All Categories MCQs
Topic Notes: All Categories
General Description
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
68361
The politician's promises were just pie in the sky; none of them were ever fulfilled.
Answer:
an idea or plan that is pleasant to think about but is very unlikely to happen
**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'pie in the sky' refers to an unrealistic or empty promise of future happiness or reward. The fact that the promises 'were never fulfilled' shows that they were unrealistic. Option (c) is the correct definition. Option (a) is a literal interpretation. Options (b) and (d) are the opposite.
68362
He is on the ball and always knows the latest developments in his field.
Answer:
he is alert, competent, and knowledgeable
**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'on the ball' means to be quick to understand and react to things. Knowing the 'latest developments' shows that a person is attentive and competent. Option (b) is the correct definition. Option (a) and (d) are literal misinterpretations. Option (c) is the opposite.
68363
They decided to let bygones be bygones and repaired their friendship.
Answer:
to forgive and forget past quarrels
**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'let bygones be bygones' means to agree to forget about past disagreements or offenses. The act of repairing a friendship is a direct result of this decision to forgive. Option (b) is the correct definition. Option (a) and (d) are the opposite. Option (c) is an incorrect interpretation.
68364
It was a close shave; the car almost hit me.
Answer:
a narrow escape from danger or trouble
**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'a close shave' (or 'a close call') refers to a situation in which one narrowly avoids a dangerous or undesirable outcome. Almost being hit by a car is a perfect example of a narrow escape. Option (c) is the correct definition. Option (d) is the literal meaning of the phrase, but not the idiomatic one. Option (a) is an incorrect interpretation. Option (b) is related but 'narrow escape' is more precise.
68365
She is the apple of her father's eye.
Answer:
she is someone whom her father loves and cherishes the most
**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'the apple of one's eye' refers to a person who is dearly loved and treasured above all others. It signifies great affection and pride. Option (c) is the correct definition. Option (a) and (b) are incorrect interpretations. Option (d) is the opposite.
68366
When his lies were exposed, he had to face the music and resign from his position.
Answer:
accept the unpleasant consequences of one's actions
**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'face the music' means to confront and accept the negative results of something one has done. Resigning from a position after a scandal is a clear example of facing the consequences. Option (b) is the correct definition. Options (a) and (d) are literal misinterpretations. Option (c) is the opposite.
68367
He always gets his own way by hook or by crook.
Answer:
by any means necessary, whether fair or unfair
**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'by hook or by crook' means to achieve something by any possible means, not caring if the methods are honest or dishonest. It implies a strong determination to succeed, regardless of the morality of the methods used. Option (c) is the correct definition. Option (b) represents only one half of the possibilities. Option (a) is a literal misinterpretation. Option (d) is the opposite of determination.
68368
The project was a wild goose chase; we spent weeks searching for data that didn't exist.
Answer:
a foolish and hopeless pursuit of something unattainable
**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** A 'wild goose chase' is a pointless and fruitless search or pursuit. Searching for 'data that didn't exist' is a perfect example of a hopeless task. Option (c) is the correct definition. Option (a) and (d) are the opposite. Option (b) is a literal interpretation.
68369
I can't make head or tail of these instructions.
Answer:
I cannot understand them at all
**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'can't make head or tail of something' means to be completely unable to understand it. It is used to express confusion. Option (b) is the correct definition. Options (a) and (d) are the opposite. Option (c) is a literal misinterpretation.
68370
He works for the company heart and soul.
Answer:
with complete energy and enthusiasm
**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'heart and soul' means to do something with a great deal of passion, commitment, and energy. It implies total dedication. Option (a) is the correct definition. Options (b) and (c) suggest a lack of dedication. Option (d) is an incorrect interpretation.