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Idioms - Exercise 1

Directions: In each of the following sentences, a common expression--an idiom--can replace the word or phrase in parentheses. In the blank below each sentence, write the idiom defined by the word or phrase in parentheses. When you are finished, click the "Check My Work" button at the bottom of the page to check your answers. Choose from the following expressions:

about to all of a sudden at hand at least by heart

hard to believe in the meantime in the way inside out

no use on the verge of out of date

1. Our economic crisis is the issue (of priority).


2. When I could not button my shirt, I realized that it was (in a reversed position).


3. There's (no value in) going to the pool if we don't have swimming suits.


4. The haircut I wore in high school looks strange and (in an old style) now.


5. Anne knows the song (from memory).


6. I could not see the moon because a tall tree was (an obstacle).


7. (Suddenly,) the storm clouds parted, and the sun began to shine.


8. Michael is (almost ready to be) completing his first novel.


9. It is (difficult to accept as true) that he sold valuable jewelry for a small price.


10. Jim was (almost ready to) eat dinner when his phone rang.

For further information on these resources, contact

Margaret L. Benner
Director, Writing Support Program
English Department
Towson University
benner@towson.edu