Do You Know The Meaning Of These Phrases?

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| By Zlatan Aleksic

Zlatan Aleksic

Community Contributor

Quizzes Created: 193 | Total Attempts: 1,023,457

Questions: 10 | Attempts: 294 | Updated: Mar 21, 2023

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Do You Know The Meaning Of These Phrases? - Quiz

Phrases are a part of every language, and English is no different. We're putting you on a test, and your task is to match the meaning of the phrase with the phrase. Good luck!

Questions and Answers

1.

What is the meaning of the phrase "gossamer wings"?
- A.
  
  Someone is flying
- B.
  
  Something is delicate and thin
- C.
  
  Someone has wings
- D.
  
  Something is from a fairy tale
Correct Answer
B. Something is delicate and thin

Explanation
The phrase "gossamer wings" refers to something that is delicate and thin. The word "gossamer" is often used to describe something very light, delicate, and almost transparent, like the thin wings of a butterfly or a fairy. Therefore, the correct answer is "Something is delicate and thin."

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2.

What is the meaning of the phrase "elephant in the room"?
- A.
  
  Someone in the room is fat
- B.
  
  Someone in the room has big ears
- C.
  
  A problem is not dealt with
- D.
  
  Someone is looking for a fight
Correct Answer
C. A problem is not dealt with

Explanation
The phrase "elephant in the room" is a metaphorical expression that refers to a significant issue or problem that everyone is aware of but chooses to ignore or avoid discussing. It implies that there is an obvious and uncomfortable problem present, yet people choose to pretend it does not exist or avoid addressing it.

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3.

What is the meaning of the phrase "to kick the bucket"?
- A.
  
  Death
- B.
  
  Violence
- C.
  
  Anger
- D.
  
  Someone doesn't like buckets
Correct Answer
A. Death

Explanation
The phrase "to kick the bucket" is an idiom that means to die. It is often used in a casual or humorous way to refer to someone's passing. The origin of this phrase is unclear, but it may have originated from the idea of someone kicking a bucket as an act of suicide or as part of a hanging method. Nonetheless, the phrase has become a common and widely understood expression for death.

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4.

What is the meaning of the phrase "a bull in china shop"?
- A.
  
  There's a bull on the loose
- B.
  
  Someone is acting weird
- C.
  
  Someone is angry like a bull
- D.
  
  Someone is clumsy
Correct Answer
D. Someone is clumsy

Explanation
The phrase "a bull in a china shop" is used to describe someone who is clumsy or careless, often causing damage or disruption. The comparison to a bull emphasizes the lack of grace or control in their actions, similar to how a bull would navigate a delicate environment like a china shop.

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5.

Which one do you like?
- A.
  
  Option 1
- B.
  
  Option 2
- C.
  
  Option 3
- D.
  
  Option 4
Correct Answer
A. Option 1
6.

What is the meaning of the phrase "paint the town red"?
- A.
  
  Someone has more red paint than they need
- B.
  
  Someone's planning a murder
- C.
  
  Graffiti
- D.
  
  Grand celebration
Correct Answer
D. Grand celebration

Explanation
The phrase "paint the town red" is an idiomatic expression that means to have a grand celebration or a night out on the town, typically involving excessive partying, drinking, and having a great time. It implies a sense of excitement, fun, and indulgence in festivities.

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7.

What is the meaning of the phrase "flash in a pan"?
- A.
  
  A young rebel
- B.
  
  Sudden and short-lived success
- C.
  
  Cooking disaster
- D.
  
  A spark
Correct Answer
B. Sudden and short-lived success

Explanation
The phrase "flash in a pan" refers to something that appears to be impressive or successful at first, but quickly loses its impact or fades away. It is often used to describe a person or an event that gains attention or achieves success momentarily, but fails to sustain or maintain it in the long run.

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8.

What is the meaning of the phrase "to pull the plug"?
- A.
  
  To postpone
- B.
  
  To cancel or stop something
- C.
  
  Someone died
- D.
  
  Someone's energy is low
Correct Answer
B. To cancel or stop something

Explanation
The phrase "to pull the plug" means to cancel or stop something. This expression is often used when referring to ending or discontinuing a project, event, or activity. It implies a sudden and decisive action to halt or terminate a particular endeavor or plan.

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9.

What is the meaning of the phrase "to break a leg"?
- A.
  
  Someone's clumsy
- B.
  
  Someone's angry
- C.
  
  To wish good luck
- D.
  
  To wish bad luck
Correct Answer
C. To wish good luck

Explanation
The phrase "to break a leg" is a common idiom used in the entertainment industry to wish someone good luck before a performance. It is believed to have originated from the superstition that wishing someone good luck directly would bring them bad luck, so instead, the opposite is said. It is a way of conveying support and encouragement to performers.

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10.

What is the meaning of the phrase "don't mince words"?
- A.
  
  Speaking fast
- B.
  
  Direct criticism
- C.
  
  Giving a compliment
- D.
  
  Speaking openly and directly
Correct Answer
B. Direct criticism

Explanation
The phrase "don't mince words" means to speak openly and directly without sugarcoating or avoiding the truth. It implies that the person should be straightforward and honest in their communication, especially when providing criticism or feedback.

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