Idioms & Phrases • Topic 4 of 4

Idioms in Context

When an idiom appears inside a sentence, the surrounding words confirm its meaning — use them. In the substitution format, replace the idiom with its plain meaning and check the sentence still makes sense.

Let the sentence confirm the meaning

Context narrows a close choice. "After months of work, finishing the report was a piece of cake" — the contrast with "months of work" tells you the task became easy.

The swap test. Replace the idiom with each option's plain meaning and read the sentence aloud in your head. Only the meaning that keeps the sentence sensible is correct — this decides between two tempting options.

✅ Solved examples

1. "He passed the exam without studying — it was a piece of cake." Meaning of the idiom here?
It was very easy.
2. "She finally spilled the beans about the surprise." Meaning?
She revealed the secret.
3. "They had to bite the bullet and pay the fine." Meaning?
They endured something unpleasant.
4. "The new phone cost an arm and a leg." Meaning?
It was very expensive.

✏️ Practice — try these, take hints as needed

1. "Let's break the ice with a quick game." Meaning?
Start socially.
—
—
To ease initial tension / start interaction
2. "He burns the midnight oil before exams." Meaning?
Late study.
—
—
Works late into the night
3. "Don't let the cat out of the bag." Meaning?
Keep quiet.
—
—
Don't reveal the secret
4. "We see him once in a blue moon." Meaning?
Frequency.
—
—
Very rarely
5. "She hit the nail on the head." Meaning?
Accuracy.
—
—
Was exactly right

📝 Topic test — 8 questions

Auto-graded with full solutions; saved to your dashboard. Use the calculator and formula sheet (top-right) any time.

Loading questions…
← Proverbs Take the chapter test →