In the following questions four alternatives are given for the idiom/phrase italicised and underlined in the sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of idiom/phrase.
Harassed by repeated acts of injustice, he decided to put his foot down.
Answer: A
It means not to yield.
To put one's foot down is to take a firm stand and refuse to give way.
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The class could not keep a straight face on hearing the strange pronunciation of the new teacher.
Answer: B
It means remain serious.
To keep a straight face is to avoid laughing when something is funny.
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The parliamentary inquiry did not bring to light any startling facts.
Answer: D
It means disclose.
To bring something to light is to reveal what was hidden.
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His speech went down well with the majority of the audience.
Answer: C
It means was appreciated by.
To go down well is to be well received, as food is well digested.
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Rohit has bitten off more than he can chew.
Answer: A
It means is trying to do too much.
To bite off more than one can chew is to take on more than one can manage.
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The detective left no stone unturned to trace the culprit.
Answer: D
It means used all available means.
To leave no stone unturned is to try every possible expedient, from the oracle's advice to a Theban who was told to turn every stone to find the treasure.
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The authorities took him to task for his negligence.
Answer: C
It means reprimanded him.
To take someone to task is to call them to account and rebuke them.
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In spite of the pressure exerted by the militants, the government has decided not to give in.
Answer: B
It means yield.
To give in is to stop resisting and submit. Accede is close but means to agree to a proposal rather than to be worn down.
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Their business is now on its last legs.
Answer: B
It means about to perish.
To be on its last legs is to be worn out and near collapse.
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He went back on his promise to vote for me.
Answer: A
It means withdrew.
To go back on a promise is to fail to keep it.
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