Unit 1 - B2+ Vocabulary Drills - Body Idioms

When Jane found out that Mark was talking about her ________, she felt very hurt.

• behind her back
• under her nose
• on her side

Answer explanation

"Behind her back" means talking about someone without their knowledge, often negatively.

When I have trouble with a project, I like to ________ and ask for some ideas.

• lend a hand
• pick someone's brain
• pull someone's leg

Answer explanation

"Pick someone's brain" means to ask for advice or ideas.

During the argument, they were ________, arguing loudly over small things.

• all ears
• under each other’s thumb
• at each other’s throats

Answer explanation

"At each other’s throats" means arguing intensely or fighting verbally.

Sarah felt better after she could ________ and talk about the problem that had been worrying her.

• get something off her chest
• give someone the cold shoulder
• stick her neck out

Answer explanation

"Get something off her chest" means to talk about something that’s been bothering you.

The boss had to ________ in the meeting, saying the deadline would not change.

• pick someone’s brain
• pull someone’s leg
• put his foot down

Answer explanation

"Put his foot down" means to assert authority and make a firm decision.

Mike has everyone in the office ________; they always do what he says.

• under his thumb
• behind his back
• on his nerves

Answer explanation

"Under his thumb" means to have complete control over someone.

Can you ________ and help me carry these bags?

• give someone the cold shoulder
• lend me a hand
• put your foot down

Answer explanation

"Lend me a hand" means to help someone.

When Tom played that joke on me, I knew he was just trying to ________.

• get on my nerves
• stick his neck out
• pull my leg

Answer explanation

"Pull my leg" means to joke or tease someone.

When the manager announced the news, everyone was ________, ready to listen.

• all ears
• behind his back
• under his thumb

Answer explanation

"All ears" means to be very attentive and ready to listen.

I was nervous before my speech, but Jane ________ and supported me.

• gave me the cold shoulder
• stuck her neck out for me
• got something off her chest

Answer explanation

"Stuck her neck out" means to take a risk to support someone.