Idioms and Phrases Questions for SBI PO Pre, IBPS PO Pre,

LIC AAO, RBI Assistant and other Competitive Exams

Directions: In each of the questions below, a phrase is followed by five sentences with some part of it as
bold. You have to identify the sentence in which the bold part can be replaced by the given bold phrase
to make the sentence grammatically and contextually correct.

1. Make common cause with

A. I need to figure out how to fit the piano and the bookshelf in this room.
B. Environment protesters have parted ways with the local people to stop the establishment of the
factory.
C. The police were acting on a tip from an informer and caught the gang red-handed.
D. The crowd backed away when the man pulled out a knife and most of them cried for help.
E. You should always back up important files and documents so that you don't lose all your work if
something goes wrong.

2. Bottle up

A. She bubbled over with joy when she heard her exam results.
B. She bounced off her feelings even though she was furious with them and kept quiet.
C. She took a two-week course to brush up her Spanish before she went to Spain.
D. After the scandal, the politician tried to buff up his public image.
E. Jennie burnt out after ten years working as a futures broker and went to live in the country.

3. Cave in

A. The government has refused to chase down despite the protests and demonstrations.
B. Most of my make-up wore off before I got to the party.
C. Our cat turned up after we put posters up all over the neighbourhood.
D. We heard the news as soon as we switched on the car radio.
E. They hammered out their differences and got the contract signed.

4. Bring around

A. It took me ages to bring him along to my point of view.

B. The changes to the law were brought about by the government after the Supreme Court directive.
C. He breezed into the room and switched the TV on.
D. The supermarkets have branched out into banking.
E. The tension had been building up and it boiled over in the meeting.

5. Go over

A. I tried to get my point across to the judge but she wouldn’t listen.
B. The company will have to close if it can’t get over the new regulations.
C. Please get ahead of your answers before you submit your test
D. They're finding it increasingly difficult to get by since their daughter was born.
E. It’s time to do away with all of these old tax records.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
6. Beast of burden

A. The child is really nuts about his new friends in the school though his parents are not very excited
about.
B. There is no point discussing this matter now since it is like beating a dead horse.
C. I don’t want to be your big cheese and you have to deal with your problems on your own only.
D. Being in the birthday suit is the most comfortable thing ever that I have done in my life.
E. Stop beating around the bush and come to the main point without wasting much time.

7. Actions speak louder than words

A. By coming to the party, he added insult to injury since he was not expected to be present in the
party.
B. He decided everything at the drop of a hat without giving much thought to the consequences.
C. Rahul is the apple of the eye of boos and he always favours Rahul over other employees in all
matters.
D. Let him say anything regarding the merger of the companies, it is evident that he is responsible for
the merger since all the rage.
E. The new bungalow cost him an arm and a leg though he decided to go ahead with the decision to
purchase it with cash.

8. A dime a dozen

A. Since I have got a lot on my plate now, I won’t be able to devote my time to anything else now
B. All the orphan children of the rescue home had a field day yesterday at the amusement park.
C. A little bird told me that some of the new employees are not as honest as they show themselves to
be.
D. Such actors are aces in the hole in Mumbai and that is why they do not get jobs here.
E. Could we have a penny for your thoughts? We really need your expert opinion regarding settling
this issue.

9. Shoot in the foot

A. I think the boss has a bit of an axe to grind with you over the way the account was handled.
B. He'd have a real shot at winning the election if he didn't keep calling himself names with such
inflammatory remarks.
C. The pep talk was a real shot in the arm for all the guys.
D. I never got the big promotion and have been playing second fiddle ever since.
E. The CEO was quick to call the junior board member to heel.

10. A white elephant

A. At first, Vikas was excited to inherit the bungalow, but it soon proved to be blessing in disguise.
B. The regional council must decide whether a private toll bridge is better than no bridge at all - it's
a Hobson's choice.
C. Ms. Neeta was suddenly viewed as a dark horse when she displayed her beautiful sculptures at the
art fair.
D. They have an eagle eye for spotting wildlife.
E. It was Dutch courage that made the football fan attack the policeman.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
Directions: Identify the words that are similar in meaning to the phrase in bold. If none of option
conveys the correct meaning, mark (E) as your answer. The options do not necessarily need to be
grammatically correct.

11. After breaking his hand, Gordon’s dream to play professional basketball went up in smoke.

A. to accomplish B. Destroyed C. hopeful

D. Continue E. None of the above

12. She cooks and bakes when she needs to let off some steam.

A. get rid of strong emotion B. to enjoy C. to be alone

D. to play sport E. None of the above

13. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asked US President Donald Trump not to withdraw from Syria and
to work to remove Iran from the Syrian arena, but Trump gave him the cold shoulder.

A. To hurry B. To take something lightly C. To ignore somone

D. To disapprove of something E. None of the above

14. In the Economic Survey 2017-18, it was said that the government’s priority should be to flush farmers
out of agriculture and adding insult to the injury, the Survey also quoted Dr. Ambedkar warning about the
dangers of romanticising rural India.

A. To avenge something B. to make a bad situation worse.

C. To divorce D. Willing to deceive E. None of the above

15. Creativity is something that anybody who is remotely original has to guard very fiercely and
passionately because people just want you to be run-of-the-mill.

A. Remarkable B. Expensive C. Unlicensed

D. Ordinary E. None of the above

16. The picture he painted of the business is a far cry from the perception the shareholders had before the
meeting.

A. Dedicated yet a failure B. Very different C. Astounding success

D. Caring and sincere E. None of these

17. Opposition leaders have criticized the government for failing to rein in rising fuel prices which have
now turned into a political hot potato.

A. Interesting issue B. Justified matter C. Court case

D. Burning topic E. None of these

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
18. Housing in the city these days costs an arm and a leg.

A. Very expensive B. Uphill task C. Tiresome job

D. Fatal E. None of these

19. The company already does not have the required number of employees and with this project it has
finally bitten off more than it can chew.

A. Difficult task B. Impossible job C. Impractical job

D. In detail E. None of these

20. Indian politicians love to stage dharnas or sit-ins at the drop of a hat, quite often taking their political
melodrama to ridiculous levels.

A. Immediately B. Instantly C. Diligently

D. Factual E. None of these

Directions: You are required to identify the words that are contextually similar to the phrase given in
bold and mark that as your answer. If none of the option expresses the correct meaning, mark (E) as
your answer. The options do not need to be correct grammatically.

21. The investors began to smell a rat when the company ceased paying dividends and delayed the
mandatory audit.

A. Suspicion B. Deceive C. Incorrect

D. Wonder E. None of the above

22. India still attracts investors from a long-term perspective as this is still a country with a very good
entrepreneurial talent and is a low hanging fruit for smart people to grab and make money.

A. Not worthy B. Very Lucrative C. Easily achieved

D. Simple but time consuming E. None of the above

23. The Competition Commission’s inquiry into the government’s land-based transport market comes not a
moment too soon, as a succession of petitions describe the sad state of the country’s public transport
system.

A. Before needed B. Just in time C. Too late

D. Hesitating E. None of the above

24. The National Human Rights Commission is all bark and no bite as it lacks the authority to penalize
those guilty of human rights violations.

A. Impressive action B. Intimidating action C. Low on action

D. Threatening action E. None of the above

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
25. Being a student with a technological background, the concepts of balance of payments, macro
economics, statement of loss and profit, liability and assets are all Greek to me.

A. Complex B. Alienated C. Different

D. Extreme E. None of the above

26. Compliance is a necessary evil especially in a workplace where there is no prevailing culture of
integrity.

A. Essential and pleasant B. Pleasant but not urgent C. Unpleasant but essential

D. Evil and despicable E. None of the above

27. Shatrughan Sinha has cautioned actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan - who recently joined politics -
saying politics is not a bed of roses.

A. Enjoyable B. Easy C. Tough

D. Complex E. None of the above

28. The actor admitted in many interviews about how he burnt his bridges in the film world, becoming a
nightmare to work with and constantly flying off the handle.

A. To handover B. To cross the bridge C. To eliminate the possibility of conflict

D. To eliminate the possibility of return E. None of the above

29. The house party got out of hand, so we had to call the police.

A. Lack of interest B. attempt to thrash C. become abusive

D. chaotic and unmanageable E. None of the above

30. If you think you can pass the prestigious exam, then you definitely need to give it a shot.

A. try or attempt B. wait to take up C. to apply

D. go for it E. None of the above

Directions: In each of the questions given below, a phrase/idiom is given in bold followed by five
sentences with some part of it as bold. You have to identify the sentence in which the bold part can be
replaced by the given bold phrase/idiom to make the sentence grammatically and contextually correct.

31. Back down

A. We beefed up our home by having a garden built.

B. John figured on in the argument out of respect for his employer.
C. The tutor demonstrated the procedure once and then backed off.
D. I told the driver to back up as we had driven past the building.
E. The truck seemingly beat up, is in a perfect condition.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
32. Keep from

A. Gymnastics seems difficult but is fun when you keep at it.

B. Mike is smart enough to be kept down by his friends.
C. She cannot keep on smiling whenever the kid is around.
D. (D)The doctor has suggested him to keep off the medicine for some time.
E. The recipe is too good to keep to yourself.

33. Dime a dozen

A. The Indian cricket team chased down the big score because the captain is an ace in the hole.
B. Ethical hackers are a beast of burden in today’s digital world.
C. Accepting her defeat was a bitter pill to swallow.
D. The police investigated the crime with a fine-tooth comb.
E. The new Mercedes had cost him an arm and a leg.

34. Hit the road

A. The project has been delayed as they have hit a snag.

B. You have been doing a lot of hard work lately, it’s time you hit the sack
C. Being late for the class, the teacher told me to hold my horses.
D. Afghanistan holds all the aces against Bangladesh this time.
E. Vikram has the upper hand being an experienced cueist.

35. Off the cuff

A. Seeing my performance in the nets, I don’t think I would be able to make the cut.
B. Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg were neck and neck until the end.
C. The company has asked us to design an advanced engine which is off the hook.
D. Passing the exam in the first attempt is surely a long shot.
E. Arshi is over the hill yet so energetic and passionate about travelling.

36. Entered upon

A. I have no time to engage in tittle-tattle.

B. The president has just moved on another term of office
C. There is a narrow bridge ahead, so you should ease down.
D. She laid aside her knitting to rest her eyes for a moment.
E. He launched into a long series of excuses for his behaviour

37. Profit From

A. When I tried to lift the cup, the handle came off.

B. The army was pulled back from the valley after the battle
C. His protracted illness has pulled him down a lot.
D. I have immensely salvaged from her sound advice
E. He worked hard to provide for his large family.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
38. Break off

A. They coped with all their problems cheerfully.

B. Inspite of financial difficulties he held on to his dreams and was successful in the long run .
C. The talks between India and Pakistan blew over owing to the terror attacks in Jammu.
D. His brother was asked after you the other night when I met him at the party.
E. Always keep from selfish people because they can harm you anytime.

39. Think back

A. Let’s run over these lines one more time before the show.
B. I passed up the job because I am afraid of change
C. When I think over on my youth, I wish I had studied harder.
D. Mark was sick and had to miss the party, so please don’t bring it up, I don’t want him to feel bad for
missing it.
E. Anything I lose usually turns up under the couch.

40. Chase your trail

A. He played a whole bag of tricks but still could not get the information required to crack the case.
B. The teacher examined the assignment with a fine tooth comb but still could not find any fault with
the students.
C. The Government decided to do away with all kinds of direct benefit transfer programs ti8ll further
orders from the Supreme Court of India.
D. Since I have given this assignment to a new person, let us hope that he delivers the goods within
the given time.
E. The new employee has been cutting the ground from under feet but he has not been able to
impress the boss.

Directions: In each of the questions given below, a phrase is given in bold followed by five sentences
with some part of it as bold. You have to identify the sentence in which the bold part can be replaced by
the given bold phrase to make the sentence grammatically and contextually correct.

41. Go along with

A. Dave and Brad don’t really get along with each other.
B. The dance teacher advised us to keep up with the practice.
C. Joy and sorrow go hand in hand.
D. You cannot just go about with what your friends say.
E. You are requested to follow up with the progress in this regard.

42. Look over

A. We often overlook our faults and criticize others.

B. He has been asked to look about the financial affairs of the company.
C. Look out for the rain when you go out.
D. The students look up to their teacher.
E. The government has asked CBI to look into the matter.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
43. Put back

A. We need to put up to work as the deadline is fast approaching.

B. Put away laziness to make room for success.
C. Our trip to Simla was grossed out owing to the recent water crisis.
D. It is pretty difficult to put up with a person like him.
E. Since the boss is on leave, I guess we can punch out early today.

44. Hand in

A. The official was asked to hand back the tickets.

B. He handed over the report in time.
C. The police are working hand in hand with the detectives.
D. You should head back home before it starts raining.
E. The children were asked to hand out fliers for the annual function.

45. Take in

A. Roy took out on the inconspicuous meaning of the novel.

B. I have taken up on the company’s offer of negotiation.
C. The cop took out his gun seeing danger.
D. We requested the hostel warden to take us back.
E. Not every machine needs to be taken apart to repair.

46. Dropped in

A. My wife often drop off in front of T.V.

B. Talk to your brother once he had died down.
C. The e-commerce company is looking out for a delivery personnel.
D. We have got the opportunity to come out in the White House yesterday.
E. One definitely pays for one's act sooner or later.

47. Had fallen through

A. The company's strategy to cut the cost had ended up with the revised taxation rates.
B. The low profits resulted into easing off of employees.
C. The company's appeal dragged on than we expected.
D. The annual meeting to be held on 29th June is now called off.
E. This company brought up their new advertisment after the directions from the management.

48. Iron out the turbulence

A. The minister got vexed when the leader of opposition cut in between.
B. The officials handed in their remarks over the issue.
C. The two countries met in a summit to look for the upheavel.
D. The Defence minister filled in his counterpart regarding the events happened so far in the Kashmir
valley.
E. The government must take out some rules to enhance Foreign investments.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
49. Rule out your chance

A. This will hold on you to go abroad.

B. Grofers is giving away grocery to its premium customers as a part of their month end sale.
C. Some people discover one or the other way to get around the tax laws.
D. The company will work no longer as it run out of funds.
E. He will set off for America tomorrow morning.

50. Told her off

A. Watch out on the road while driving.

B. Her teacher turned her down for not performing well.
C. This hectic work out worn me out.
D. Put on the lights before going upstairs.
E. This fellow always relied on me to seek guidance.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
Correct answers:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

B B A A C C D D B A B A C B D B D A E B A C B C A

26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50

C B D D A B C B C C B D C C E D B C B A D A C A B

Explanation:

1. Make common cause with: work together in order to achieve something that both groups want.

Option A: Figure out (Phrasal Verb): to understand or solve something. This has been used correctly
in the sentence.

Option B: Parted Ways (Phrasal Verb): To separate or depart (from someone); to stop associating
(with someone). This has not been used correctly in the sentence as it does not suit the context. Thus
it can be replaced by the given idiom 'make common cause with'.

Option C: Acting on (Phrasal Verb): To take action that is strongly influenced by certain information
or advice. This has been used correctly in the sentence.

Option D: Backed away (Phrasal Verb): To retreat on a particular idea or course of action. This has
been used correctly in the sentence.

Option E: Back up (Phrasal Verb): To save copies of computer files in another place. This has been
used correctly in the sentence.

Hence, option B is the correct choice.

2. Bottle up (Phrasal Verb): to not express your feelings.

Option A: Bubbled over (Phrasal Verb):become very excited. This has been used correctly in the
sentence.

Option B: Bounced off(Phrasal Verb): to test ideas. This is not used correctly in the sentence as it
does not suit the context. Thus it can be replaced by the given phrasal verb 'bottle up'.

Option C: Brush up (Phrasal Verb): Improve a skill quickly. This has been used correctly in the
sentence.

Option D:Buff up (Phrasal Verb): Improve. This has been used correctly in the sentence.

Option E: Burnt out (Phrasal Verb): Lose enthusiasm and energy to continue in a demanding job.

This has been used correctly in the sentence.

Hence, option B is the correct choice.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
3. Cave in (Phrasal Verb): Stop resisting or refusing.

Option A: Chase down(Phrasal Verb): Try hard to find or get something. This is not used correctly in
the sentence as it does not suit the context. Thus it can be replaced by the given phrasal verb 'cave
in'.

Option B: Wore off(Phrasal Verb): fade away. This has been used correctly in the sentence.

Option C: Turned up(Phrasal Verb): appear suddenly. This has been used correctly in the sentence.

Option D: Switched on(Phrasal Verb): start the energy flow, turn on . This has been used correctly in
the sentence.

Option E: Hammered out (Phrasal Verb): Negotiate and reach an agreement. This has been used
correctly in the sentence.

Hence, option A is the correct choice.

4. Bring around(Phrasal Verb): Persuade or convince someone.

Option A: Bring along(Phrasal Verb):Bring someone or something to a certain place. This is not used
correctly in the sentence as it does not suit the context. Thus it can be replaced by the given phrasal
verb 'bring around'.

Option B: Brought about(Phrasal Verb): Make something happen. This has been used correctly in the
sentence.

Option C: Breezed into(Phrasal Verb): Enter a place quickly. This has been used correctly in the
sentence.

Option D: Branched out(Phrasal Verb): Move into a different area of business, etc. This has been used
correctly in the sentence.

Option E: Boiled over(Phrasal Verb): When people lose their tempers and things get nasty. This has
been used correctly in the sentence.

Hence, option A is the correct choice.

5. Go over(Phrasal Verb): Review, Revise, look at something.

Option A: Get across(Phrasal Verb): communicate, make understandable. This has been used
correctly in the sentence.

Option B: Get over(Phrasal Verb): overcome a problem. This has been used correctly in the sentence.

Option C: Get ahead of(Phrasal Verb): Move in front of. This is not used correctly in the sentence as it
does not suit the context. Thus it can be replaced by the given phrasal verb 'go over'.

Option D: Get by(Phrasal Verb): Have just enough money to live on. This has been used correctly in
the sentence.

Option E: Do away with(Phrasal Verb): discard. This has been used correctly in the sentence.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
 Hence, option C is the correct choice.

6. Beast of Burden (Idiom): Someone who carries the problems of others.

Nuts about (Idiom): Being very excited about something. The given idiom has been used in the
correct sense and no replacement is required to be carried out in this sentence.

Beating a dead horse (Idiom): Discussing about an issue that is beyond resolution. The idiom has
been used in the correct sense in the given statement.

Big Cheese (Idiom): An important person. In the given statement, this idiom is not correct since it
means somebody who can carry the problems of others. The given idiom beast of burden should be
used in the given statement rather to imply the intended meaning.

The birthday suit (Idiom): Naked. The idiom has been used in the correct sense in the given
statement.

Beating around the bush (Idiom): Avoid talking about something specifically. This idiom has been
used in the statement in the correct manner and no replacement is required in the given sentence.

This makes option C the correct choice among the given options.

7. Actions speak louder than words (Idiom): Judge someone by what he does rather than by what he
says.

Add insult to injury (Idiom): Worsen an unfavorable situation. The idiom has been used in the correct
sense in the given statement and no replacement is required in the statement.

At the drop of a hat (Idiom): Instantly. This idiom has also been used correctly in the given
statement.

Apple of the eye (Idiom): Favorite of somebody. This idiom is correct in this statement and no
replacement is required in this sentence.

All the rage (Idiom): Popular. This has not been used correctly in the given statement since it is about
judging someone by actions rather than by words. The given idiom actions speak louder than
words can be used here in the correct sense.

An arm and a leg (Idiom): Very expensive. This idiom has been used correctly in the given statement
and therefore no replacement is required for this idiom also.

This makes option D the correct choice among the given options.

8. A dime a dozen (Idiom): Very commonplace.

A lot on my plate (Idiom): Being very busy with many things. The idiom has been used correctly in
the given statement.

A field day (Idiom): An enjoyable day. This idiom has also been used correctly in the given statement.

A little bird told me (Idiom): Little secret about something. This idiom is correct in its usage in the
given context.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
 Ace in the hole (Idiom): A hidden strength. This has not been used correctly in the given statement
and it has to be replaced. The given idiom A dime a dozen can be used in this context to imply the
intended meaning of the given statement.

A penny for your thoughts (Idiom): Asking for advice. This idiom has also been used correctly in the
given context and no replacement is required here.

This makes option D the correct choice among the given options.

9. Shoot in the foot (Idiom) : to damage or impede one's own plans, progress, or actions through
foolish actions or words.

Have an axe to grind (Idiom): have a private reason for doing or being involved in something.

Ex. He has no political axe to grind.

The given idiom has been used correctly in the sentence given as option A.

Call names (Idiom) : to mock or disparage one with rude or offensive names.

The given idiom doesn’t make any sense in the sentence given as option B. In place of this, the idiom
‘shoot in the foot’ can be used here to make the sentence contextually correct.

Shot in the arm (Idiom) : Something that revitalizes, reinvigorates, or encourages someone or
something.

The idiom has been used correctly in the sentence given as option C.

Play second fiddle to (Idiom) :

To have a subordinate, lesser, or smaller role, position, or part (in something)

The idiom has been used correctly in the sentence given as option D.

Call (someone) to heel (Idiom) : To force someone to obey one's wishes or commands; to make
someone act in accordance with one's authority.

The idiom has been used correctly in the sentence given as option E.

Evidently, option B is the correct answer.

10. A white elephant (Idiom) : A possession that is useless or troublesome, especially one that is
expensive to maintain or difficult to dispose of.

Blessing in disguise (Idiom) : An apparent misfortune that eventually has good results.

The idiom isn’t contextually correct in the sentence given as option A as usage of the conjunction
‘but’ brings contradiction of thoughts. In place of this, the idiom ‘a white elephant’ fits in well.

Hobson’s choice (Idiom) : A choice of taking what is available or nothing at all.

The idiom is used correctly in the sentence given as option B.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
 A dark horse (Idiom) : Someone who surprises others with their skills or talents.

The idiom is used correctly in the sentence given as option C.

An eagle eye (Idiom) : Excellent eyesight, especially for something in particular.

The idiom is used correctly in the sentence given as option D.

Dutch courage (Idiom) : Unusual or artificial courage arising from the influence of alcohol.

The idiom is used correctly in the sentence given as option E.

Evidently, option A is the correct answer.

11. Go up in smoke: be destroyed or ruined

Example: Without a scholarship, her dreams of college are likely to go up in smoke.

As per the meaning above, only option B is apt.

Hence, option B is correct.

12. Let off steam: Get rid of pent-up energy or strong emotion.

Example: The kids can let off steam in the gardens while mum and dad relax for a while.

As per the meaning above, only Option B is incorrect. The others do not make sense.

Hence, option A is correct.

13. Give someone the cold shoulder: Ignore someone

Eg: Ravi wanted to join hands with Dev but it is likely the latter gave him the cold shoulder.

As per the meaning above, Option C is the most suitable answer. The others are incorrect.

Hence, option C is correct.

14. To add insult to injury: act in a way that makes a bad situation worse.

Example : Employees were forced to work longer hours, and to add insult to injury, the company
decided not to give pay raises.

As per the meaning above, Only option B, to make a bad situation worse, fits in.

Hence option B is correct.

15. Run-of-the-mill means lacking unusual or special aspects; ordinary.

Example: I was just a very average run-of-the-mill kind of student.

As per the meaning above, only option D ordinary fits in with the others not fitting in well.

Hence, option D is correct.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
16. A far cry means that it is very different from what is being perceived.

‘Astounding success’ refers to very commendable action by someone. The other options are
completely out of context.

Hence, Option B is the correct answer.

17. A hot potato refers to any burning topic regarding which people are talking about and which is
usually disputed. ‘Burning topic’ refers to something that is very much talked about in the present
context. Other options are completely out of context in the given question.

Hence, option D is the correct answer.

18. If something costs an arm and a leg that means that it is very expensive.

‘Uphill task’ means something very difficult to be completed.

‘Tiresome job’ refers to something which is tiring to do.

‘Fatal’ means very dangerous.

Hence, option A is the correct answer.

19. If you bite off more than you can chew it means that you have taken a commitment that you cannot
fulfill with your existing capacity.

‘Difficult task’ means that something which cannot be done easily.

‘Impossible task’ means something that cannot be done.

‘Impractical job’ refers to something that has no pragmatic value.

The other option does not fit in the given context.

Hence, option E is the correct choice as none of the given options implies the meaning of the phrase
in bold.

20. ‘At the drop of a hat’ means without any hesitation or instantly without giving much thought before
doing something.

‘Immediately’ is close but it does not explicitly mean doing something without giving any thought.
‘Diligently’ and ‘factual’ are completely out of context in the given question.

Hence, Option B is the correct answer.

21. Smell a rat: Suspect that something is not right.

Eg: When he made that offer, I smelt a rat. It sounded too good to be true.

From the meaning above, options B and C are incorrect. Out of A and D, A is a better choice
as wonder means the desire to know something; feel curious.

Hence, option A is correct.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
22. Low hanging fruit: a goal that can be easily reached/ something that is easy to take advantage of.

Eg: what the present government has done on the economic front is the plucking of low hanging
fruits by and large.

As per the meaning, the only option that fits in is option C.

Hence, option C is correct.

23. Not a moment too soon: in the nick of time, only just in time.

Eg: The rescue arrived not a moment too soon.

As per the meaning above, the correct option is B. The inquiry has come just at the right time.

The other options are incorrect.

Hence, option B is correct.

24. All bark and no bite: Full of talk that is more threatening or impressive than that which one can or
will actually do.

Eg: He always threatens to call the police if I don't stay off his lawn, but he's all bark and no bite.

The most suitable option thus is C. The rest do not convey the correct meaning.

Hence, option C is correct.

25. All Greek To Me: When something is extremely difficult to understand due to being new and
complex.

From the meaning given above, option A is the best fit here.

Eg: Students of economics are often faced with a plethora of Greek symbols leading many to despair
“it's all Greek to me”.

Alienated means separated and is incorrect.

Hence, option A is correct.

26. Necessary evil: something unpleasant that must be done in order to achieve a goal or objective.

Eg: Getting a good education is a necessary evil to get a chance at a better life.

As per the meaning above, option C is the suitable answer here. The others are incorrect.

Hence, option C is correct.

27. Bed of roses: used in reference to a situation or activity that is comfortable or easy.

Eg: Life is definitely not a bed of roses- we are all fighting battles, which nobody else really knows of.

As per the meaning stated above, only option B fits in.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
 Hence, option B is correct.

28. Burn one's bridges means to eliminate the possibility of return or retreat.

Example: burn one's bridges : If you get mad and quit your job, you'll be burning your bridges behind
you.

As per the meaning above, only option D- to eliminate the possibility of return- matches the context.

Hence, option D is correct.

29. To get out of hand means to become chaotic and unmanageable.

Example : The costs have continued to increase, and now seem to be getting out of hand.

As per the meaning above, options A,B and C are not apt & can be ruled out.

Only option D matches with the context.

Hence, option D is correct.

30. Give a shot : to try or attempt to do (something)

Example: You should give painting a shot.

As per the meaning above, Only option A with the context fits in well.

Hence, option A is correct.

31. Back down: It means to withdraw your position

Ex: Seeing his friends arrive, the bully backed down.

Beef up: It means to make changes or amendments

It has been used correctly in option A

Figure on: It means to expect or plan for something

In the sentence B, the phrase – figured on makes no sense and back down is a perfect fit, thus the
answer.

Back off: It means to withdraw your position

It has been used correctly in option C

Back up: It means to support, to drive backwards or to make a copy

It has been used correctly in option D

Beat up: It describes an object in a bad condition due to overuse.

It has been used correctly in option E

Hence, option B is correct.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
32. Keep from: It means to stop someone from doing something or to prevent or resist something

Ex: Nothing can keep Manav from watching soccer.

Keep at: It means to continue an activity

It has been used correctly in option A.

Keep down: It means to lower something or to stop someone from achieving their full potential.

It has been used correctly in option B.

Keep on: It means to continue an activity

The sentence C is grammatically correct but illogical. Here, keep from would be the right
replacement.

Keep off: It means to stay away from, avoid or abstain

It has been used correctly in option D.

Keep to: It means to stay within limits or to keep any information secret.

It has been used correctly in option E.

Hence, option B is correct.

33. A dime a dozen means commonly and easily available anywhere

Ex: Spies are a dime a dozen in this city.

An ace in the hole: It means a hidden strength or advantage

It has been used correctly in option A.

Beast of burden: It is used for someone who carries others’ problems.

The sentence in option B is grammatically correct but is illogical. Here, a dime a dozen should replace
the given idiom.

A bitter pill: It means something unpleasant that must be accepted.

It has been used correctly in option C.

A fine-tooth comb: It means to do something with minute precision and in detail

It has been used correctly in option D.

To cost an arm and a leg: It is used to denote something very expensive.

It has been used correctly in option E.

Hence, option B is correct.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
34. Hit the road: It means to leave.

Ex: As soon as the whistle blew, the coach told the players to hit the road.

Hit the snag: It means to face a sudden problem.

It has been used correctly in option A.

Hit the sack: It means to go to sleep.

It has been used correctly in option B.

Hold your horses: It means to be patient.

Option C is grammatically correct but contextually and logically incorrect. Hit the road would be a
perfect replacement in this case.

Hold all the aces: It means high probability to win.

It has been used correctly in option D.

Have the upper hand: It means to have a better chance of winning.

It has been used correctly in option E.

Hence, option C is correct.

35. Off the cuff: It means improvised.

Ex: The latest Android version is off the cuff.

Make the cut: It means to be chosen or be selected.

It has been used correctly in option A.

Neck and neck: It means very close.

It has been used correctly in option B.

Off the hook: It means to escape obligation.

Option C is incorrect and illogical. Here, off the hook should be replaced with off the cuff.

Long shot: It means a difficult thing to accomplish.

It has been used correctly in option D.

Over the hill: It is used to denote old age.

It has been used correctly in option E.

Hence, option C is correct.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
36. Entered upon(Phrasal Verb): begin something , make a start on something. We have to find the
statement wherein the phrase has been used incorrectly and can be replaced witht the given phrase.

Option A- Engage in(Phrasal Verb): to cause somebody to take part in or be occupied with
something. This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option C- Ease down(Phrasal Verb):reduce speed. This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option D-Laid aside(Phrasal Verb): put down or place something to one side. This is used correctly
in the sentence.

Option E-Launched into(Phrasal Verb):begin a long involved speech often in a vigorous way. This is
used correctly in the sentence.

Option B- Moved on(Phrasal Verb): go or cause to leave somewhere, progress. This is not used
correctly in the sentence as it does not suit the context. Thus it can be replaced by the given phrasal
verb 'entered upon' in the following case.

Hence option B is the correct answer.

37. Profit from: benefit from or be helped by something. We have to find the statement wherein the
phrase has been used incorrectly and can be replaced witht the given phrase.

Option A- came off (Phrasal Verb): become detached or separated. This is used correctly in the
sentence.

Option B- pulled back(Phrasal Verb)retreat or withdraw. This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option C-pulled down(Phrasal Verb): weaken somebody. This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option D-salvaged from(Phrasal Verb):rescue or save something worthwhile from a situation which
has suffered damage. This is not used correctly in the sentence as it does not suit the context. Thus it
can be replaced by the given phrasal verb 'profit from' in the following case.

Option E- provide for(Phrasal Verb): supply somebody what he needs especially the basic amenities
of life. This is used correctly in the sentence.

Hence option D is the correct answer.

38. Break off (Phrasal Verb): Come to an end unsuccessfully. We have to find the statement wherein the
phrase has been used incorrectly and can be replaced witht the given phrase.

Option A- Cope with (Phrasal Verb): Manage. This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option B-hold on(Phrasal Verb):carry on,persist. This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option D-asked after(Phrasal Verb):ask about welfare, inquire after. This is used correctly in the
sentence.

Option E- Keep from(Phrasal Verb): refrain from not mix with. This is used correctly in the sentence.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
 Option C- blow over(Phrasal Verb): pass off without harm.This is not used correctly in the sentence as
it does not suit the context. Thus it can be replaced by the given phrasal verb 'break off' in the
following case.

Hence option C is the correct answer.

39. Option A- Run over(Phrasal Verb): rehearse, review. This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option B- Passed up(Phrasal Verb): decline (usually something good). This is used correctly in the
sentence.

Option C-Think over(Phrasal Verb): consider . This is not used correctly in the sentence as it does not
suit the context. Thus it can be replaced by the given phrasal verb 'think back' in the following case.

Option D-Bring Up(Phrasal Verb): to mention something. This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option E-Turns up(Phrasal Verb): When something that was lost is found unexpectedly. This is used
correctly in the sentence.

Hence option C is the correct answer.

40. Chase your trail (Idiom): Spending a lot of time and energy in doing a lot of things but ultimately
achieving too little

Whole bag of tricks (Idiom): Trying all the clever means to achieve something. The given sentence is
correct with this idiom.

Fine tooth comb (Idiom): In a detailed manner. This idiom has been used correctly in the given
sentence.

Do away with (Phrasal Verb): Cancelling something or eliminating something. The sentence is correct
with the given phrasal verb since it has been used correctly in the given statement.

Delivers the goods (Idiom): Doing what is expected or promised. The sentence is correct with this
idiom in place and that is why this idiom cannot be replaced.

Cut the ground from under the feet (Idiom): To do something to weaken the position of the other
person. This idiom has not been used in the correct sense in the given sentence whereas chase yo0ur
trail can be used in the sentence to imply the correct intended meaning.

This makes option E the correct choice among the given options.

41. Go along with: It means to accept, agree, and follow.

Ex: Our employees go along with the company’s values.

Get along with: It means to have good interpersonal relations with someone.

It has been used correctly in option A

To keep up with: It means to continue.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
 It has been used correctly in option B.

Go hand in hand: It means to go together, or complement each other.

It has been used correctly in option C.

Go about with: It means to do something one is habitual of doing.

In sentence D, it is irrelevant, hence it should be replaced by go along with to make the sentence
contextually correct.

Follow up with: It means to stay updated with.

It has been used correctly in option E.

Option D is hence the correct answer.

42. Look over: It means to examine or inspect something.

Ex: Amit looked over the reports and developed a presentation.

Overlook: It means to ignore.

It has been used correctly in option A.

Look about: It means to search for something.

In option B, the subject is clearly not searching for anything. Here, look over fits perfectly.

Look out: It is used for caution or to alert someone.

It has been used correctly in option C.

Look up to: It is used to show respect or admiration towards someone.

It has been used correctly in option D.

Look into: It means to examine the facts about a problem or situation.

It has been used correctly in option E.

Option B is hence the correct answer.

43. Put back: It is used to denote procrastination or postponement.

Ex: Elections have put back the development in the area.

Put up to: It means to encourage or persuade someone to do something.

It has been used correctly in option A.

Put away: It means to refrain or stay away from or keep away.

It has been used correctly in option B.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
 Gross out: It means to be disgusted with someone or something.

In option C, gross out makes no sense. Here, put back would be used.

Put up with: It means to tolerate or accept someone/ something.

It has been used correctly in option D.

Punch out: It is used to denote the time when you leave office or other formal place.

The sentence in option E is correct.

Clearly, option C is correct.

44. Hand in: It means to give or submit something to a person of authority.

Ex: Hand in the audit report in due time.

Hand back: It means to return something to the real owner.

It has been used correctly in option A.

Hand over: It means to pass responsibilities to someone else.

In option B, hand in should be used as the sentence involves submission of a formal report.

Hand in hand: Not to be confused with hand in, it denotes two complementary entities closely
associated or connected.

It has been used correctly in option C.

Head back: It means to return to the origin.

It has been used correctly in option D.

Hand out: It means to distribute something for free.

It has been used correctly in option E.

Option B is hence the correct answer.

45. Take in: It means to understand or accept someone/ something.

Ex: The poet took in the emotions of the flood victims.

Take out on: It means to direct your anger over someone or something when you are upset or angry
over something else.

In option A, take out on is irrelevant. Here, take in fits perfectly.

Take up on: It means to accept an offer or invitation.

It has been used correctly in option B.

Take out: It means to remove something from a contained space, to withdraw or eliminate.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
 It has been used correctly in option C.

Take back: It means to return or accept something back.

It has been used correctly in option D.

Take apart: It means to separate or disconnect parts of an object.

It has been used correctly in option E.

Option A is hence the correct answer.

46. Drop in (Phrasal verb): To visit someone.

Option A - Drop off (Phrasal verb): To fell asleep or to deliver something to someone.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option B - Die down (Phrasal verb): To calm down.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option C - Look out for (Phrasal verb): To look carefully at people or things around you in order to try
to find a particular person or thing

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option E - Pay for (Phrasal verb): To suffer because of something done in the past.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option D- Come out in (Phrasal verb): To develop illness.

This is not used correctly in the sentence as it does not suit the context. Thus it can be replaced by
the given phrasal verb 'drop in' in the following sense.

We have got the opportunity to drop in (visit) the White House yesterday.

Hence option D is the correct answer.

47. Fall through (Phrasal verb): Fail or doesn't happen.

Option B - Ease off (Phrasal verb): To reduce.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option C - Drag on (Phrasal verb): To last for a longer period.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option D- Call off (Phrasal verb): To cancel.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option E - Bring up (Phrasal verb): To stop something suddenly.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
 This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option A - End up (Phrasal verb): To finally reach at place.

This is not used correctly in the sentence, as it is irrelevant with the context. Therefore it must be
replaced with the phrase " had fallen through" to make the sentence contextually as well as
grammatically correct.

The company's strategy to cut the cost had fallen through with the revised taxation rates.

Hence option A is the correct answer.

48. Iron out the turbulence (Idiom): To resolve conflicts.

Option A - Cut in (Phrasal verb): To reduce.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option B- Hand in (Phrasal verb): To submit.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option D- Fill in (Phrasal verb): To give someone details about something.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option E - Take out (Phrasal verb): To remove something.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option C - Look for (Phrasal verb): To search for or try to find something.

This is not used correctly in the sentence.as it is irrelevant with the context. Therefore it must be
replaced with the phrase " iron out turbulence" to make the sentence contextually as well as
grammatically correct.

The two countries met in a summit to iron out the turbulence. (resolve conflict)

Hence option C is the correct answer.

49. Rule out (Phrasal verb): To eliminate.

Option B - Give away (Phrasal verb): To give something for free.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option C - Get around(Phrasal verb): To solve the problem.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option D- Run out(Phrasal verb): To have shortage of something.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
 Option E - Set off (Phrasal verb): To start a journey.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option A - Hold on (Phrasal verb): To hold someone tightly.

This is not used correctly in the sentence, as it is irrelevant with the context. Therefore it must be
replaced with the phrase " rule out your chance" to make the sentence contextually as well as
grammatically correct.

This will rule out your chance(eliminate your chance) to go abroad.

Hence option A is the correct answer.

50. Tell off (Phrasal verb): To reprimand severely.

Option A - Watch out (Phrasal verb): To be careful.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option C - Wear out (Phrasal verb): To be tired.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option D- Put on (Phrasal verb): Switch on.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option E - Rely on (Phrasal verb): To count on someone or to depend upon someone.

This is used correctly in the sentence.

Option B - Turn down (Phrasal verb): To refuse.

This is not used correctly in the sentence, as it is irrelevant with the context. Therefore it must be
replaced with the phrase " told her off" to make the sentence contextually as well as grammatically
correct.

Her teacher told her off(criticize) for not performing well.

Hence option B is the correct answer.

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https: / / /#

SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us