Test: Phrases & Idioms - 2 - Class 8 MCQ

Definition of "Lions share":
The phrase "Lions share" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the largest or major portion or share of something. It is derived from the concept that lions, being the king of the jungle, claim the biggest part of the prey they hunt.
Explanation:
When someone says "Lions share," they mean that someone or something has the majority or dominant share of a particular thing or resource. It implies that a significant portion belongs to a specific entity or individual.
Example:
Suppose a company has four partners who have invested different amounts into the business. If one partner invests the most, they would have the "Lions share" of the ownership or profit distribution.
Options and Explanation:
A: look angrily - This option does not relate to the meaning of "Lions share." It is not a correct interpretation.
B: major share - This is the correct interpretation. "Lions share" means the major or largest share, making this option the correct answer.
C: minor share - This option is the opposite of the intended meaning. "Lions share" does not refer to a minor share.
D: heart of the prey - This option does not accurately reflect the meaning of "Lions share." It is not a correct interpretation.
Therefore, the correct answer is b. major share.

Definition: "Bag and baggage" is an idiomatic expression that means to leave a place, typically a home or a location, taking all of one's belongings with them.
Explanation: When someone says "bag and baggage," they are emphasizing that they are leaving a place and taking everything they own with them. This expression is often used to convey a sense of finality and completeness in the departure.
Example: If someone says, "I'm leaving this town bag and baggage," it means they are leaving and taking all their possessions with them.
Interpretation: The expression "bag and baggage" can be interpreted in several ways, such as:
- All the clothing: This interpretation suggests that someone is leaving a place with all their clothes and personal items.
- Without any belongings: This interpretation implies that someone is leaving a place without taking any of their belongings with them.
- Leave: This interpretation simply means to leave a place, without specifying whether or not belongings are being taken.
- With all one's belongings: This interpretation emphasizes that someone is leaving a place and taking all their possessions with them.
Answer: The correct interpretation of "bag and baggage" is option D: With all one's belongings. This means that when someone says they are leaving bag and baggage, they are leaving a place and taking all their possessions with them.

Explanation:
- The phrase "at arm's length" is an idiom that is often used to describe keeping someone or something at a distance.
- The correct answer is option B: "At a distance."
- Let's break down the options and eliminate the incorrect ones:
A: Length of arm
- This option is incorrect because "at arm's length" does not refer to the physical length of an arm.
B: At a distance
- This option is correct. "At arm's length" means keeping someone or something at a distance, both physically and metaphorically.
C: Insult
- This option is incorrect. "At arm's length" does not have any connotation of insult.
D: Very near
- This option is incorrect. "At arm's length" means keeping someone or something away, not close.
In conclusion, the correct answer is B: "At a distance," as it accurately reflects the meaning of the idiom "at arm's length."

Tie the knot:
Definition: To get married.
Explanation:
When someone says "tie the knot," they are referring to getting married. This phrase is often used to describe the act of entering into a lifelong commitment with a partner.
Reasoning:
- This phrase originated from the ancient practice of tying knots in a rope to symbolize the joining of two individuals in marriage.
- The phrase "tie the knot" is a metaphorical expression that emphasizes the binding nature of marriage.
- It emphasizes the idea of two people coming together and forming a strong bond.
Example:
- "After dating for many years, John and Emily decided it was time to tie the knot and start a life together."
- "They are planning to tie the knot next summer and have a beautiful outdoor wedding ceremony."
Alternative meanings:
It is important to note that while "tie the knot" primarily means to get married, it can occasionally be used in other contexts. However, these alternative meanings are less common and may vary based on cultural and regional differences. Some examples include:
- To get educated: This meaning is not widely used and is considered a lesser-known interpretation of the phrase.
- To hit someone: In some slang contexts, "tie the knot" can refer to hitting or assaulting someone. However, this usage is highly informal and not widely recognized.
- To be turned away: In certain contexts, "tie the knot" can mean to be rejected or turned away. However, this meaning is less common and can vary depending on the situation.

Explanation:
- The phrase "up to the mark" is used to describe something that meets the required standard or expectation.
- In the given options, option B: "Standard" is the closest in meaning to the phrase "up to the mark".
- Option A: "Feel greatly" does not match the meaning of the phrase.
- Option C: "Extinguish" is completely unrelated to the meaning of the phrase.
- Option D: "Below standard" is the opposite of the meaning of the phrase.
- Therefore, the correct answer is B: "Standard".
Summary:
- The phrase "up to the mark" means meeting the required standard or expectation.
- Option B: "Standard" is the closest in meaning to the phrase "up to the mark".
- Options A, C, and D do not match the meaning of the phrase.

All and Sundry
Definition: "All and sundry" is an idiomatic expression that means "everyone without distinction" or "every single person."
Explanation:
Here is a detailed explanation of the different interpretations of the phrase "all and sundry":
1. Everybody without distinction: This is the correct interpretation of the phrase. It refers to all people, without any exceptions or exclusions. It emphasizes the inclusion of everyone in a group or situation.
2. Only rich person: This interpretation is incorrect. The phrase does not imply any specific financial status or exclusivity based on wealth. It encompasses all individuals regardless of their economic background.
3. Together: This interpretation is partially correct. "All and sundry" does imply a sense of collective unity or togetherness. It suggests that all individuals are included as a whole, without any divisions or separations.
4. Selected people: This interpretation is incorrect. The phrase does not imply any selection or exclusion of specific individuals. It encompasses everyone, without any discrimination or exclusionary criteria.
In conclusion, the correct interpretation of "all and sundry" is that it refers to "everybody without distinction" or "every single person." It emphasizes inclusivity and the absence of any exclusions based on factors such as wealth or selection.

Definition:

A bone of contention is an idiom that refers to a subject or issue that is the cause of disagreement or conflict between people or groups.


The given options are:

A: Bone of lion

B: A reason for discord

C: Cause of friendship

D: Continued to bed
Explanation:

The correct answer is B: A reason for discord.

Here's why:
- A bone of contention is a phrase used to describe something that causes disagreement or conflict between people.
- Option A, "Bone of lion," does not accurately describe the meaning of the idiom.
- Option B, "A reason for discord," correctly captures the meaning of a bone of contention.
- Option C, "Cause of friendship," is the opposite of the actual meaning of the idiom.
- Option D, "Continued to bed," is unrelated and does not describe the meaning of a bone of contention.
To summarize, a bone of contention refers to a subject or issue that causes disagreement or conflict, and the correct answer is B: A reason for discord.

Explanation:

The phrase "a hard nut to crack" is an idiom that means a difficult problem or a person who is difficult to understand or deal with. It is often used to describe a challenging situation or task.

Options:

• To be deceived: This option is incorrect as it does not match the meaning of the idiom.


• Lazy: This option is incorrect as it does not match the meaning of the idiom.


• To confirm: This option is incorrect as it does not match the meaning of the idiom.


• A difficult problem: This option is correct as it accurately represents the meaning of the idiom "a hard nut to crack."

Therefore, the correct answer is D: A difficult problem.

To find the correct answer for the given phrase "A black sheep", we can analyze the possible options and determine which one best fits the context. Here is a detailed explanation for each option:
A:

Stranger

- A stranger refers to someone who is not known or familiar.
- This option does not directly relate to the phrase "A black sheep", as it implies more of an unfamiliar person rather than a description of someone's character.
B:

On the run

- "On the run" commonly refers to someone who is escaping or evading capture.
- While it is possible for a black sheep to be on the run in a metaphorical sense, this option does not fully capture the essence of the phrase.
C:

Scoundrel

- A scoundrel refers to a person who is dishonest, unscrupulous, or morally corrupt.
- This option aligns with the phrase "A black sheep" as it suggests someone with a negative or questionable character.
D:

Gentleman

- A gentleman typically describes a man who is polite, courteous, and well-mannered.
- This option does not fit the context of the phrase "A black sheep" as it portrays a positive and respectable character, whereas a black sheep implies someone who stands out negatively.
Answer: C - Scoundrel
The most suitable option among A, B, C, and D is C - "Scoundrel" as it best captures the meaning of "A black sheep" as someone with a questionable or negative character.

All In The Same Boat
Definition: The phrase "all in the same boat" refers to a situation where everyone is facing the same challenges or difficulties.
Explanation:
- Everyone facing same challenges: The phrase emphasizes that all individuals or groups are dealing with similar problems or obstacles.
- To avoid talking: It can also be used to indicate that people are reluctant to discuss their difficulties or share their problems with others.
- Doing something special: In some contexts, "all in the same boat" can imply that people are engaged in a shared activity or project that is unique or significant in some way.
- Travelling on the same vehicle: The phrase can also be interpreted literally, referring to people traveling together on the same mode of transportation.
Overall, the phrase "all in the same boat" highlights the idea of commonality and unity in the face of challenges or shared experiences. It suggests that individuals or groups should support and empathize with one another, as they are all navigating through similar circumstances.

Explanation:
Meaning of the phrase:
The phrase "on a roll" means to be in the midst of successes or to be experiencing a series of successful outcomes.
Answer choice b:
The correct answer is b, which means "in the midst of successes." This answer best captures the meaning of the phrase "on a roll."
Examples:
Here are a few examples to illustrate the meaning of being "on a roll":
- A sports team that has won several consecutive games is said to be on a roll.
- A student who consistently achieves high grades in their exams is also considered to be on a roll.
- A business that is experiencing a streak of profitable months is said to be on a roll.
Other answer choices:
Let's briefly look at the other answer choices to understand why they are not correct:
- Answer choice a: "Running fast" does not accurately capture the meaning of the phrase "on a roll."
- Answer choice c: "To meet the disaster" is the opposite of the intended meaning of the phrase "on a roll," which implies success rather than failure or disaster.
- Answer choice d: "To have faith in someone" is unrelated to the meaning of the phrase "on a roll."
In conclusion:
The phrase "on a roll" means to be in the midst of successes or to be experiencing a series of successful outcomes. Answer choice b, "in the midst of successes," best captures the meaning of the phrase.

Given:
- A: Conflict
- B: Supported
- C: Exited
- D: Resolved
- Answer: D
Explanation:
To find the answer, we need to understand the meaning of each option and determine which one is most appropriate based on the given context.
- A: Conflict: This option refers to a situation where there is a disagreement or clash between two or more parties. It does not align with the statement "Sorted out," which suggests that the issue has been addressed and resolved.
- B: Supported: This option implies providing aid, assistance, or backing to someone or something. While support can be helpful in resolving conflicts, it does not explicitly indicate that the issue has been sorted out.
- C: Exited: This option means to leave or withdraw from a situation or place. It does not relate to the idea of resolving a conflict.
- D: Resolved: This option means to find a solution or bring a dispute to a satisfactory conclusion. It aligns perfectly with the statement "Sorted out" and suggests that the conflict has been addressed and settled.
Therefore, the correct answer is D: Resolved.

Explanation:
The phrase "Without a doubt" means that something is certain or unquestionable. We are given four options to choose from and we need to select the option that is the most appropriate synonym for "Without a doubt."
Let's analyze each option:
A:

No idea

- This option means that there is no knowledge or understanding about something. It is the opposite of "Without a doubt."
B:

For certain

- This option is the most suitable synonym for "Without a doubt." It means that something is definite and unquestionable.
C:

Without knowledge

- This option means lacking knowledge or being unaware. It is similar to option A, but it does not capture the certainty implied by "Without a doubt."
D:

Without laws

- This option is unrelated to the phrase "Without a doubt" and does not capture its meaning.
Based on the analysis, option B, "For certain," is the correct answer as it is the most appropriate synonym for "Without a doubt."

In the teeth of
The phrase "in the teeth of" is an idiomatic expression used to indicate that someone is facing or confronting a difficult or challenging situation. It is often used to convey the idea of being in direct opposition to something or someone.
Possible meanings and usage of the phrase "in the teeth of" are as follows:
1. Real cause: This answer choice is incorrect as "in the teeth of" does not mean "real cause". It does not imply the underlying reason for something.
2. In the face of: This answer choice is correct. "In the teeth of" is often used interchangeably with "in the face of" to convey the idea of confronting a difficult situation or challenge.
3. In the end: This answer choice is incorrect. "In the teeth of" does not mean "in the end". It does not refer to the final outcome or conclusion of a situation.
4. To chase: This answer choice is incorrect. "In the teeth of" does not mean "to chase". It does not imply pursuing or running after something or someone.
In conclusion, the correct answer is B: in the face of. "In the teeth of" is an idiomatic expression used to convey the idea of facing or confronting a difficult situation or challenge.

Definition:
A man of straw refers to someone who has no influence or power. It is often used to describe a person who appears to be important or influential but is actually weak and ineffective.
Explanation:
To understand the meaning of "a man of straw" in detail, let's break it down:
1. Literal Meaning:
- The term "straw" refers to the dried stems of grain plants, which are lightweight and easily blown away or broken.
- The phrase "man of straw" figuratively represents a person who lacks substance or strength.
2. Metaphorical Usage:
- A man of straw is often used to describe someone who appears strong or influential on the surface but is actually weak or powerless.
- This person may have a high position or title but lacks the ability to make a significant impact or effect change.
Examples:
Here are a few examples to illustrate the usage of "a man of straw":
- A politician who promises a lot during election campaigns but fails to deliver on those promises once in office.
- A boss who talks confidently but lacks the skills or knowledge to effectively lead the team.
- A CEO who is easily manipulated by others and cannot make independent decisions.
Summary:
In summary, "a man of straw" refers to someone who appears to be important or influential but lacks real power or influence. It is used to describe individuals who are weak, ineffective, or easily controlled.