TOEFL Idioms Quiz Book Study Guide
TOEFL Idioms Quiz Book Overview
Compiled by: Richard J. Lapierre
Publisher: Kaplan Publishing, New York
Publication Date: September 2008
ISBN: 978-1-4277-9751-3
Book Purpose
The book is designed to assist learners in mastering over 350 idioms frequently used in English.
Idioms are defined as words or phrases with meanings that differ from their literal translations, often being metaphorical.
How to Use This Book
Idioms Format: Each idiom is presented on one side with its definition and usage example on the reverse side.
Mastery Technique: Readers can clip or fold back a page corner for idioms they have mastered.
Organization: Idioms are categorized by part of speech and accompanied by annotations in square brackets for easier memorization.
Study Order: Readers can study idioms in any order.
Idioms Definition and Examples
Examples
to push the envelope (verb): to do something new and different that goes beyond previously thought limits.
Example: "His new website really pushes the envelope of what the Internet can be used for."
to abide by the rules (verb): to accept and follow legislation or decisions.
Example: "Both companies claim the right to sell the product, but they will abide by the judge's decision."
to carry on doing something (verb): to continue.
Example: "The book was so interesting he carried on reading it after the end of study hall."
to test the waters (verb): to check the likelihood of success before proceeding.
Example: "Before announcing their new initiative, the politicians tested the waters by conducting polls."
Summary of Idioms with Definitions
to pan out: to yield good results; to turn out well.
Example: "He has had several job interviews but nothing has panned out yet."
to give away the ending: to reveal information meant to be a secret.
Example: "My little sister gave away the party surprise."
to follow suit: to do the same; to follow someone's example.
Example: "He decided to skip the tournament and the rest of the team followed suit."
to grow out of something: to become too large for something; to develop from something.
Example: "This book grew out of a series of lectures."
Additional Idioms and Their Meanings
to back someone into a corner: to pressure someone with no escape.
to have second thoughts: to reconsider a decision.
to look after a child: to take care of someone.
to bring the facts home to her: to make a reality clear.
to see the light: to realize something after serious consideration.
to keep one's options open: to avoid ruling out a future action.
Frequently Used Idioms
to cut to the chase: to get to the point.
to take a step back: to reconsider or analyze a situation.
to run out of steam: to lose energy or enthusiasm.
Idioms Related to Time and Sequence
once in a blue moon: rarely; infrequently.
Example: "I see my friends once in a blue moon since we all got busy."
down the line: in the future; eventually.
Idioms Related to Relationships and Social Interactions
to take someone under one's wing: to mentor.
to talk someone into doing something: to persuade someone.
Idioms Related to Decision Making
to cross that bridge when you come to it: to deal with a problem only when necessary.
to get your act together: to organize oneself.
Idioms Related to Challenges
to face the music: to confront the consequences of one's actions.
to draw a line in the sand: to set clear limits.
Conclusion
The TOEFL® Idioms Quiz Book provides extensive coverage of idioms, aiding English learners in preparation for the TOEFL exam. Each idiom includes definitions, sample sentences, and advice on studying effectively, ensuring that users can understand and properly use common phrases that are integral to fluent English communication.