Idioms and phrases MCQs

Practice Idioms and Phrases MCQs with answers and detailed explanations. Learn the meanings, usage and interpretation of commonly used English idioms and phrases through multiple choice questions designed for SSC, Railway, Banking, UPSC, JKSSB, Police, Teaching and other competitive exams.

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Question #1 Report Error
Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom: 'A bolt from the blue'.
A. A planned event
B. A blue sky
C. A sudden shock or surprise
D. A storm

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
It means a sudden and unexpected event or shock.

This question belongs to: English Idioms and phrases
Question #2 Report Error
Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom: 'A bone of contention'.
A. A bone structure
B. A source of bone
C. A matter of dispute
D. A healthy argument

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
It refers to a subject or issue over which people disagree.

This question belongs to: English Idioms and phrases
Question #3 Report Error
Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom: 'A dark horse'.
A. A little-known person who wins unexpectedly
B. A slow runner
C. A well-known champion
D. A black horse

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
It describes someone who becomes successful unexpectedly.

This question belongs to: English Idioms and phrases
Question #4 Report Error
Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom: 'A dime a dozen'.
A. A dozen items
B. Worth a dime
C. Very common
D. Extremely rare

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
It means something very common and of little value.

This question belongs to: English Idioms and phrases
Question #5 Report Error
Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom: 'A fish out of water'.
A. A person feeling uncomfortable in unfamiliar surroundings
B. An aquatic creature
C. A fish on land
D. A person comfortable in any situation

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
It describes someone who is out of their usual environment.

This question belongs to: English Idioms and phrases
Question #6 Report Error
Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom: 'A hard nut to crack'.
A. A difficult problem or person
B. An easy task
C. A soft shell
D. A nutritious nut

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
It means something or someone difficult to understand or deal with.

This question belongs to: English Idioms and phrases
Question #7 Report Error
Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom: 'A red letter day'.
A. A memorable and joyful day
B. A day with red letters
C. A day of mourning
D. A normal working day

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
It denotes a special, happy, and important day.

This question belongs to: English Idioms and phrases
Question #8 Report Error
Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom: 'A storm in a teacup'.
A. A serious storm
B. A tea party
C. A weather phenomenon
D. A big fuss about a small matter

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
It means a lot of anger or worry about something unimportant.

This question belongs to: English Idioms and phrases
Question #9 Report Error
Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom: 'A white elephant'.
A. A rare white animal
B. A costly but useless possession
C. A powerful vehicle
D. An auspicious gift

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
It describes an expensive item that is a burden to maintain.

This question belongs to: English Idioms and phrases
Question #10 Report Error
Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom: 'A wild goose chase'.
A. Chasing wild geese
B. A futile search or pursuit
C. A successful hunt
D. A bird-watching trip

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
It refers to a hopeless and useless search.

This question belongs to: English Idioms and phrases