Idioms #1

When the politician was caught stealing from the taxpayers, everyone thought he would receive a severe punishment, but all he got was a slap on the wrist.

What is the meaning of this idiom?

• a harsh penalty
• a public apology
• a lengthy prison sentence
• a mild punishment

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We thought that our neighbor’s, the Jones family, were rich beyond our wildest dreams, but it turns out that we’re all in the same boat.

What is the meaning of this idiom?

• Everyone is facing the same challenges or difficulties.
• Everyone is wealthy and successful.
• Only the Jones family is struggling financially.
• We are all in a luxurious situation.

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If Kim thinks that I’m going to let her copy my math homework, she’s barking up the wrong tree.

What is the meaning of this idiom?

• to take a break from studying
• to pursue a mistaken or misguided course of action
• to seek help from a friend
• to make a correct assumption

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The Vikings thought that they would easily beat the other team, but when it was tied with a minute left in the fourth quarter, they knew that this game was really coming down to the wire.

What is the meaning of this idiom?

• The situation is very close to being decided.
• The situation is completely hopeless.
• The game is already decided.
• The teams are evenly matched throughout the game.

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I thought Janet would be a good worker, but it turns out that she can’t cut the mustard.

What is the meaning of this idiom?

• to take a break
• to meet expectations or perform satisfactorily
• to work independently
• to exceed expectations

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Tom wanted to get down to brass tacks, but the lawyer kept chatting about the weather.

What is the meaning of this idiom?

• To focus on the essential details.
• To avoid discussing important matters.
• To make small talk about trivial subjects.
• To procrastinate on making decisions.

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After playing for three straight quarters, the quarterback was running out of steam.

What is the meaning of this idiom?

• playing at a faster pace
• gaining strength and energy
• taking a break to recover
• becoming exhausted or losing energy

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Don’t get so worked up, buddy. She’s only pulling your leg.

What is the meaning of this idiom?

• To encourage someone to take action.
• To tease or joke with someone.
• To express deep sympathy for someone.
• To give someone a serious warning.

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Jimbo was too tired to finish the assignment, so he decided to hit the hay.

What is the meaning of this idiom?

• to go to bed or to sleep
• to go for a walk
• to start a new project
• to take a break

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Alan was excited when he found out that he would have his own front row parking spot at the university, but that was just the icing on the cake.

What is the meaning of this idiom?

• A situation that is already bad but gets worse.
• A benefit that is not related to the main situation.
• A reward that is only temporary and not enjoyable.
• an additional benefit to an already good situation

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