What is an idiom?

An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning that is different from its literal meaning. For example, 'kick the bucket' means to die, not literally to kick a bucket.

How does the idiom 'break the ice' function in communication?

'Break the ice' means to initiate conversation in a social setting, often to relieve tension. It’s used when someone starts a discussion to make others feel more comfortable.

What does it mean to say someone is 'barking up the wrong tree'?

To 'bark up the wrong tree' means to make a wrong assumption or pursue the wrong course of action. It implies that the person is looking for solutions in the wrong place.

In what situation would you use the idiom 'piece of cake'?

'Piece of cake' is used to describe a task that is very easy to accomplish. For example, if someone asks how difficult a test was, you might say, 'It was a piece of cake.'

Explain the meaning of the idiom 'the ball is in your court'.

'The ball is in your court' means that it's now your turn to take action or make a decision. It often suggests that the responsibility is now on you to respond or act.

Identify the correct idiom in this sentence: 'He is very interested ___ learning new languages.'

The correct idiom is 'in.' The complete sentence should read: 'He is very interested in learning new languages.'

Which is correct: 'She is capable ___ leading the team' or 'She is capable ___ lead the team'?

'She is capable of leading the team' is correct. The idiom requires 'of' followed by a gerund.

Complete the idiom: 'He decided to go ___ the proposal after careful consideration.'

The correct completion is 'with.' The full idiom is 'go with the proposal.'

Choose the correct idiom: 'She was accused ___ cheating on the test.'

'She was accused of cheating on the test.' The idiom 'accused of' requires the preposition 'of.'

What does the idiom 'hit the nail on the head' mean?

'Hit the nail on the head' means to be exactly correct about something or to get to the point directly.

Fill in the blank: 'He tends to dwell ___ the past instead of moving forward.'

'He tends to dwell on the past instead of moving forward.' The correct idiom requires 'on.'