English: Idioms and Phrases Set 35

Important Idioms and Phrases useful for various exams like Banking, SSC CGL 2017, CPO, CHSL, RRB NTPC, High Court and other exams.
Though the topic Idioms and Phrases is asked in SSC and related exams, but it is important for other exams as well as a part of general English.

1. A knife in the back
   A) treachery
   B) pain
   C) difficult situation
   D) under control
   
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   Option A
   Usage: This revelation regarding the governor’s longstanding misappropriation of public funds is sure to be a knife in the back of his constituency, as well as every taxpayer in the state.
   
2. Will o’ the wisp
   A) desperate
   B) an unattainable goal
   C) as per one’s choice
   D) punctual
   
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   Option B
   Usage: Making her accept the proposal is will o’ the wisp.
   
3. In spades
   A) honourably
   B) in the best way possible
   C) by fluke
   D) to gamble
   
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   Option B
   Usage: He succeeded at life in spades—honors degree, great career, rich wife, lovely children, and early retirement.
   
4. Ride coattails
   A) to use connection to get succeeded
   B) to make someone fool
   C) to hire a professional
   D) to make a huge amount of money
   
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   Option A
   Usage: I don’t think he would get promoted without riding his boss’s coattails.
   
5. Make a pass at someone
   A) to regard with contempt
   B) to tolerate
   C) to let go
   D) to flirt
   
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   Option D
   Usage: No one ever makes a pass at him.
   
6. Huff and puff
   A) to enjoy
   B) to run
   C) to pant
   D) to make matters worse
   
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   Option C
   Usage: John came up the stairs huffing and puffing.
   
7. Gall and wormwood
   A) friendly
   B) frank
   C) bitterness
   D) strict
   
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   Option C
   Usage: Ever since I lost the election for school president, I only feel gall and wormwood when I think of my unworthy opponent.
   
8. Make light of
   A) to make a situation uncomfortable
   B) to treat in an unimportant way
   C) to reveal the secrets
   D) to die
   
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   Option B
   Usage: I make light of my problems, and that makes me feel better.
   
9. Mend fences
   A) to do a difficult task
   B) to make amends to the wrongs done
   C) to improve poor relations
   D) to concentrate on present rather than past
   
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   Option C
   Usage: Angelena is trying to mend fences with her dad.
   
10. With a vengeance
    A) quietly
    B) without any emotion
    C) angrily
    D) with great intensity
    
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    Option D
    Usage: If the MCH approves the redevelopment scheme, they will start demolition with a vengeance.
    

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