Each example below contains an
idiom related to a tool. Can you guess the meaning of each idiom
from the context? Try to match each idiom (1-6) with its
definition (a-f).
That student is as
sharp as a tack. He learns everything fast and
knows a lot about computers.
Let's stopping fighting and forgive each other. Let's
bury the hatchet.
I
saw an exciting baseball game last night. I was
on pins and needles all the time,
hoping the Toronto Blue Jays would win.
He really likes that sports car, and he will get it eventually -
by hook or by crook.
See that man over there? He keeps laughing and talking to himself.
I think he has a screw loose.
I
have an axe to grind with my
boss. I want to talk to him about my year-end bonus.
Idiom
Definition
1. as
sharp as a tack
a. very nervous and
anxious
2. bury
the hatchet
b. by any means; by any
possible way
3. on
pins and needles
c. very clever,
intelligent
4. by
hook or by crook
d. to be crazy
5. to
have a screw loose
e. to agree not to be
enemies anymore
6. an
axe to grind
f. a point to
discuss or argue about
"Even when I was small, I could
read the newspaper. I was
as sharp as a tack!"
More Practice:
A. Complete the
sentences with an appropriate idiom:
1. A: I love that motorbike!
B:
Are you going to buy it?
A: You bet I am. I'm gonna get it
.
2. A: I have no idea what
the professor is talking about.
B: Why
don't you ask John to help you out? He'll know. He's as
.
3. A: Are you still fighting
with your boyfriend?
B: No, we
have decided to
and try to work things out.
4.
A: You seem to be . Why are you so nervous?
B: I'm going to see the doctor today -
I will find out if I'm pregnant or not.
5. A: Have you got a second?
I have with you.
B: About
what?
A: About
sharing housework.
B: Oh...
6. A: It's freezing outside,
and Paul went out without a jacket!
