Essential Idioms

Choose the choice that suitably completes the sentence.

1. I met him quite _____ accident on Fifth Avenue.
a. on
b. in
c. by
d. with
2. He was discharged from the army _____ account _____ his
poor health.
a. on _____ of
b. in _____ with c. on _____ on
d. to _____ of
3. It is necessary to pay _____ advance for the registration.
a. in
b. for
c. after
d. with
4. He is always _____ me to go into business with him.
a. after
b. for
c. with
d. at
5. They say that the President will go _____ the air tonight at
ten oclock.
a. with
b. in
c. on
d. over
6. As a matter _____ fact, there are as many oranges grown in
California as in Florida.
a. with
b. on
c. by
d. of
7. As long _____ they dont annoy us, we cannot take any
legal action.
a. so
b. that
c. as
d. with
8. As _____ his lack of education, there is nothing he can do
about it now.
a. to
b. if
c. so
d. in
9. The prisoner who escaped is still _____ large.
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

a. as

b.. at

c. over

d. in

10. _____ times he prepares his lessons well; at other times

he does very poor work.
a. On
b. In
c. By
d. At
11. He seems more attached _____ his dog than to his wife.
a. to
b. with
c. on
d. in
12. Most members were against Mr. Jones, who would have
lost his position if you hadnt been backed him _____.
a. up
b. down
c. before d. on
13. It shouldnt be difficult for you. Bear _____ mind that
these are sixty-five-year-old men.
a. with
b. on
c. in
d. before
14. He returned to his hotel _____ time for a late supper.
a. with
b. in
c. down
d. after
15. Instead of answering my question about his marks, he
began to beat _____ the bush and tell me all about the
difference courses he was talking.
a. around b. about
c. over
d. inside
16. Completely surrounded by our troops, the enemy finally
gave _____.
a. away
b. upon
c. in
d. out
17. Our car broke _____ and had to be towed to a garage.
a. away
b. forth
c. in
d. down
18. Offices and professors rooms were broken _____ and files
removed.
a. up
b. down
c. on
d. into
19. What brought _____ his illness?
a. down
b. about
c. forward d. out

Essential Idioms for intermediate students :

by Kru Pangchan

20. Stevens brought _____ the question of finances at the

family dinner table.
a. about
b. up
c. down
d. on
21. Since there was no need to become excited, I told him to
calm _____ and wait his turn with the others.
a. off
b. down
c. on
d. with
22. We have carried _____ a correspondence for years.
a. on
b. about
c. in
d. after
23. He promised that he would carry _____ every one of her
wishes.
a. into
b. about
c. out
d. around
24. _____ case he arrives before I get back, please ask him to
wait.
a. In
b. On
c. With
d. To
25. Being a foreigner, Carl did not catch _____ to the joke.
a. after
b. in
c. on
d. over
26. The dresses from that movie are beginning to catch
_____.
a. after
b. in
c. on
d. over
27. I met my former boyfriend _____ chance in the farewell
party.
a. in
b. by
c. on
d. of
28. The record shows that he checked _____ at the hotel on
Monday, and checked out Tuesday night.
a. into
b. in
c. up
d. over
29. No one knows when such a custom first came _____
existence.
a. into
b. on
c. of
d. with
30. I never thought I would ever have anything _____
common with George.
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

a. up

b. off

c. in

d. without

31. He is not stupid; _____ the contrary, he is very intelligent.

a. to
b. on
c. in
d. up
32. You can count _____ me, if you are in trouble.
a. up
b. to
c. on
d. off
33. The police cracked _____ on drug traffickers.
a. up
b. over
c. upon
d. down
34. Day _____ day he seems to grow a little stronger.
a. in
b. after
c. by
d. over
35. The shop deals only _____ trousers.
a. with
b. in
c. about
d. of
36. They learned to deal _____ any sort of emergency.
a. with
b. in
c. on
d. after
37. Traditional grocers shops are fast dying _____ now that
there are so many supermarkets.
a. away
b. down
c. out
d. up
38. To protect our environment, we have to know how to
dispose _____ toxic chemicals in suitable ways.
a. about
b. of
c. out
d. off
39. It would be nice to do away _____ all the paperwork that
is usually involved.
a. with
b. over
c. after
d. in
40. Taxes are so high this year that we shall have to do _____
a new car.
a. up
b. on
c. without d. over
41. When I met her she was all dressed _____ in her new
mink coat.
a. over
b. up
c. with
d. on
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

42. Mr. Evans dropped _____ my office yesterday to talk with

me about new book he is writing.
a. off
b. away
c. by
d. in
43. In the middle of our conversation he suddenly dropped
_____ to sleep.
a. on
b. away
c. out
d. at
44. There were only two prison wardens _____ duty when the
riot started.
a. on
b. in
c. with
d. by
45. When Im _____ duty I take a rest.
a. on
b. off
c. without d. up
46. Ocean waves are gradually eating _____ the coastal
rocks.
a. out
b. away
c. up
d. in
47. We prefer to eat at home, but once in a while we eat
_____.
a. out
b. away
c. up
d. in
48. I told him that he had better eat _____ his meal if he
wanted to get any dessert.
a. out
b. off
c. up
d. away
49. Becoming more and more frightened at the snarling dog,
Mary began to edge _____.
a. on
b. in
c. away
d. off
50. I have been _____ edge all day ever since that argument
with my wife.
a. on
b. in
c. upon
d. with
51.
Two days ago, a water-pipe burst _____ night near
my home. Later that night, I heard a police car outside
the building.
a. at
b. during c. in
d. on
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

52. We must leave _____ exactly five oclock.

a. in
b. on
c. at
d. of
53. We will come _____ September 5th.
a. on
b. at
c. in
d. of
54. She can have two of these books. Tell her to pick _____
the ones she wants.
a. off
b. out
c. up
d. away
55. Are you going to apply _____ the job?
a. for
b. with
c. to
d. into
56. I disagree _____ Peter but I agree _____ do nothing until
we know more about the case.
a. to____to b. with____to
c. with____with d.
to____about
57.
Mary: What are you looking in that book _____?
John: I want to find out something _____ butterflies.
a. to____for b. for____about
c. with____to d.
in____on
58. Last year, many countries were suffering _____ the
effects of the recent recession.
a. from
b. by
c. with
d. about
59. My uncle burst _____ laughing when I told him the joke
about Peter and the mouse.
a. with
b. against c. into
d. out
60. On my way to school, I saw a taxi collide _____ with a
bus.
a. with
b. into
c. against d. at
61. Im sorry. I cant lend you anything at the moment
because Im short _____ money myself.
a. of
b. in
c. with
d. to
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

62. Sometimes people look down _____ you, if you dont

speak properly.
a. to
b. at
c. up
d. on
63. _____ conclusion, I should like to say how grateful we are
to Mr. Thomson for coming here this evening to speak to
us.
a. By
b. In
c. For
d. On
64. It is more polite to laugh _____ somebody than to laugh
_____ a person.
a. about____at
b. at____about
c. to____wih
d. with____at
65. Tourism plays an important part _____ the life of many
countries.
a. at
b. to
c. in
d. about
66. Mary promised to wait _____ us at the bus station.
a. for
b. in
c. to
d. from
67. We can work quietly in the library and nobody can
interfere _____ our work.
a. to
b. with
c. on
d. at
68.
Mary: What are you searching _____?
John: Ive lost my keys.
a. over
b. at
c. into
d. for
69.
I should like to inform you _____ the facts so that you
can arrive _____ a fair decision.
a. of____at b. about____to
c. with____in
d.
in____on
70. I am very fond of Peter. Although we are not relatives, I
look _____ him as a brother.
a. for
b. at
c. upon
d. into

Essential Idioms for intermediate students :

by Kru Pangchan

71. If you come to live here, you must adapt yourself _____
conditions here.
a. against b. for
c. to
d. with
72. If the typhoon keeps _____ its person course, it will come
very near Hong Kong.
a. along
b. by
c. at
d. on
73. The firemen are coming. They will soon put the fire _____.
a. out
b. down
c. off
d. under
74. Well, do you want to buy it or not. Please make _____
your mind.
a. out
b. up
c. away
d. off
75. That man looks worn _____. I think he has been working
too hard.
a. out
b. down
c. away
d. off
76. This torch is definitely superior _____ that one.
a. than
b. for
c. to
d. about
77. There are four hundred passengers _____ board that liner.
a. with
b. in
c. on
d. at
78. The committee consists _____ twelve members only.
a. of
b. on
c. in
d. with
79. This type of cloth is inferior _____ the type you bought
last week.
a. to
b. than
c. against d. for
80. Can that firm supply us _____ all the stationery we need?
a. of
b. with
c. by
d. on
81. When we go to the Youth Centre tomorrow evening, Ill
introduce you _____ the secretary.
a. with
b. by
c. to
d. upon

Essential Idioms for intermediate students :

by Kru Pangchan

82. Foreign firms have agreed to participate _____ the

scheme to build a new tunnel.
a. at
b. to
c. in
d. with
83. I am not satisfied _____ his work and expect him to carry
out his assignments _____ much greater care and accuracy.
a. to____by b. about____along
c. with____wth d.
by____on
84. Nobody likes a person who is always showing _____ his
wealth.
a. at
b. to
c. of
d. off
85. The playground is _____ the cinema.
a. closed to
b. close with
d. close at

c. close to

86. I had to fill _____ three forms to obtain a passport.

a. at
b. in
c. for
d. into
87. The inter-school hockey match was called _____ because
of the rain.
a. out
b. of
c. off
d. away
88. He has been absent _____ school for one week.
a. away
b. outside c. from
d. without
89. Stockall Stores are selling clothes _____ very low prices
last week.
a. away from
b. outside c. from
d. at
90. He reminds me _____ my former boyfriend.
a. of
b. to
c. in
d. for
91. They have not a formal contract, but he is, _____ effect,
her manager.
a. on
b. with
c. after
d. in
92. Please keep an eye _____ my suitcase while I go to buy
my ticket.
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

a. in

b. after

c. on

d. with

93. I hadnt seen him in ten years when suddenly there we

stood, face _____ face.
a. with
b. to
c. out
d. in
94. He appears to be strong and healthy, but, as a matter
_____ fact, he suffers from a very weak heart.
a. of
b. in
c. on
d. up
95. You were _____ fault for speaking to him so sharply.
a. at
b. on
c. with
d. upon
96. I am fed _____ with his laziness.
a. to
b. about
c. up

d. after

97. I cant figure _____ what he was hinting at.

a. out
b. over
c. with
d. of
98. Do you have an application _____ file with us?
a. in
b. on
c. within
d. over
99. There are one or two lines more on this application which
you must fill _____.
a. in
b. up
c. on
d. with
100. Every place he had to fill _____ and application blank
before they would interview him.
a. out
b. with
c. of
d. after
101. I have no objection _____ their scheme at the moment.
a. to
b. at
c. on
d. against
102. He specializes _____ old French stamps.
a. at
b. in
c. for
d. with
103. I have great confidence _____ him.
a. of
b. with
c. on
d. in
104. The referee was angry _____ on of the players.
a. to
b. with
c. at
d. against
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

10

105. He succeeded _____ persuading the man to reduce the

price.
a. for
b. at
c. in
d. to
106. We congratulated him _____ his success in the
competition.
a. at
b. with
c. by
d. upon
107. We all sympathize _____ the villagers in trouble.
a. with
b. about
c. to
d. for
108. In contrast _____ what you have said, I think the plan is a
good one.
a. to
b. with
c. at
d. by
109. Tell me your reasons _____ refusing the invitation.
a. about
b. for
c. in
d. with
110. I shall have to concentrate _____ my examinations soon.
a. for
b. at
c. with
d. on
111. Major Smith has now been promoted _____ the rank of
general.
a. up
b. at
c. to
d. for
112. He reminds me _____ my former boyfriend.
a. of
b. to
c. in
d. for
113. Pop music is popular _____ young boys or girls.
a. in
b. with
c. to
d. of
114. It was kind _____ you to visit me.
a. to
b. for
c. of

d. in

115. Professor Adward has translated many Chinese books

_____ English.
a. for
b. with
c. into
d. after
116. As my feet were cold, I put _____ my stockings.
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

11

a. over

b. in

c. on

d. with

117. This machine wont work. I wonder what is the matter

_____ it.
a. for
b. with
c. of
d. by
118. We got to the field just _____ time to see the end of the
game.
a. at
b. in
c. by
d. for
119. I heard an interesting piece of news _____ the radio.
a. at
b. with
c. from
d. on
120. I felt sorry _____ my friend, Tom, when he failed his
examination.
a. at
b. to
c. for
d. on
121. After the war he decided to leave Germany _____ good.
a. in
b. for
c. on
d. of
122. The citizens were warned to be _____ guard against a
sudden night attack.
a. on
b. with
c. to
d. after
123. While living in South America, he got _____ the habit of
drinking strong black coffee.
a. into
b. of
c. in
d. out
124. Each student has to hand _____ a composition once a
week.
a. out
b. on
c. in
d. up
125. Christmas was _____ hand, and I still had no money to
buy Marge a present.
a. on
b. over
c. at
d. with
126. The police now have the situation well _____ hand, and
no further outbreaks are expected.
a. in
b. under
c. on
d. after
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

12

127. I would like to lay hands _____ the person who threw that
stone through our front window.
a. on
b. over
c. with
d. in
128. Thieves held him _____ in the park and took his watch
and a wallet.
a. on
b. up
c. over
d. by
129. She is a popular hostess because she has the happy
faculty of always making her guess feel _____ home.
a. in
b. at
c. off
d. into
130. Crime is certainly _____ the increase in many of our big
cities.
a. of
b. with
c. in
d. on
131. It is the wholesaler rather than the retailer who has
jacked _____ the prices.
a. on
b. with
c. up
d. over
132. You must keep _____ mind that he is too young to
understand complex concepts.
a. in
b. to
c. by
d. of
133. I have tried to keep in touch _____ her since I left
Thailand.
a. to
b. with
c. over
d. after
134. I keep _____ telling myself that being lazy is a sin.
a. over
b. out
c. in
d. on
135. Our limited budget makes it difficult for us to keep pace
_____ our goals.
a. with
b. away
c. of
d. on
136. It was his incomes policy which finally led _____ his
downfall.
a. from
b. to
c. about
d. off
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

13

137. If you cant go to the party, you should _____ least send
your regrets.
a. at
b. up
c. on
d. in
138. He promised to help me, but at the last minute he let me
_____.
a. out
b. in
c. down
d. up
139. At first he made poor progress in English, but little _____
little Albert became the best student in the class.
a. by
b. after
c. in
d. over
140. John has been unemployed for six months so he doesnt
have enough to live _____ now.
a. up
b. with
c. on
d. to
141. John has promised to look _____ my dog while I am away.
a. on
b. into
c. down on d. after
142. Just because they owned their own house and were
slightly better off, they always look _____ upon us as poor
friends.
a. up to
b. down
c. over
d. after
143. John looked everywhere _____ the ball which he had lost.
a. for
b. out
c. on
d. into
144. We are all looking forward _____ your visit.
a. with
b. to
c. in
d. out
145. The police are looking _____ the records of all those
involved in the murder.
a. into
b. about
c. for
d. out
146. John took part in the games, but the rest of us, who were
a little old for that sort of thing, just looked _____.
a. out
b. on
c. up to
d. after
147. I was about to step out in front of the oncoming truck
when somebody yelled to me to look _____.
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

14

a. around

b. over

c. out

d. into

148. You should look _____ all unfamiliar words in a dictionary.

a. out
b. up
c. on
d. into
149. He was _____ a loss to explain where he had put the
documents.
a. after
b. at
c. before d. to
150. We were asked to make ourselves _____ home during the
brief absence of our hostess.
a. in
b. at
c. with
d. about
151. Several MPs abstained _____ voting at the end of the
debate.
a. of
b. from
c. for
d. in
152. His behavior does not accord _____ my idea of a
gentleman.
a. on
b. to
c. in
d. with

153. The videos out of order.

Oh, that would account _____ the strange noise its
making.
a. for
b. about
c. on
d. over
154. Ive been accused _____ many things in my life, but
never of cowardice.
a. into
b. of
c. about
d. over
155. She thought she would never accustom herself _____
eating nothing but fruit and vegetables.
a. at
b. in
c. on
d. to
156. Im parched and positively aching _____ a cup of tea!
a. with
b. for
c. at
d. up
157. When I was a teacher I always made a point of acquaint
myself _____ the home background of all my pupils.
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

15

a. to

b. in

c. with

d. on

158. This play has been skillfully adapted _____ the original.
a. to
b. from
c. for
d. off
159. Well have to adapt the building _____ the needs of the
old people who are going to live in it.
a. to
b. from
c. for
d. on
160. He became addicted _____ drugs at quite an early age.
a. for
b. with
c. to
d. of
161. The police warned the public not to go _____ the escaped
prisoner, as he was armed and dangerous.
a. with
b. out
c. after
d. to
162. He told me to go _____ and design a small massproduction car.
a. along
b. ahead c. out with d. around
163. The child was quite unaware that she was being used as
a go- _____ by her elder sister and the married man next
door.
a. on
b. among c. between d. into
164. If anyone tries to break into the boot of the car, the
alarm will go _____.
a. out
b. of
c. off
d. up
165. We cant go _____ as though nothing has happened. It
has happened. Youve broken your promise.
a. off
b. on
c. out
d. with
166. This paint will adhere _____ any surface, whether rough
or smooth.
a. on
b. in
c. to
d. out
167. May I suggest that we adjourn the meeting _____ this
time tomorrow?
a. off
b. into
c. to
d. in
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

16

168. I dont think I shall ever be able to adjust myself _____

life in this remote place.
a. for
b. from
c. to
d. with
169. I wish you wouldnt afflict me _____ your complaints. Ive
enough problems of my own.
a. on
b. with
c. into
d. over
170. Im afraid I shall never agree _____ you about the
reintroduction of capital punishment.
a. to
b. for
c. with
d. on
171. I dont understand that girls behaviour. Whats she
aiming _____?
a. for
b. at
c. on
d. over
172. The mans unsociable behaviour gradually alienated him
_____ all his friends.
a. away
b. to
c. against d. from
173. Do not apply this ointment _____ the affected parts until
all dirt has been removed.
a. for
b. to
c. on
d. over
174. For further information, apply _____ the Company
Secretary.
a. to
b. on
c. for
d. into
175. To whom should I apply _____ a license?
a. to
b. on
c. for
d. with
176. There have been some peculiar goings- _____ in the
village recently, I can tell you!
a. up
b. out
c. on
d. off
177. Hand your papers _____ at the end of the exam.
a. out
b. off
c. over
d. in
178. Hang _____! Ill be back in a minute.
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

17

a. up

b. around c. about

d. on

179. After I hung _____ I realized I forgot to ask him his

telephone number.
a. up
b. on
c. over
d. out
180. It was the story of a schoolgirl whod had a crush _____ a
handsome man.
a. with
b. after
c. on
d. for
181. I certainly disapprove _____ you riding your motorbike
over the speed limit.
a. for
b. about
c. on
d. of
182. The companys poor trading record arises almost entirely
_____ the increase in interest rates.
a. over
b. from
c. on
d. for
183. The doctor was always associated in the childs mind
_____ injections and pain.
a. for
b. into
c. with
d. over
184. Shes become attached ____ someone she met at
university.
a. to
b. with
c. under
d. from
185. If she had attended _____ what her instructor told her,
she wouldnt have had an accident.
a. for
b. on
c. to
d. about
186. The government is finding it difficult to attract overseas
investment _____ the area.
a. to
b. through c. over
d. around
187. Mr. Dolittle attributes his good health _____ careful living.
a. for
b. on
c. to
d. with
188. Alex backed me _____ enthusiastically, as he always did.
a. in
b. upon
c. for
d. up
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
by Kru Pangchan

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189. An anonymous wellwisher bailed the prisoners _____.

a. off
b. away
c. over
d. out
190. His success in business is based _____ a shrewd
assessment of what the customer wants.
a. on / upon
b. with
c. of d. after
191. They now believe the gang is holed _____ somewhere in
Boston, but so far have few clues to work on.
a. in
b. up
c. with
d. within
192. Masked men held _____ a wages can in South London.
a. after
b. on
c. out
d. up
193. The government would not dare to impose taxes _____
such necessities as bread or milk.
a. after
b. in
c. on
d. from
194. On Sunday, afternoons, Joe would indulge _____ a short
sleep in his armchair.
a. upon
b. to
c. about
d. in
195. Some of the refugees were suffering from cholera and it
was not long before they had infected the drinking-supply
_____ the bacteria.
a. with
b. on
c. of
d. into
196. Were still _____ the man who broke into your shop
yesterday.
a. for
b. with
c. after
d. on
197. After last weeks jail break, several men are still _____
large.
a. at
b. on
c. against d. up
198. Shares in the telecommunications industries are _____ a
premium.
a. at
b. under
c. with
d. of
199. People working in this industry are _____ risk.
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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19

a. after

b. on

c. at

d. in

200. Now this is strictly _____ ourselves, but did you know that
David is being promoted next Monday?
a. among b. between c. with
d. over
201. We are looking for an experienced person to be _____
charge _____ research and development.
a. in ___ in b. on ___ with
c. in ___ of
d.
with ___ of
202. Are you still _____ touch _____ the people you knew at
college?
a. in ___ with
b. in ___ in c. with ___ on d. in
___ after
203. These buyers tend to be the relatively well- _____. They
buy a lot of expensive goods every time they do their
shopping.
a. to
b. off
c. on
d. upon
204. The fire brigades were _____ the scene within minutes of
being called.
a. into
b. off
c. on
d. over
205. Let me remind the accused that he is _____ trial for his
life.
a. of
b. on
c. over
d. in
206. Being too critical may inhabit a child _____ asking you
things be needs to know.
a. from
b. for
c. against d. about
207. She didnt really want tea, but Nurse Ellen insisted _____
making it.
a. in
b. on
c. for
d. of
208. She was always telling Jack to stop interfering _____ the
balance of nature.
a. into
b. with
c. on
d. from
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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20

209. He invested every spare minute _____ trying to improve

his knowledge of Chinese.
a. to
b. in
c. on
d. for
210. David had been involved _____ crimes that included
robbery, kidnapping, rape and murder.
a. with
b. between c. among d. in
211. I should be _____ my guard if I were you. Hes not
sort of man I should trust.
a. into
b. after
c. on
d. up

the

212. It was a steep climb to top. We were quite _____ breath.

a. out on b. out of
c. in out
d. of out
213. I can see I shall have to take you to go shopping: those
boots have been _____ fashion.
a. out of
b. in on
c. within
d. after over
214. The situation appears to be completely _____ hand.
a. out of
b. over of c. in on
d. of on
215. You must be _____of your minds if you think I would do
anything of the sort!
a. on
b. in
c. out
d. over
216. The life is _____ of order. Please use the stairs.
a. on
b. in
c. after
d. out
217. There arent any fresh strawberries: theyre just _____ of
seasons.
a. in
b. out
c. off
d. on
218. That was the last window he was going to do that
morning. And as it was Saturday, that meant that work was
_____ for the weekend.
a. over
b. out
c. off
d. up
219. Hes regained consciousness, which is a good sign, but
he isnt _____ the corner.
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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21

a. on

b. in

c. round

d. with

220. I wont put up with any more broken promises from him:
were _____.
a. over
b. down
c. up
d. through
221. It is wrong to try to isolate drug-taking _____ the general
condition of society; cure the ills of society and you cure
drug-taking.
a. with
b. into
c. from
d. on
222. Her son is an old skinflint. Always waiting to jack _____
the price.
a. over
b. on
c. up
d. in
223. Industry as a whole is trying to keep rising costs _____
bay.
a. at
b. over
c. in
d. on
224. Its a good idea Ill keep it _____ mind.
a. under
b. on
c. in
d. to
225. Through the media we are able to keep in touch _____
events on the other side of the world almost as they
happen.
a. of
b. with
c. on
d. about
226. The fire which threatened part of the business district
this morning is now firmly _____ control.
a. in
b. out
c. under
d. on
227. An internal police inquiry into the circumstances
surrounding the Davis case is still ____ way.
a. under
b. on
c. in
d. over
228. Our nation is very hard _____ and we are not supposed to
but luxurious goods from overseas.
a. over
b. after
c. up
d. down
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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22

229. Please bear _____ mind that our country (Thailand) is not
rich and powerful, therefore we should work harder to get
rid of poverty.
a. with
b. in
c. on
d. up
230. If youve bad news, dont beat _____ the bush: come
straight to the point.
a. into
b. on
c. about
d. over
231. Im only now beginning to realize how much I benefited
_____ my parents example.
a. from
b. of
c. after
d. in
232. Its not much use blaming our defeat _____ the weather!
a. of
b. on
c. against d. in
233. The bomb blew _____ with an ear-splitting crash.
a. out
b. off
c. up
d. away
234. I blew right _____, saying that I disagreed completely
with the conclusion of the report.
a. up
b. off
c. on
d. into
235. Our transport bogged _____ in the thick mud.
a. in
b. down
c. under
d. up
236. I dont know what would happen if we werent here to
keep an eye _____ you.
a. with
b. to
c. on
d. at
237. We can tailor the insurance policy according _____your
familys needs.
a. after
b. to
c. on
d. of
238. Design must keep pace _____ technological innovation; it
should neither lag behind it nor try to anticipate it.
a. after
b. behind c. with
d. on

Essential Idioms for intermediate students :

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23

239. If he tells you that youve won first prize, dont believe
him. Hes probably kidding you _____.
s. in
b. on/up
c. of
d. about
240. The traditional picture of an English Christmas includes a
table laden _____ food and drink.
a. over
b. of
c. with
d. on
241. She appeared to be pretty calm, but at times she would
break _____ and start weeping.
a. up
b. into
c. down
d. out
242.
Tell them that those inside need protection against
desperate characters who are trying to break _____ from
outside.
a. over
b. up
c. into
d. through
243.
Computers have brought _____ many changes in the
workplace.
a. up
b. about
c. back
d. off
244.
A national newspaper claims to have brought _____
light some important new evidence.
a. up
b. to
c. into
d. out
245.
I shall bring _____ this question in the next meeting.
a. out
b. up
c. over
d. about
246.
In my day, children were brought _____ to respect
the law.
a. into
b. up
c. on
d. with
247.
Youll have to brush _____ your history of art if you
want a job in the museum.
a. about
b. over
c. up
d. after
248.
I bumped _____ David in town this morning.
a. into
b. up
c. on
d. off
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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24

249.
Aunt Annabel, who has been nervous and jumpy
lately, suddenly burst _____ tears.
a. out
b. under
c. into
d. off
250.
I dont see any point in having a picnic in weather
like this. Lets call it _____.
a. up
b. on
c. at
d. off
251.
It seemed that he was going to lash out _____ her,
but he controlled himself.
a. against b. for
c. at
d. to
252.
In their withdrawal, much of the heavy equipment
had to be left _____.
a. behind b. out
c. in
d. off
253.
No, I dont want a nice warm drink. I just want to
be left _____ peace, if thats not too much to ask.
a. with
b. in
c. after
d. for
254.
Hes been let _____ so much in the past that he
trusts no one.
a. in
b. out
c. down
d. up
255.
Today these practices are no more, but their
memory lingers _____.
a. with
b. up
c. after
d. on
256.
I tried to call you _____ last night, but no one
answer the phone. Were you out?
a. with
b. out
c. up
d. on
257.
If this difficult phase of highways planning is to be
carried _____ efficiently, the engineer has to have all the
help that modern methods of survey can supply.
a. out
b. on
c. over
d. through
258.
The great problem is to prevent others cashing
_____ before weve had time to market the product.
a. on
b. in
c. over
d. through
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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25

259.
My new students did not catch _____ to what I
meant.
a. in
b. on
c. from
d. about
260.
Aerobics has caught _____ in Russia faster than
yoga, dieting or vegetarianism.
a. on
b. in
c. up
d. to
261.
He had to work hard to catch _____ with the rest.
a. on
b. for
c. up
d. to
262.
You can change you sterling _____ the local currency
at the airport.
a. over
b. to
c. with
d. into
263.
How much do they charge _____ washing a car?
a. about
b. on
c. for
d. of
264.
They had an accident on the road and didnt check
_____ their hotel until after midnight.
a. with
b. into (in) c. through d. up
265.
Has Mr. Jones left yet?
Yes, he checked _____ five minutes ago.
a. in
b. out
c. over
d. off
266.
I cant live _____ a hundred pound a week!
a. in
b. out
c. on
d. off
267.
I thought the nurse was looking _____ you.
a. after
b. into
c. out
d. up to
268.
Mr. Jackson looks down _____ anyone who hasnt
had a college education.
a. with
b. to
c. on
d. over
269.
Police are looking _____ the disappearance of a
quantity of uncut gems.
a. out
b. into
c. up to
d. on
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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26

270.
He is looked _____ as something of an authority on
rare books.
a. on/upon b. for
c. after
d. over
271.
Ill give you till tomorrow to chew _____ my offer;
then you can take it or leave it.
a. around b. about
c. on
d. of
272.
Did you come _____ any old photographs of the
family when you were looking through the attic.
a. after
b. along
c. across d. apart
273.
Do you know when Parliament first came _____
existence?
a. into
b. on
c. off
d. under
274.
If we compare the figures for violent crime _____
those for last year, we notice a marked increase.
a. upon
b. with
c. up
d. into
275.
Nothing will ever compensate him _____ the injuries
he received in the accident.
a. against b. about
c. for
d. with
276.
Small suburban shops cant compete _____ the
chain-stores in price, though they can do so in personal
service.
a. in
b. of
c. with
d. over
277.
When you become a member of a club you
generally agree to comply _____ the rules.
a. to
b. with
c. after
d. before
278.
The village was composed _____ two or three groups
of thatched cottages, a church, a post-office and a small
general store.
a. of
b. with
c. between d. among
279.
Nearly every strike is settled by employers
compromising _____ their labour force.
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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27

a. from

b. for

c. with

d. under

280.
I cant concentrate _____, what Im doing while that
noise is going on.
a. with
b. on (upon)
c. about d. in
281.
Tell them to look _____, the ceiling is threatening to
fall in.
a. for
b. into
c. out
d. through
282.
He comes back with an enormous dictionary, sits
down and looks _____ the word.
a. over
b. up
c. for
d. up to
283.
Ive always looked up _____ Bill for courage and
determination.
a. to
b. for
c. on
d. after
284.
We all make fun _____ him, behind his back, of
course.
a. with
b. of
c. to
d. about
285.
Make the most _____ your life because life is a
holiday from the dark.
a. in
b. with
c. of
d. on
286.
The juries were instructed to confine their attention
_____ the facts, and to ignore anything that could be
described as hearsay.
a. of
b. to
c. on
d. over
287.
The policemans story conflicts _____ that of the
accused.
a. on
b. into
c. about
d. with
288.
Joes a born rebel: he just cant conform _____ the
ordinary rules of society.
a. for
b. to/with c. on
d. of

Essential Idioms for intermediate students :

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28

289.
I am writing to congratulate you most sincerely
_____ your recent election to the Senate.
a. on/upon b. about
c. over
d. for
290.
In Scotland, the jury consists _____ fifteen people,
not twelve as in England.
a. on
b. of
c. with
d. about
291.
The Princes support has contributed substantially
_____ raising public awareness of environmental issues.
a. on
b. in
c. to/towards
d. into
292.
A lot of old people had difficult in converting the old
currency _____ the new.
a. of
b. into
c. from
d. for
293.
Sorry! I just took it _____ granted that youd want to
come.
a. in
b. for
c. from
d. out
294.
You can count _____ Bill for a pound or two when
youre in trouble.
a. in
b. up
c. on/upon d. for
295.
Most foreign trading companies in West Africa deal
_____ rubber, cocoa and vegetables oils.
a. in
b. on
c. out
d. for
296.
I can never make sense _____ a word he says.
a. about
b. with
c. on
d. of
297.
Very few operators make use _____ all the facilities
a. off
b. of
c. in
d. for
298.
I could never makes _____ if they needed money or
not.
a. up
b. up for
c. out
d. over
299.
You cant go around making _____ things about
being assaulted by people who dont exist.
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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29

a. over

b. up

c. out

d. with

300.
We rehearsed all day Saturday, to make up _____
lost time.
a. for
b. with
c. in
d. out
301.
Youre not going out to play until youve eaten all
your carrots _____.
a. off
b. up
c. out
d. away
302.
How do you know that Janes going to have a
baby? You must have been eavesdropping _____ our
conversation.
a. in
b. up
c. back
d on
303.
In the first round of the FA Cup most of the amateur
teams were eliminated _____ the competition.
a. from
b. out
c. away
d. off
304.
Deep-seas trawlers are now equipped _____
electronic devices.
a. on
b. up
c. with
d. about
305.
During the war hundreds of thousands of children
were evacuated _____ industrial _____ rural areas.
a. from _____ in
b. from _____ to c. to _____ to
d. with _____ to
306.
Nobody should be exempt _____ doing some of the
unpleasant jobs around the camp.
a. of
b. out
c. from
d. with
307.
Many political rebels of the time ended their days
exiled _____ their native regions.
a. out
b. off
c. away
d. from
308.
In such a small house it is important to have some
method of expelling cooking smells _____ the kitchen.
a. from
b. away
c. out
d. about
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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30

309.
No one should expose himself _____ sunburn.
a. with
b. to
c. on
d. up
310.
It is one thing to locate oil, but quite another to
extract it _____ the earth and transport it to the centres
of industry.
a. out
b. into
c. from
d. up
311.
I just saw him down the end of the passage. I
screamed and he sort of faded _____.
a. off
b. under
c. over
d. away
312.
Of course the children look undernourished. Their
mother cant afford to feed them _____ meat and fish
every day!
a. with
b. on
c. over
d. into
313.
They were getting a bit fed up _____ her by that
time, so they wrote her rather a sharp letter.
a. in
b. on
c. with
d. about
314.
Fill _____ your address at the bottom of the
application form.
a. with
b. off
c. on
d. in
315.
Following the recent heavy rains, the storage tanks
filling _____ again.
a. to
b. up
c. with
d. into
316.
Members of religious communities dedicate their
whole lives _____ Gods service.
a. to
b. over
c. in
d. for
317.
I depend _____ my car a lot for my freedom.
a. with
b. of
c. on
d. for
318.
The new laws threaten to deprive many people
_____ the most elementary freedom.
a. from
b. of
c. for
d. away
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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31

319.
I have derived most of my concepts _____ those of
Freud.
a. in
b. of
c. from
d. with
320.
The debate deteriorated _____ a bitter quarrel
between the party leaders.
a. from
b. in
c. for
d. into
321.
Ghandi devoted his whole life _____ the cause of
peace.
a. to
b. for
c. on
d. after
322.
Only those species able to adapt to changing
conditions survived. The others died _____.
a. down
b. away
c. for
d. out
323.
The two parties differ very sharply _____ each other
over the correct remedies to apply.
a. between b. among c. from
d. in
324.
He would go to the corner restaurant and dine _____
half a chicken and salad, washed down with white wine.
a. with
b. on/off
c. over
d. for
325.
Tony shaved off his beard before the interview: he
knew of employers who strongly disapproved _____ facial
hair.
a. against b. into
c. of
d. about
326.
Pay increases will not always make _____ for poor
working conditions.
a. on
b. up
c. with
d. in
327.
Ill make a deal _____ you. you can have the plans if
you split the profit with us.
a. for
b. over
c. towards d. with
328.
Somebodys been meddling _____ the photographs I
laid out so carefully.
a. with
b. up
c. about
d. off
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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32

329.
Dont ask them to organize your itinerary: they
made a complete mess _____ of ours.
a. over
b. up
c. on
d. out
330.
I think that shes
been very mixed _____ and she feels as if shes had to
fight the whole world.
a. up
b. with
c. up with d. up in
331.
She was discharged _____ the intensive care unit
last week and transferred to a general ward.
a. away
b. off
c. out
d. from
332.
Try to discourage him _____ driving back to London
tonight.
a. to
b. from
c. on
d. with
333.
There is evidence that some employers
discriminate _____ women applicants.
a. down
b. between c. against d. off
334.
He cant distinguish _____ a genuine antique and a
reproduction.
a. with
b. between c. in
d. against
335.
He could not help having his mind diverted _____ his
anxieties by the rush of Bangkok life.
a. off
b. out
c. for
d. from
336.
The death penalty has been done away _____ in
many European countries.
a. out
b. with
c. off
d. on
337.
In the evening we would drop _____ a roadside pub
for a beer and sandwich.
a. for
b. off
c. into
d. out
338.
I felt myself dropping _____ in the middle of the
second act.
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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33

a. for

b. off

c. into

d. out

339.
There is a close connection between early drop_____ and delinquency.
a. for
b. off
c. out
d. with
340.
You can see from here how the river bank is slowly
being eaten _____.
a. out
b. into
c. away
d. up
341.
The prospect of a week in their seaside cottage was
pleasant to muse _____.
a. about
b. on
c. over
d. of
342.
The new transport plan is objected _____ by nearly
all the interested parties.
a. against b. on
c. to
d. with
343.
Despite their financial and other problems, Henri and
Jean were still able to participate _____ the social life of
Paris.
a. into
b. up
c. on
d. in
344.
My, fancy that being a real burglar last night. Id
have passed _____ if Id know.
a. off
b. before c. out
d. over
345.
The factory was laying people _____.
a. off
b. out
c. down
d. about
346.
I know nothing about this job, but finding _____ will
be enjoyable.
a. off
b. out
c. for
d. into
347.
Public attention at the moment is focused _____ the
problems of a declining economy.
a. to
b. on
c. with
d. after

Essential Idioms for intermediate students :

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34

348.
Everyone knows hes been fooling _____ with Bills
wife.
a. after
b. out
c. around d. with
349.
The typical career pattern was geared _____ men
whose wives didnt work.
a. to
b. on
c. upon
d. with
350.
The comedian didnt seem to be able to get his
jokes _____ to his audience.
a. for
b. before c. after
d. across
351.
As its a first offence, the solicitor said, I think
shell get away _____ a fine.
a. out
b. along
c. on
d. with
352.
The constant noise of aircraft flying overhead gets
_____ everyones nerves.
a. out
b. on
c. with
d. off
353.
The children quickly get _____ of hand when there
isnt an adult around.
a. away
b. off
c. in
d. out
354.
Shes still trying to get _____ that bout of flu she
had.
a. around b. up
c. over
d. through
355.
He gave _____ immense amounts of money to
charity.
a. up
b. in
c. away
d. off
356.
Pavements dried, giving _____ a smell of
concentrated damp.
a. away
b. out
c. up
d. off
357.
In the third year of their marriage his wife had
given birth _____ twin boys.
a. to
b. up
c. into
d. on
Essential Idioms for intermediate students :
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35

358.
Jack was forced to give _____ his teaching job
because he could not keep order in the class.
a. out
b. up
c. away
d. off
359.
I glanced _____ my watch and was surprised to see
it was nearly midnight.
a. off
b. over
c. at
d. down
360.
Part of the wooden support of the house had been
dangerous gnawed _____.
a. out
b. away
c. on
d. off

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36