Each example below has an
idiom with a number. Can you guess the meaning of each idiom from
the context? Try to match each idiom (1-7) with its definition
(a-f).
*There are two idioms with the
same meaning.
John was on cloud
nine because he had a promotion and a huge salary
increase.
Jim was in seventh
heaven because Mary agreed to go out with him.
I'm of two minds
about my future: Shall I stay in Canada or shall I go to Japan?
She is gifted with languages, so learning to
speak Japanese is second nature
to her.
Joe is going to meet the Emperor so he is dressed to the nines.
The food at that new Italian restaurant is
second to none. You have
to go and try it.
I was thinking of going out tonight, but
on second thought, I decided to
stay home and watch TV instead.
Idiom
Definition
1. on
cloud nine
a. having trouble making
a decision
2. in
seventh heaven
b. very happy
3. of
two minds
c. the very best
4.
second nature
d. changing one's mind
after thinking more about something
5.
dressed to the nines
e. easy and natural to
do something
6.
second to none
f. dressed formally and
elaborately
7. on
second thought
"Writing with a pen is
second nature
to me!"
More Practice:
A. Each sentence below
has an idiom, but there is something wrong with each idiom. Can
you find and correct each one?
1. Nancy won the lottery so she was on
seven heavens.
2. This ice cream is so tasty!
It's second to non.
3. I'm of two mind about this weekend:
should I go hiking with John or dancing with Joe?
On second thoughts, I
think I'll stay home and watch TV instead.
4. Ichiro was on clouds nine when he
learned that he passed the university entrance
exam.
5. Everyone at the dinner party was
dressed to the nine.
