Context Clues in Idiomatic Expressions

We tried to give Tommy a surprise party for his birthday, but you let the cat out of the bag.

The idiom let the cat out of the bag means:

• to hide a secret

• to let out a secret

• to host a birthday party

• to spoil a surprise party

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Jeffrey was a fast learner, so he knew that the history test would be a piece of cake. The idiom piece of cake means:

• easy

• hard

• light

• sweet

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Kylie’s mother wanted her to play the piano but, it is not her cup of tea. What is the meaning of this idiom?

• Kylie doesn't like tea.

• She is good at playing the piano.

• Playing the piano is not her favorite.

• She was neither good nor enjoyed playing the piano.

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If Kim thinks that I’m going to let her copy my math homework, she’s barking up the wrong tree.

What is the meaning of the idiom barking up at the wrong tree?

• to reveal a secret

• to pursue a wrong choice

• to let other people do your work

• to look for another tree to bark on

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The lawyer knew that beating around the bush would get Tom all worked up.

What does the idiom beating around the bush mean?

• cutting a tree

• playing circles around a bush

• speaking indirectly about the issue

• disregarding the truth about the case

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Don’t challenge Mike to a dance off unless you are ready because he will get in a dance battle at the drop of a hat.

What is the meaning of the idiom?

• making decision

• wearing a hat while dancing

• winning in a dance contest

• without any hesitation

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After seeing his progress report grades, Jack knew that he had to hit the books. or lost his scholarship. What is the meaning of the idiom hit the books?

• go to the library

• ignore his books

• read his books

• study hard

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Miko's classmates avoid him because he was so full of himself. What does the idiom mean?

• very rich

• overweight

• always talking about food

• too proud of his achievement

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Kate can't play outside today because it's raining cats and dogs.

• The cats and dogs are playing.

• Kate doesn't like cats and dogs.

• It's raining heavily.

• Rain is coming.

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The whole world is completely in the dark of the pandemic caused by covid I9. What is the meaning of the idiom in the dark?

• The world is unaware

• The world is getting busy.

• The world became dark.

• It is getting dark because of the pandemic.

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CCSS.L.5.5B