IEO Idioms & Phrases

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

To say or do exactly the right thing

Answer

'Hit the nail on the head' means to describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem — to be precisely correct.

Question 2

The phrase 'break a leg' is commonly used to mean:

Accepted Answer

Good luck

Answer

'Break a leg' is an expression used in theater and other performances to wish someone good luck.

Question 3

What does 'bite the bullet' mean?

Accepted Answer

To endure a painful situation with courage

Answer

'Bite the bullet' means to endure a painful or difficult situation bravely without complaining.

Question 4

If someone says 'it's raining cats and dogs,' they mean:

Accepted Answer

It is raining very heavily

Answer

'Raining cats and dogs' is an idiom meaning it is raining very heavily.

Question 5

What does the idiom 'cost an arm and a leg' mean?

Accepted Answer

To be extremely expensive

Answer

'Cost an arm and a leg' means something is very expensive or costs a lot of money.

IEO - International English Olympiad Practice Test