ALCPT Idiomatic and Phrasal Expressions 4

Question 1

When someone says they are 'on the fence' about a decision, what do they mean?

Accepted Answer

They are undecided or neutral

Answer

'On the fence' means being undecided or not having taken a side yet.

Question 2

If a project is said to be 'behind the eight ball,' what is the situation?

Accepted Answer

It is in a difficult or disadvantaged position

Answer

'Behind the eight ball' describes being in a difficult or losing position.

Question 3

What does the phrasal verb 'look into' mean in 'The manager will look into the complaint'?

Accepted Answer

Investigate or examine

Answer

'Look into' means to investigate or examine something more carefully.

Question 4

If someone tells you to 'hang tight,' what are they asking you to do?

Accepted Answer

Wait patiently

Answer

'Hang tight' is an informal way of telling someone to wait patiently.

Question 5

What does 'bite the bullet' mean in everyday American English?

Accepted Answer

Endure a painful situation with courage

Answer

'Bite the bullet' means to endure something difficult or unpleasant with determination.

ALCPT - American Language Course Placement Test Practice Test