IDIOMATIC EXPRESSIONSKnowledge of idioms is important for the Listening Comprehension section, especially PART A. These Mini-Lessons contain list of some 300 expressions and their definitions as well as exercises to familiarize you with most of these expressions. Many of the expressions listed here have appeared on the LISTENING COMPREHENSION section of TOELF exams in the past, some of them several times Notes : 1. If a phrase contains a word in parentheses, that word is used only if the verb is followed by an noun or pronoun Example : Catch up (with) - You go ahead. I’ll catch up later (no noun or pronoun) - I’ll catch up with you later (pronoun) 2. The words one and someone are used to indicate that any pronoun (or sometimes a noun) can be used in this expression Example : On one’s own - How long have you been on your own? - Tom’s been on his own for several years Lesson 1 1. About to 2. Above all 3. Add up 4. All at once 5. All of sudden 6. As a matter of fact 7. As a rule 8. At ease 9. At the drop of a hat 10. Back out (of) 11. Bank on 12. Be my guest yourself 13. Be rusty 14. Beats me used in response almost ready to most importantly make sense; be logical suddenly; without warning all at once; suddenly in reality; actually generally; customarily not nervous; calm quickly; without any preparation time withdraw an offer depend on; count on do want you want; feel free; help need practice or review I don’t know; I have no idea (often 15. 16. to a question) Better off in an improved condition Bite off more than one can chew taken on more responsibility than one 17. 18. can handle certain to; sure to stop functioning Bound to Break down for example) 19. Break in (on) 20. Break the ice ( a machine, interrupt break through social barriers (as at a party) 21. Break the news (to) inform; give bad news 22. Break up end (a meeting, for example) 23. Break up (with) stop being a couple (a bf and gf, for example) 24. A breeze 25. Bring about 26. Bring up sth very simple and easy to do cause to happen (1) raise (a child) (2) introduce ( a topic, for example ) 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. Brush up on Bump into By and large By heart By no means review; study; practice meet unexpectedly; run into mostly; generally; on the whole by memory; learned word for word in no way; not at all Exercise Fill in the blanks in the sentences or dialogs with idioms from the list above. There will be one word per blank. It may be necessary to change the verb forms in order for the sentence to be grammatically correct. The first one is done as an example. 1. “Can you talk now?” “No, I’m about to go to the grocery store, but I’ll call you as soon as I get back” “I think Matthew was cheating on that quiz” “That doesn’t __________ _____________Why should the best student in the class cheat?” 13. 7.2. Kent is _________ _____________fail that class if he doesn’t start studying 10. 8. You can ___________ _______my support 4. If you don’t want to talk about this problems. but _________ ___________ ________ I enjoyed it 12. Carlos is very punctual. I was taking a quiet walk last night when. “I understand Diane lost her job” “Yes. but she’s actually _____________ ______________. I’d enjoy another game” 3. 6. ______________ ________________ _______________. really ____________ ______________ _________________ ___________ ________________. She found a more interesting job with a higher salary. “Will you support my proposal at the meeting?” “Certainly. but he sure was late tonight. “You’re probably too tired to play another game of racquetball. They _________ ____________their children to be honest 11. There were few things I didn’t like about Professor Wong’s class. Many accidents are __________ _____________ by carelessness . I was talking to my aunt when suddenly my cousin George Ann ____________ __________ ________ our conversation 5. and I had to take the bus to work until it was repaired. there was a loud explosion 9. “Can I have another sandwich?” “Sure. I made plenty” 14. My car__________ _______________ last week. right?” “I’m not that tired. ____________ ________________ ____________ ___________. why did you __________it ______________? 16. Actors and actresses must know their lines ___________ ________________ 15. __________ _____________ ______________. . it’s been ______ ________. 3. “I was awfully nervous when I gave that speech” “Really? You hid it well. 5. I though you were completely ______ __________” Lesson 2 1. 18. 10. I see” “I could leave ______ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ____________” 22. 7. learn Go as fast as . Catch on Catch on (to) Catch up (with) Check in (or into) Check out (of) Stop working for the day. It was a very close game. “Have you studied Spanish before?” “Yes. “Do you know what the name of this street is?” “_______ ____________ This is the first time I’ve ever been in this town” 23. but __________ ____________ _____________ dominated it. 9. Call it a day Call off Call on Calm down Care for 6. so I’ll need to ________ __________ ___________ it before I go to Venezuela” 20. “You’re taking five classes this term?” “Yes. “How’s that biology class you’re taking?” “So far. I am afraid I ________ __________ ______________ this time 21. catch Register (at a hotel) (1)Leave (a hotel) (2)Take material (from a library. It was still going on when I went home” 25. 4. That might _________ ___________ ___________” 19. Their team won the game. but it’s been years since I took a Spanish class. “What time did the party____________ last night? “I don’t know. No one is talking to one another” “Maybe we should put on some music and start dancing. “What a boring party. and I’m having trouble getting caught up. 2. go home Cancel Visit Relax (1)Take care of (2)Like. 8. feel affection for Become popular Understand. “You’re all packed and ready to go. We’ve just been going over things I studied last semester” 24.17. There will be one word per blank. rely on. discontinue 22. This morning I plan to _______ ___________at about nine 7. 12. 13.for example) Become cheerful. I can ______ ____________my car. encounter Begin to change one’s opinion. bank on Eliminate. How did you _______ _________ ____________such a strange idea? 6. I was looking up some information in the almanac when I _________ ____________an interesting fact. It’s very dependable and never breaks down. 3. Cut off factor Stop. I arrived in town last night at seven-thirty and ________ _________my hotel at around eight. Don’t get so excited. no longer consider as a 21. It may be necessary to change the verb forms in order form the sentence to be grammatically correct. Just _________ ___________and tell us what happened. be qualified for 16. 15. “Did you rent this videotape?” for . The reception in the garden was _________ _________because of a thunderstorm 2. Come across Come around (to) to talk about the weather Meet. Exercise : Fill in the blanks in the sentences or dialogs with idioms form the list above. 1. 20. be happy Contribute (1)Clarify. 17. (a service. 5. Cut out for example) Have an aptitude for. make understandable (2)Become nice and sunny (used 11. 4. 18. 19. begin Come down with Come up with Cost an arm and a leg Count on Count out to agree with Become sick with (an illness) Think of (an idea) Be very expensive Depend on. Cheer up Chip in (on/for) Clear up 14. It won’t be too expensive to buy Professor McMilen a present if we all ________ ______________ 10. the utilities company might _______ ___________his electricity. 11. In fact. “Why did Brenda drop out of business school?” “She decided she wasn’t ______ ________ ___________a career in business. I don’t ______ _______ it at all 15. I ________ it _________the library” 8. Why don’t we___________ ______________ __________ ________ and finish up tomorrow? 9. This song wasn’t very popular when it was first recorded. If Arthur doesn’t pay his electric bill soon. I’ll bet she can ________ ___________your confusion” 12. You can find one for a reasonable price. 14. “Your roommate is still planning to vote for Smithson for president of the Student Council?” “Yes.” 20. “How did Eric do in the cross-country ski race?” “He got off to a bad start. but I’m going to keep talking to him. Who_____ _________your cat while you were out of town? 13. A good stereo system doesn’t have to ________ _________ __________ __________ _________ __________. You look tired. and I’m sure you’ll do better on the other tests” 16. but now it’s starting to ________ _______ 19. Cauliflower isn’t my favorite vegetable. “I don’t understand this theorem at all” “Talk to Professor Adler. She’s going to study art instead 18. I didn’t do very well on the first quiz” “___________ ___________! That quiz only counted for 10% of the total grade. I think eventually he’ll _______ _________ _________ our point of view and vote for Brannigan. “I’m depressed. so he never ________ __________ ___________ the leading skiers” 17. That saleswoman ________ ___________her clients at least once a month because she thinks personal contact is important .“No. 22. repeat Not have Wasted.Lesson 3 1. Day in and day out Die down Do over Do without Down the drain Constantly Become less severe. Feel free Feel like Feel like a million dollars Feel up to Few and far between Figure out annoyed by Do something if one wants Be inclined to. let someone out of a car Stop attending (classes. 5. It may be necessary to change the verb forms in order for the sentence to be grammatically correct. 11. There will be one word per blank. lag behind Fail to happen Not similar to. come up with Send someone a letter Visit informally (1)Leave something (a package. done for no reason (work. think of. 21. 2. 16. solve 17. a piece of cake one’s Said of someone who takes more 10. 18. It took me hours to ________ __________how to record programs on my DVD player . 4. than Exercise : Fill the blanks in the sentences or dialogs with idioms from the list above. disgusted with. 1. Dream up Drop (someone) a line Drop in (on) Drop off for example) Invent. for example) (2)Take (someone) home. 19. Drop out (of) Easy as pie Eyes bigger 13. 9. not as good as Not able to tolerate. 7. 14. 15. want to Feel very good Feel able to do something. 12. ready to Uncommon and infrequent Understand. 20. 6. quiet down Do again. stomach Fall behind Fall through A far cry from Fed up (with) food than he or she can eat Not move as quickly as. 3. for example) Very simple. 8. “Do you telephone friends before you visit. “The food at that new restaurant isn’t bad” “It’s all right. But I’m studying hard to catch up” 6. He never pays his bills or his share of the rent on time 9.” 5. I generally call first” 14. “Isn’t your class picnic today?” “No. “Why do we need to get gas now? We have quite a bit left” “This highway goes through some very empty country. If you could ______________ ____________the laundry on the way to work. “Ralph really loaded up his tray with food” “He’ll never eat it all. I get tired of doing the same things ____________ ____________ ___________ _____________ _________ too” 15. and gas stations are __________ __________ ____________ ____________” 7. our plans for the picnic _________ ____________” 10. Howard’s teacher wasn’t satisfied with the work he had done. I just visit them. “Do you _____________ _____________going out tonight?” “No. If there’re acquaintances. but ___________ _______________ ______________ ___________ it’s the food at Mario’s. so she asked him to __________it ___________ 8. After blowing furiously all day. didn’t they?” 4. “Why have you __________ ______________in your French class?” “I was sick and I missed a few classes. “What a wonderful masquerade party!” “People certainly ____________ _____________some interesting costumes. the will finally ___________ _______________ 13. Ben had to ________ ____________ ______________ the university because of problems 12. Now that is a great restaurant!” 11. I’ll pick it up on Monday 3. “I’m tired of the same old routine” “I know how you feel.2. or just ______________ _________ _________them?” “It depends. I’d rather stay home and read. I’m ______________ ____________ __________my roommate’s lack of responsibility. Ralph’s ___________ are __________ ______ his ___________ “ . If there’re close friends. Get carried away Have good relations with Go too far. 20. 8. for 5. forever Temporarily. off more than one can chew Block. discover Someone not in his or her normal Fix up Follow in one’s footsteps surroundings Repair.16. Get along with 14. Get in one’s blood 16. “I’ve missed James since he moved to Seattle” 18. bite 17. for now Unexpectedly. 10. 21. For good For the time being From out of the blue Get a kick out of else did (especially parents) Permanently. obstruct Contact Leave (a vehicle) Start to be successful Board ( a vehicle) Recover from ( a disease ) Get Get Get Get Get Get in the way in touch with off off the ground on over . “You should ___________ him __________ _____________ and let him know how you’re doing. buy too 15. have fun doing something something 13. 18. I don’t need it this morning” 17. without warning (doing Enjoy. 12. Fill in Write in a blank (on an application 2. Fill in (for) Fill one in Fill out form. 4. do too much. 19. Get in over one’s head much Become a habit. become customary Take on too much responsibility. renovate Do what someone 7. “I need to use a computer for a few hours” “__________ __________ to use my laptop computer. Find out A fish out of water example) learn. 9. 3. I’m sure he’d love to get a letter from you. 11. 22. for example) Substitute for Provide missing information Complete (an application form.” Lesson 4 1. 6. “Are you moving to Baltimore___________ ______________?” “No. “That old paint that you have stored in your garage is a fire hazard” “You’re right. “I’m interested in the job that was advertised in the newspaper” “Fine. Some companies __________ ____________ free samples of new products in order to familiarize consumers with them 8. It may be necessary to change the verb forms in order for the sentence to be grammatically correct. I should _________ __________ ___________ it” 7. isn’t it? I’ve never understood why people __________ __________ _________ _______ ___________ writing on walls. It doesn’t seem like much fun to me 10. There will be one word per blank. I really feel like ___________ ___________ _____________ _____________ _____________ 9. 1. Exercise Fill in the blanks in the sentence or dialogs with idioms from the list above. “Is Agnes still mad at you?” “I suppose so. “Don’t you just hate all this graffiti?” “It is ugly. I’ll be back here in a month or two” 6. Get rid of 24. “Maxwell’s project will be very successful. Just __________ ____________this application form” 3. I think” . Polly?” “Not so good. just ________ __________ ________ ________. “How’s that advanced computer class you’re taking. I can’t understand a word that the teacher or any of the students are saying. Don’t forget to ________ __________the date on your check 4. and she just __________ me _________ _________ ___________ 5.23. start Act unfriendly toward 26. no longer have Begin. I saw her at a party last weekend. Give (someone) a cold shoulder Discard. Get under way 25. a mysterious looking woman in a black raincoat __________ ___________ the train and found her seat 11. “How did you _________ ____________ where Warren lives?” “I Just looked it up in my address book” 2. When the train stopped. Give away ignore Distribute (for free) someone. 2. 7. 13. 12. clap Assist Not punish severely Continue Do too much. 9. he’s ___________ it _____________ beautiful. “Will the concert start soon?” “It should _____________ ________________ _____________ any minute now” 16. Professor Dunbar came down with the flue. return Distribute Wait Difficult to find . I don’t know. Once you’ve lived here. Go without saying Grow up Hand in Hand out Hang on Hard to come by two articles of clothing) Be clear. he hasn’t. 3. hasn’t he?” 14. to become an adult Give back to. complement ( for example : 8. 6. be obvious To mature. Everyone has to _______________ _______________ the bus here 18. so her teaching assistant _____________ _____________ ________________ her for a few days Lesson 5 1. Living by the ocean really ___________ ____________ your __________. 10. I’m not sure it will ever __________ _____________ ____________ ___________ 12. “Has Edward ________ _______________ ______________ _____________ you lately?” “No. or do you two argue? 13. 4. This is the last stop. 11. you never want to leave 17.“Oh. “That run-down old house that David bought looks terrific” “Yes. Get the hang of something Give a hand Give a hand (with) Go easy on Go on (with) Go overboard Go with Learn how to do something Applaud. buy too much (1)Accompany (2)Look good together. I don’t think he has my new telephone number” 15. 5. Do you ___________ _____________ ___________ your new roommate. have a challenging job Have fun. At the beginning of the class. “Have you ever ________ ___________ William Carlos Williams?” “I believe so. ________ ____________ while I take your photograph. 20. He was a poet. Hold up Exercise : Fill in the blanks in the sentences or dialogs with idioms from the list above. Hold still 28. 18. but I’m going to ____________ ______________ _____________ my studies in graduate school. 15. 8. “Hello. Hold on (to) 27. There will be one word per blank.” . Hit the road 25. Have a heart Have a hunch Have a word with (someone) Have on Have one’s hands full Have the time of one’s life Hear firsthand (from) Be compassionate. I have to pay a big fine. be in touch with Know about. After ten minutes. is Gina there?” “Yes. right?” “Yes. go away Wait Grasp Not move Delay 24. wasn’t he?” 5. 1. 23. have a great time Get information directly from Hear from Hear of Hit it off someone Be contacted by.” 7. the instructor ____________ ___________ the quizzes and told the students they had ten minutes in which to finish 3.14. 2. 16. Hold on 26. “I got stopped by the police for speeding. 19. 22. It may be necessary to change the verb forms in order for the sentence to be grammatically correct. ___________ ___________ a minute and I’ll get here 6. Everett was born in the South. “You’re graduating next month. be familiar with Become friendly (especially at a first meeting) Leave. the students __________ ____________ their quizzes to the instructor 4. 17. but ____________ _______________ in Michigan. 21. show mercy Have an intuitive feeling Talk to someone briefly Wear Be very busy. I don’t want the picture to be blurry. 17. 15. It’s getting late. She said she’s _____________ ___________ ___________ _______________ her ___________ and never wants to come home. Can you _________ me ____________ _____________ ___________ this luggage? It’s too heavy for me to carry myself 16. “Do you like this blouse?” “Yes. you could talk to the judge and ask him to reduce it. “Can I _______ ____________ ___________ ___________ you now. I looked for it in three or four bookstores before I finally found it 18. “What______________ _______________your flight?” “There was a big snowstorm in Denver that delayed a lot of flights” 14. and we’ll talk then. “Oh. In fact. but the book is __________ _______________ ______________. Professor Rivera?” “I’ve got to go to class right now. “Do you think Iris will pass the history test?” “That ____________ _____________ ______________. The audience _____________ the cast a big___________ after their wonderful performance 12. maybe he’ll ________ _____________ ____________ you” 9. but I think the grey silk one would _________ better ____________ your jacket” 10.“Well. I got a postcard from her yesterday. 19. Dave is teaching you how to wind surf?” “Yes. I’d better _____________ ________________ ____________ if I want to get home by midnight. she’ll probably have the best grade in the class 13. “So. “You sure bought a lot of groceries” . and he’s such a good teacher that I’m already ___________ ___________ ____________ __________ it” 11. Since you’ve never been stopped for speeding before. “Have you __________ ____________ your flight?” “Yeah. Drop by my office later.” 20. you bought that new book by Richard Stone” “Yes. The wind is starting to blow. You’d better ___________ ____________ ____________ your hat. 14. Jump to conclusions people Form opinions 13. 15. Leave s. 5. 4. very quickly Face to face ( not by telephone. 7. take care of. Join the club same problem Solve ( a problem) Have the same problem as other 12. 6. confused Over a long period of time In the same situation. 22. look after Look for Continue Know where something or someone Keep Keep Keep Keep an eye on an eye out (for) on (with) track of 17. I guess I ________ ___________. for example) 19. Iron out 11. Know like the back of one’s Be very familiar with hand 20. get used to. coming up Not knowing.o/sth alone get the hang of Not include. etc) In the future. store the dark the long run the same boat letter.” Lesson 6 1. in brief In agreement with.“Yeah. having the 10. Lay off 21. omit Not disturb . 8. evidence Watch. Keep up (with) 18. Learn the ropes Put out of work Become familiar with. 9. In In In In In In In In In a nutshell favor of hot water no time person In summary. Kill time without sufficient is Maintain the same speed as Spend time doing unimportant things (before an appointment. I should never go grocery shopping when I’m hungry. Leave out 23. 16. 3. 2. supporting In trouble Very soon. There will be one word per blank. I’m really ______ ___________ ___________ this trip. “You must be anxious to go on your vacation. Alex complained that no one invited him to any social events and that he felt _______ ______ 9. Will you _________ _________ ___________ _________ my dog while I go in the drugstore? 2. The store had to ______ ____________ a number of clerks because sales were down. but ______ ___________ ___________ __________ this is a good investment 8. Look after 27. 1. Let up Disappoint Decline in intensity (rain. Let someone down 25.” “There might be some vacancies in the building where I live. Maybe your jewelry wasn’t stolen after all. I’ll be there ___________ ____________ ____________ 10. Look for 28. 4. “I can’t go to Daryl’s party this weekend. Look forward to 29. Look into Exercise : Fill in the blanks in the sentences or dialogs with idioms from the list above.” 11.” 5. Kathy’s daughter has such short legs that she has a hard time ________ _________ __________ the other children 3. Don’t _______ _________ __________ . I have to study” for . “Has it stopped raining yet?” “No.24. “Can you hurry over here? I need to see you right away” “Sure. I’ll ______ __________ ________ _______ ________one” 7. “May I help you. sir?” “No.” “I certainly am. I’m just looking around and trying to _________ some ____________ until my wife finishes shopping. It may be necessary to change the verb forms in order for the sentence to be grammatically correct. example) Take care of mind Try to locate Anticipate (with pleasure) Investigate 26. but it’s beginning to _____________ _______________ a little “ 12. The company may lose some money now. 6. “I need to find a new apartment. ” 22. “Yes. but I’m still ___________ ____________ __________ . Alfred is ________ __________ __________ with his boss because he didn’t finish an important project by the deadline 21.“Guess we’re __________ _______________ _______________ ____________. “I understand that you have a new dean over at the Business School” 25. don’t touch it. 19. “Should we stop and spend the night at this motel?” “No. I didn’t understand a word she said/” 18. Are you ____________ _______________ ___________ this proposal or against it? 23. Stella’s sister ___________ ____________ her baby while Stella is at work. but I think she’s finally ________ ___________ _________there. “If you don’t know how to use this software. his name is Dean Nishimura. I’ve got to study too” 13. “Are you familiar with this neighborhood?” “I grew up here. The police are ________ ___________________ the crime. I can never ___________ ____________ _____________ his coming and goings. She just has a few minor problems left to ________ _________. “Has Marilyn gotten used to her new job at the bank yet?” “It took her awhile. let’s ____________ _____________ driving for a few more miles. so I ___________ _______________ ____________ ___________ __________ my __________ 24. I _________ all over town _______ her baby while Stella is at work 16.” 20. Just _______ it ___________ 15. why don’t you ask Joanne to help?” “I did ask her. 17. “Is your roommate at home now?” “I have no idea.” 14. He has a completely different philosophy of business education from the one Dean . If you find a baby animal in the woods. “Did Amanda ever complete her project?” “She’s almost finished. 5. 23. create Decide Allow space for. admire Act embarrassingly Make a special effort Balance a budget Be logical and clear. 10. 2. not to any degree Be unable to believe what one hears Not think much of Odds and ends An old hand (at) On edge On end (or sees) Not like. 19. 9. anxious Independent After reconsidering hand needles and pins one’s own second thought . read (1)Find information (especially in Look up too Make a fool of oneself Make a point of Make ends meet Make sense (of) Make up Make up one’s mind Make way for Mean to Mixed up Music to one’s ears A nervous wreck Next to nothing a reference book) (2)Try to locate someone Respect. 28. 22. 11. 8. 17. 6. understand Invent. definitely There was no damage done Not in any way. for example). miscellaneous items An experienced person Nervous Consecutively.Woodford had. 26. so I’m sure that some big changes are ___________ _____________ for us” Lesson 7 1. 3. 14. 30. Look Look Look Look like out (for) over up Resemble Be careful Examine. 16. provide a path for Intend to Confused Something that sounds pleasant Someone who is very nervous Very little (money. 18. 25. 29. without a break (days On On On On on end. 15. 20. 12. for example) Easily available Nervous. not have a good opinion of Small. 7. No doubt about it No harm done Not at all Not believe one’s ears (or eyes) cheap Certainly. 24. 27. 13. 21. 4. 39.” “Thanks. I don’t have much cash ___________ ______________. 8. illogical. Is this story true. 9. especially on the bibliography. 34.” “Wait. It may be necessary to change the verb forms in order for the sentence to be grammatically correct. 32. or did you just ________ it _________? 4. for example). What a confusing movie! I couldn’t ______________ ____________ _________ it. but I can get some from an automatic teller machine. 6.31. waiter. On the go On the tip of one’s tongue On the whole Out of (sth) Out of one’s mind Out of order Out of the question Over and over Over one’s head Always busy. 38. repeatedly Not understandable ( a joke. Sherry ____________ ______________ _____________ her father because of all the help and good advice he’s given her. 36. no _________ _____________ ____________ __________. 1. 37. I did it ___________ __________ __________ until it was perfect. You can’t get a soda from that machine. I think I’ll have the chicken. 35. irrational Broken. “Have you ___________ ______________ this contract yet?” “Not yet. There’s a sign on it that says “________ __________ ___________” 5. obscure Exercise : Fill in the blanks in the sentences or dialogs with idioms from the list above. I ________________ ______________ ______________ _____________ getting the bibliography exactly right. “You did a fine job on this research paper. always moving Almost able to remember In general Not having something Insane. 33. “What’s Fritz’s cousin’s name?” .” “All right. impossible Again and again. “I think I’ll have the prime rib.” 2. 7. sir. I’ll try to read it this weekend. not functioning properly Definitely not.” 3. There will be one word per blank. the artist sold it to me for ______________ ________________ _______________.” 12. but I can’t quite remember. I just sold the last crate of peaches. I thought we’d never get off the ground.” 15. “I like that painting you bought. I’d like to reserve a room for this weekend. “Do you have any fresh peaches?” “Sorry. “Have you finished moving into your apartment?” “Almost. “How was your final exam. isn’t he?” “Yeah.” 10. Let’s _______________ it ___________in this atlas” 20. 18. “Brad sure is busy. “Hello. “When will you be informed of the test results?” “Not until Monday. They’re going to tear down those old warehouses to _____________ ____________ _____________ a big new hotel. __________ ____________ ___________alligators. I just love going to these car races” 13. I’m __________ _____________them. “Do you know what the capital of South Dakota is? I’m not sure. The plane was delayed for hours __________ __________. “Listen to the roar of the engines” “Yeah. so I’ll be __________ _____________ ___________ __________ all weekend” 19. 21. Did it cost much?” “No. but __________ _____________ ___________ it was pretty easy” . There are so many interesting dishes on the menu that it’s hard for me to ______________ my ____________which one to order 17.“It’s _____________ __________________ _____________ my _____________. If you go into the swamp.” 22.” “I’m afraid that’s ____________ ____________ __________ ____________. he’s involved in so many activities that he’s always ___________ ____________ ___________ 16. it’s ___________ ____________ my __________ . There are still a few __________ ___________ ___________ in my old apartment that I need to move today. 11. The hotel is fully booked this weekend. Laurie?” “A couple of questions were tricky. 14. Part with No longer have. not choose Do very well (on a test) Congratulate oneself Concentrate on. 3. I didn’t mean to. Pick up the tab (for) The picture of get without formal training) Pay for A perfect example of something .23. she should be a stand-up comic” “I suppose. not be in Pass up Pass with flying colors Pat oneself on the back Pay attention (to) Pick out Pick up the company of Not accept. 4. 9. “Oh. I thought it was fascinating. You must be _________ ___________. 25. I can’t afford this much rent. it’s Laurel Avenue. but a lot her jokes go right __________ my ___________. “I’m sorry I knocked that vase over. I’ve been playing since I was a kid. it was an accident. 6.” 29. “Did you find that lecture boring?” “_________ ____________ _____________.” 30. focus on Choose. It wasn’t damaged. This isn’t River Street. “I didn’t know you could play horseshoes so well.” 24. 5. He didn’t ________ ______________break the plate. select (1)Take something from a surface (for example.” “________ ______________ __________. I must have been __________ ___________ my __________when I signed the lease on this apartment. I’m __________ ____________ ____________ __________ horseshoes. a floor) (2)Go to a location and someone or sth (3)Learn (especially 8. “How long have you been living alone?” I’ve been ____________my ___________since I graduated from high school. 7. 2. 28. get rid of. I just don’t get them Lesson 8 1. In fact. “Christine is so funny.” 26.” 27. Let me_____________my glasses____________” 8. 20. Vanessa is allergic to tobacco smoke. 15. “What do you want to do tomorrow?” “I don’t know. 11. Put Put Put Put Put Put long. There will be one word per blank. Let’s just ____________ _____________ __________ __________” 5. postpone Begin to wear Assemble Tolerate aside away off on together up with Exercise : Fill in the blanks in the sentences or dialogs with idioms from the list above.10. . 21. I asked my teacher to __________ ___________the mistakes that I made in my essay so that I could correct them 4. “You should get rid of that old leather jacket” “I know. make up a story To continue doing something too 16. I’ve had it for years” 6. 14. but I hate to __________ ___________it. 12. “How did you learn how to make such beautiful pottery? Did you take a class in ceramics?” “NO. 19. to keep taking chances. It may be necessary to change the verb forms in order for the sentence to be grammatically correct. so she can’t ____________ ______________ ___________ smoking 2. but fortunately. set aside Return something to its proper place Delay. It took Linda weeks to ____________ _____________that thousand-piece jigsaw puzzle. “That conference you attended in San Diego must have been very expensive” “Yes. 17. Play it by ear Play it safe Point out A pretty penny Pull one’s leg Push one’s luck Do something without a definite plan Choose a cautious plan Indicate A lot of money Joke with someone. Save for later. 13. 18. the company I work for ____________ _____________ ____________ __________ __________it” 3. “Can you read that sign?” “Just a minute. 1. I just _________it___________on my own” 7. The child ________ __________ her toys from the floor and then __________them__________in her toy box 13. I chose it myself” 15. I wouldn’t believe a word Lynn told ________________your_____________ Lesson 9 1. “I passed the first two quizzes in this class. _________ _________as I read the directions or you won’t understand what to do 17. This bike cost ______________ ______________ ________________. 14. I’m going to ______________this magazine___________for now and read it later 20. Bert and Mary had to __________ _________their dinner party until next weekend because Bert wasn’t feeling well. “I finally finished collecting all the materials I need to write my report” “Great. “Who _________ ___________that tie for you?” “No one. You still have to write the report and then word-process it” 18. and I scarcely studied for them at all” “Well. “Are you going to take that job?” “NO. but I think it was worth it 10. I’ll ____________ __________the laundry that you dropped off at the cleaners this morning 12. She’s just . but don’t be too quick to ____________yourself_____________ _________ ___________. “How did you do on your final exams?” “Great! I ___________them all _____________ ______________ __________ 19.9. You should study for the next quiz because it’s going to be a lot harder” 11. I decided to ____________it_________because I don’t want to relocate 16. if I were you. Right away Immediately you. I wouldn’t ___________my _______________any further. I have no idea. 3. Short for Show around Show off the penalty one deserves A nickname for Orient. Run a temperature Run for office Run into 8. 9. 23. 7. 19. so good Sooner or later Speak one’s mind Speak up day Gradually. 24. be in . check on. feel differently Measure. me See eye to eye (with someone) Have 14. 22. 29. 5. Run late Run of the mill Run out of Save one’s breath Search me 13.2. give a tour Try to attract attention by unusual 20. fix Receive the proper punishment. steadily but not quickly Very busy Up until now. get 17. 21. 31. beats the same opinion. 27. (on something) See (someone) off agreement Accompany (to an airport or train 15. for example) Change one’s opinion. 16. for example) Take care off. estimate Postpone a decision until the next Slowly but surely Snowed under So far. there are no problems At some indefinite future time Say what one is thinking Speak more loudly 26. Rule out primitive conditions Say something is impossible. 6. 10. 12. bump into (2)Collide with Be late. See to Serve one right station. Show up Shut down Sign up (for) Sing another tune Size up Sleep on it behavior Arrive Close Enroll (for a class. be in a hurry Ordinary Exhaust the supply of Don’t bother asking someone I don’t know. 28. 11. or eliminate Have a fever Try to get elected (1)Meet unexpectedly. 25. Ring a bell (with) Rough it Sound familiar to Experience somewhat difficult 4. 18. 30. explain in detail Exercise : Fill in the blanks in the sentences or dialogs with idioms from the list above.” 9. you have to _____________things ________ ____________Frank. 1. I just ______________him _____________at the airport” 2. It may be necessary to change the verb forms in order for the sentence to be grammatically correct. Bennet would be ___________ ____________ ________ if Tina had told that kind of story about him” . “Did you _________ __________ ___________Professor Charmichael’s class? “NO. When the factory ____________________ ______________. There will be one word per blank. “Have you ever heard of an actor named Anthony Reed?” “Hmm… I don’t think so. “Bennet thought those stories Tina told about you were pretty funny” “They weren’t funny. I was late because I __________ ____________ __________gasoline 4. does he?” “No. how’s that project you’re working on coming along?” “______________ _______________ ______________ _____________. If you wait to write them down. The name doesn’t ______________ ___________ __________ __________me at all. “Has John gone back to Minneapolis yest?” “Yes.32.” 10. Speak up for Spell out (for) Support verbally Make something very clear. I’d heard that the clothes in this store were very nice. they were embarrassing. “This pipe is leaking again” “We’d better have a plumber ___________ _____________it” 3. 5. 33. but the tricky part will be next week” 8. hundreds of workers were laid off 6. I decided to take Professor Knudson’s class instead. But I found them ________________ ______________ ____________ 11. “Frank doesn’t take a hint very well. “Vicki.” 7. Write down your ideas ______________ _________________. He likes everything crystal clear. you may forget them. I don’t like to go to parties too early. my cousin Melissa is a student there. “I understand you’re learning how to speak Russian. I ______________ ______________my old friend Leslie downtown yesterday. “Are you going to medical school?” “Not this year. Political campaigns cost a lot of money. My brother and I agree on most issues. I hadn’t seen her for months. 20. I think I’ll ask Pat to contribute” “______________your_________________.” “Yes. “Have a busy night at the restaurant?” “We weren’t just busy – we were __________ _________! I’ve never seen so many customers!” 23. He prefers to stay at luxury hotels. I’m ____________ __________getting the hang of it. but I wouldn’t __________it _____________in the future” 19. do you plan to buy this motorcycle or not?” “I’m still not sure. “So. especially at first. 15. “Have you seen the campus yet?” “Yes. I have a terrible cold or maybe even the flu” “Are you __________ ___________ ____________? If you have a fever. “I’m collecting money for the Red Cross. Norman doesn’t like to _____________ _____________when he goes on vacation. but I sure don’t _________ ___________ __________ _________ _________him ___________this proposal to build a new stadium Lesson 10 1. Can I ____________ ____________ it and let you know tomorrow morning?” 16.12. I’d rather __________ ___________ a little bit late. spotless . 13. It’s expensive to ___________ _____________ ____________these days. 14. “Your sister’s name is Jessie?” “That’s what everyone calls her – it’s _________ _________Jessica. Now. Spick and span Extremely clean. 21. and it was really hard for me. then you probably have the flu” 24. “I feel terrible. and she ___________ me _____________ 17. Pat never contributes to anything 18. though.” 22. close to Visit informally. 1. represent Be noticeable Not come home Come home (or go to bed) very late Not go to bed Not change. It may be necessary to change the verb forms in order for the sentence to be grammatically correct. exploit Resemble. 3. Stack up against Stamp out Stand for (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) Stand out Stay out Stay out (or up) to all hours Stay up Stick with Stock up on A stone’s throw from Stop by Straighten up Stuck with Compare with Eliminate. put up with (2)Symbolize. have permitted doctors to virtually ____________ ____________ a number of diseases. wipe out (1)Tolerate.” “Do you _________ __________ your mother or father?” “I don’t think I look much like either one of them” Earl had no trouble ____________ _____________the engine on the lawn mower. . 4. drain energy (16) Take advantage of (17) Take after from someone Utilize. There will be one word per blank. go to see Clean up. Vaccines 2. look like (especially an (18) Take apart (19) Take it easy older relative) Disassemble Relax. including smallpox and polio “How late do you usually __________ _______________?” “I’m normally in bed by eleven on weekdays” “How late do you usually _____________ ___________on weekends?” “I sometimes don’t come home until two or three in the morning. make use of. make tidy Have something one cannot get rid (13) Take a break (14) Take a lot of nerve (15) Take a lot out of (someone) of Stop working for a short time Require a lot of courage Be hard on someone. 5. but then he couldn’t put it back together. 4.2. 3. stay with Get a large supply of something Not far away from. calm down Exercise : Fill in the blanks in the sentences or dialogs with idioms from the list above. “Do you _____________ the American ___________your flag _____________ apartment before guests ___________ ____________?” “A little bit. you’ll figure it out. Why don’t you ___________ ___________ _________and finish your homework later? 7. The fifty stars on ____________the fifty states. “I tried and tried to find a buyer for this old car. You look a little tired. I’d be afraid to take a risk like that. “My new roommate is from Italy” “You should ___________ ________________ ____________ this opportunity to learn some Italian” 17. I don’t mind if it’s a little messy. Eventually. 12.6.” “Looks like you’re _____________ ____________it for now” 9.” 11. 15. When she caught one student cheating on the mid-term exam. The teacher won’t __________ ________cheating. You’ll make a better impression if you’re relaxed. “I’m nervous about my interview” “______ _________ ___________. “I just heard on the news that the Florida orange crop was damaged by the hurricane last week. “I give up. My brother is going to invest all his savings in a new business venture” “That ________ __________ ___________ ___________ __________.” 10. I can’t solve this chemistry problem” “__________ _______________it. Don was wearing jeans and a T-shirt while all the other guests had on formal dinner wear. He really _________ _________ 13. and that orange juice prices are going to go way up.” 14. We have to leave the apartment ___________ ___________ ____________.” . but I don’t want it to look like a disaster area” 16. we’d lose part of our security deposit. she gave him a zero on that test. 8. The landlord said that if it wasn’t clean when we moved out. My apartment building is just _____________ _________ ___________ __________ hers. but it __________ _____________ ______________ ____________ ______________ me. they’re both good. we could __________ ____________ _____________ frozen orange juice now and we wouldn’t have to pay those prices” 18. “Tim. but the service is better at Chez Michele.” .“If we had a big freezer.” 20. “SO you ran in that ten-kilometer race?” “Yes. you’ve eaten at both these restaurants – how does Chez Michele __________ _________ ________the Oak room? “Oh. “Do you live near Cecilia?” “Oh sure.” 19. I think the Oak Room has slightly better food. I can hardly move.