1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN

ANH – BÌNH BOONG

1. Dave gave the office party a __________ last year.
A. miss B. hit C. chance D. break
2. After six months of convalescence in a nursing home, Simon is finally on the __________.
A. run B. top C. go D. mend
3. I think you __________ a nerve when you mentioned Ralph’s forthcoming retirement.
A. drilled B. had C. touch D. hit
4. Yes, I saw the last episode of the series, but I’m none the __________ about what really happened.
A. better B. wiser C. cleverer D. surer
5. Some people like to __________ their neck doing dangerous sports.
A. risk B. break C. twist D. endanger
6. The professor looked as if he were __________ away in a world of his own.
A. yards B. kilometers C. miles D. streets
7. For stamps and coins to be of value, they need to be in mint __________.
A. state B. condition C. situation D. appearance
8. There's been a slight improvement in his health, but he's not out of the __________ yet.
A. bushes B. woods C. hands D. reaches
9. He's unreliable at the best of times, but forgetting my birthday was the last __________.
A. drop B. breath C. straw D. despair
10. The workforce has been pared to the __________.
A. quick B. fruit C. ball D. bone
11. I don't know if Ash would be right for the job; he's a bit of an unknown __________.
A. quality B. qualification C. quantity D. identity
12. She now says she didn't really want the job that she failed to get, but I think it's just __________.
A. a cup of tea B. an act C. full of beans D. sour grapes
13. Our dog looks very ferocious, but don’t worry, Liz. It’s gentle like __________.
A. a pony B. a lamb C. snowflakes D. a stone
14. I like my new job; the only fly in the __________ is the fact that I have to work every other weekend.
A. fat B. porridge C. soup D. ointment
15. Hardship and hard work are very much part and __________ of student life.
A. package B. parcel C. province D. section
16. In __________, I wonder if we should have done more.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. retrospect B. hindsight C. consideration D. knowledge
17. I think it’s time you __________ and told him you think things should be changed.
A. killed two birds with one stone B. put the cat among the pigeons
C. took the bull by the horns D. got out of the rat race
18. The opposition will be elected into government at the next election, without a __________ of doubt.
A. shadow B. shade C. benefit D. hue
19. I'd like to start the meeting and get down to __________ tacks.
A. silver B. brass C. copper D. gold
20. As the maestro lifted his baton the theater was so still you could hear __________.
A. his heartbeat B. a pin drop C. bird wings D. the drum beating
21. Most of the time, playing classical music for high schoolers is like casting _______ before swine.
A. crystals B. jewels C. diamonds D. pearls
22. I think I understand the nuts and __________ of the operation.
A. screws B. hammer C. nails D. bolts
23. I'll be back in the twinkling of __________.
A. an eye B. a lighting bolt C. a smile D. a laugh
24. Look, I will pay you back. Would you please call the __________?!
A. hunters off B. tigers off C. dogs off D. apes off
25. Meg had a __________ escape when she was hang-gliding yesterday.
A. slender B. close C. near D. narrow
26. Sony has brought in some __________ to revise its fortunes.
A. fresh blood B. thin air C. green beans D. soft water
27. The people – the __________ fodder, the men who would die, and the women who would weep: they
should be given something more than the privilege of either cheering platforms patriots or being summoned
for interrupting public meetings.
A. spear B. cannon C. wave D. rifle
28. I feel I’m in a __________ in my job right now – I need a change.
A. ridge B. rut C. ditch D. tunnel
29. Many victims of the earthquake pay __________ to the ones who took them out of rubble.
A. respects B. homage C. tributes D. deference
30. Max sometimes fails to __________ and makes us do his work.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. take the bull by the horns B. hit the nail on the head
C. pull his weight D. put his foot in it
31. In the acting career, the moment when one first cut his __________ will be the most memorable with
embarrassment and pride bubbling up inside.
A. teeth B. fingers C. hair D. legs
32. Substantial members of the __________ members ignored the union advice.
A. all and sundry B. flesh and blood
C. head and shoulders D. rank and file
33. The world's first boot camp for teenagers addicted to the Internet may be the __________ of things to
come.
A. draft B. formula C. shape D. character
34. Having a night out to talk over my problem with my close friend helped me get a __________ off my
mind.
A. burden B. weight C. heaviness D. worry
35. Come out to our party this weekend, you're sure to have a __________ of a good time!
A. dolphin B. jellyfish C. whale D. shark
36. The election is __________ and neck. We're going to have to wait until the very last votes are tallied.
A. head B. face C. shoulder D. neck
37. He tried __________ by hiding the profits in separate accounts, but we were quick to catch onto his
scheme.
A. giving the game away B. pulling the wool over our eyes
C. going red as a beetroot D. seeing through us
38. The child's sudden death __________ a dark shadow over the house.
A. cast B. got C. covered D. had
39. “Why are you accusing me of breaking the window? I don’t have __________ what you are talking
about.”
A. a fuse B. a brave face C. the fingertips D. the foggiest
idea
40. It’s your own fault you got the sack; now you will have to __________.
A. stew in your own juice B. be in for the high jump
C. keep up with the Joneses D. be in the fire

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
41. You __________ when you called him the slowest worker on earth.
A. lost your nerve B. hit the nail on the head
C. were null and void D. cried over spilt milk
42. The city council has __________ in imposing this steep new income tax on its residents.
A. overstepped its mark B. gone overboard
C. got their own back D. been on a shoe-string
43. Something must have made John really angry; he’s been __________.
A. as the crow flies B. like a bull in a china shop
C. like a bear with a sore head D. like water off a duck’s back
44. Turn off this machine, please. The harsh sound really __________ me crazy.
A. takes B. worries C. drives D. bothers
45. Let me stay at home this morning, please. I'm feeling rather under the __________, so I won't be of great
use in the office.
A. cloud B. control C. pressure D. weather
46. Don’t get so nervous about his coming late. When you get to know him better you'll learn to take it
__________.
A. easy B. loose C. nice D. fine
47. I’m going for a walk in the park. Would you like to __________ me company?
A. follow B. stay C. ward D. keep
48. Would you __________ a blind eye if you saw a crime being committed?
A. close B. turn C. show D. wink
49. I know you're upset about breaking up with Tony but there are plenty more __________.
A. horses in the stable B. cows in the field
C. tigers in the zoo D. fish in the sea
50. On Sunday Vivian studied for seven hours __________.
A. on end B. at once C. in full D. at length
51. “Were you told to get dinner ready?” – “No I did it of my own __________.”
A. desire B. accord C. ideas D. will
52. Why did you __________ and mention the party to Roger? It was supposed to be a surprise.
A. have kittens B. put the cat among the pigeons
C. let the cat out of the bag D. kill two birds with one stone

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
53. You will be putting your life on the __________ if you take up skydiving.
A. ground B. way C. lane D. line
54. The football team Manchester United paid __________ to sign up the Brazilian twins Rafael and Fabio.
A. an arm and a leg B. their heart in it C. a good heart D. their eyes to eyes
55. An interesting picture by Picasso __________ at Sotheby’s auction house last week.
A. broke new ground B. came under the hammer
C. put the lid on D. chewed the fat
56. Life is so full of both good fortune and misfortunes that you have to learn to take the rough with the
__________.
A. smooth B. ready C. calm D. tough
57. Believing that the firm had given him a raw __________, he took his case to an industrial tribunal.
A. deal B. meal C. apple D. nerve
58. He found that the test was child’s __________.
A. play B. games C. matches D. delight
59. Kevin Ward will be taking no __________ against Wigan in the match on Sunday.
A. mercy B. pressure C. captives D. prisoners
60. As one of the funniest in Canada, the group had its audiences __________ at last night’s concert.
A. rolling in the aisles B. on their feet
C. raising eyebrows D. talking over
61. I’ve never set __________ on her before.
A. hands B. eyes C. mind D. attention
62. Though he’s a bit tired, he’ll be full of __________ after a nap.
A. light B. beans C. nerves D. strength
63. It is said that there’s a thin __________ between love and hatred.
A. line B. edge C. wall D. thread
64. His attitude to work has always been very hit and __________.
A. run B. go C. miss D. done
65. Her parents were over the __________ when they heard she had won the competition.
A. rainbow B. stars C. cloud D. moon
66. I wouldn't trust him – he’s got a real __________ streak.
A. mean B. bright C. proud D. lazy

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
67. That film was so boring – I almost died of __________.
A. flatness B. dullness C. boredom D. monotony
68. They agreed to bury the __________ and try to be friends again.
A. sword B. gun C. axe D. knife
69. I was all set to go out, but he threw a __________ in the works by saying he’d lost the tickets.
A. wrench B. hammer C. stick D. card
70. The children ignored all the other food and went straight for the cakes. They made a __________ for it.
A. go B. dive C. run D. swipe
71. They said she would be late, but she arrived bright and __________.
A. ready B. early C. eager D. breezy
72. Their relationship has been on the __________ for a while now.
A. rock B. cliff C. edge D. rocks
73. He’s got a chip on his __________ about not going to university.
A. hand B. back C. shoulder D. mind
74. We were completely in the __________ about the changes to the schedule.
A. blank B. shade C. darkness D. dark
75. He was down in the __________ after being rejected for the job.
A. depths B. dumps C. gutter D. blues
76. They don’t see eye to __________ on the matter.
A. toe B. knee C. eye D. level
77. I’m afraid I can’t help you now – I have a lot on my __________.
A. list B. mind C. plate D. hands
78. That United will beat City is a foregone __________.
A. thought B. decision C. assumption D. conclusion
79. It was such a shock to receive a letter like that __________.
A. in the red B. out of the blue C. in the pink D. over the moon
80. He finally got into the __________ of the new working condition.
A. track B. beat C. swing D. trend
81. She was speaking with her tongue in her __________.
A. cheek B. lips C. voice D. tone
82. Stop pulling my __________. I know you didn’t see a ghost.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. leg B. foot C. arm D. nose
83. I was all set to go out, but he threw a __________ in the works by saying he’d lost the tickets.
A. wrench B. hammer C. stick D. card
84. Don’t run away with the __________ that this job is easy.
A. illusion B. fact C. assumption D. idea
85. Come what __________, I won’t change my mind about this.
A. can B. may C. happens D. occurs
86. He made a killing on the stock market – really laughing all the way to the __________.
A. market B. vault C. bank D. cashier
87. The hotel is believed to have been just a __________ from the beach.
A. stone’s throw B. hand span C. cat’s jump D. step away
88. We’ll cross that __________ when we come to it.
A. bridge B. road C. step D. trouble
89. He was caught __________ with the money.
A. red-handed B. hand-in-glove C. yellow-carded D. black-listed
90. It’s no use crying over __________ milk.
A. spoiled B. rotten C. sour D. spilt
91. As soon as we set off, we knew we were on a wild goose __________.
A. race B. chase C. journey D. track
92. I’ve had it up to __________ with your behavior!
A. head B. ears C. neck D. here
93. Don’t beat around the __________—just tell me what happened.
A. bush B. point C. tree D. field
94. Tom is the black __________ of the family.
A. cat B. spot C. sheep D. mark
95. They made __________ of me at the meeting.
A. fun B. joke C. laughter D. game
96. That problem really threw me for a __________.
A. six B. spin C. twist D. loop
97. I always try to keep my __________ to the ground in case of news.
A. ear B. eyes C. nose D. hand

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
98. I heard it straight from the horse’s __________.
A. mouth B. back C. head D. eyes
99. You’ll have to eat __________ and apologize.
A. dirt B. crow C. toast D. ash
100. The teacher’s words went right over my __________.
A. mind B. ears C. head D. shoulder
101. You have to take it on the __________ – there’s no choice.
A. run B. line C. chin D. mark
102. She was offered a golden __________: a chance to work in the US with all expenses paid.
A. key B. spoon C. handshake D. opportunity
103. You could tell she was in love by the dreamy __________ in her eyes.
A. cloud B. gleam C. mist D. light
104. I don't think that explanation will hold __________ with the police.
A. back B. water C. fire D. court
105. You can't just sweep the problem under the __________.
A. floor B. table C. rug D. chair
106. I was thrown in at the deep __________ on my first day at work.
A. sea B. water C. hole D. end
107. It was a red __________ – meant to distract attention from the real issue.
A. herring B. lobster C. banner D. alert
108. I was taken __________ by how quickly the problem escalated.
A. in B. out C. aback D. over
109. The politician was caught with his __________ in the till.
A. hand B. foot C. head D. back
110. Despite their complaints, they were told to like it or __________ it.
A. lump B. bear C. leave D. hate
111. I know she’s your boss, but don’t let her walk all __________ you.
A. over B. through C. past D. around
112. The whole idea just doesn’t ring __________ with me.
A. soft B. clear C. true D. loud
113. He’s burning the __________ at both ends these days.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. candle B. fire C. rope D. stick
114. She’s a bit thin-skinned – she doesn’t take __________ well.
A. critics B. judgment C. criticism D. insult
115. The business was on its last __________ before the new CEO arrived.
A. legs B. stand C. days D. knees
116. The facts speak for __________.
A. everyone B. them C. it D. themselves
117. I got cold __________ and decided not to go through with it.
A. toes B. fingers C. feet D. hands
118. He got the sack for cooking the __________.
A. meal B. books C. numbers D. results
119. We’ll have to play it by __________ and see what happens.
A. feel B. chance C. ear D. turn
120. He was up in __________ over the decision.
A. fury B. distress C. arms D. flames
121. She’s been skating on thin __________ for a while now.
A. water B. glass C. sheet D. ice
122. I know this is a big disappointment but don’t take it to __________.
A. soul B. mind C. spirit D. heart
123. The judge released him on __________ but he'll have to appear in court again next week.
A. sentence B. bail C. punishment D. parole
124. Let’s make a dash for the train now as the rain seems to be __________ off.
A. reducing B. slowing C. easing D. running
125. She marched into the shop, as bold as __________, and demanded her money back.
A. bass B. grass C. brass D. glass
126. Despite the high divorce rate, the __________ of marriage remains popular.
A. practice B. habit C. institution D. state
127. This evidence should prove __________ that he was telling the truth.
A. once and for all B. now and then C. over and above D. from time to time
128. It goes without __________ that Mr. Abercrombie deserves the prize.
A. goes B. comes C. is D. saying

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
129. Mario stepped into the __________ and chaired the meeting.
A. hole B. breach C. pool D. crack
130. The storm ripped our tent to __________.
A. slices B. shreds C. strips D. specks
131. He couldn’t have been in his right __________ saying that he can fly.
A. thoughts B. brains C. senses D. mind
132. The painting __________ for five thousand pounds.
A. was hammered B. came under the hammer
C. went under fire D. got hit
133. We were left high and __________ when the sponsor pulled out.
A. low B. wide C. deep D. dry
134. That man is all bark and no __________.
A. teeth B. bite C. growl D. shout
135. I hope you'll get on well with your new colleagues soon – just try to break the __________.
A. rule B. glass C. ice D. routine
136. His behavior at the party left a lot to be __________.
A. expected B. guessed C. wondered D. desired
137. I can’t believe he really meant that – he must have said it in the heat of the __________.
A. second B. breath C. moment D. passion
138. All my attempts to cheer her up were like water off a duck’s __________.
A. back B. wings C. feathers D. head
139. The two countries are expected to bury the __________ and sign a peace treaty.
A. club B. gun C. sword D. hatchet
140. Our teacher is really good. She explains things so well that the lessons are a piece of __________.
A. sugar B. work C. cake D. pie
141. I passed the exam by the skin of my __________.
A. head B. back C. teeth D. hand
142. You shouldn’t have made fun of her – that was a real kick in the __________.
A. arm B. mouth C. teeth D. head
143. That singer is the flavour of the __________ at the moment.
A. season B. year C. week D. month

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
144. As a politician, he always tries to sit on the __________ and avoid giving direct answers.
A. fence B. wall C. line D. step
145. The manager tried to explain away the failure, but it was just a red __________.
A. marker B. flag C. banner D. herring
146. She was completely out of her __________ at the business conference.
A. mind B. control C. depth D. place
147. John is always full of bright ideas, but most of them come to __________.
A. dust B. ash C. nothing D. waste
148. The rebel forces finally had to throw in the __________.
A. hat B. glove C. towel D. coat
149. That film really pulled at my heart __________.
A. chains B. strings C. wires D. chords
150. He let the cat out of the __________ by telling her about the surprise.
A. sack B. bag C. box D.
envelope
151. Let’s keep our fingers __________ and hope for the best.
A. straight B. crossed C. curled D. pointed
152. We must tighten our __________ if we want to save enough for a holiday.
A. pockets B. wallets C. purses D. belts
153. As soon as he heard the news, he was on the __________.
A. fly B. wing C. go D. phone
154. She made a real __________ of herself at the party by getting drunk.
A. scene B. show C. fool D. drama
155. We were all at __________ ends after the argument.
A. hard B. rough C. bitter D. loose
156. The story sounded fishy to me right from the word __________.
A. zero B. one C. go D. start
157. Their boss ruled the office with an iron __________.
A. rule B. bar C. fist D. glove
158. Don’t let success go to your __________.
A. head B. heart C. brain D. ears

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
159. We’re not quite ready yet – hold your __________.
A. nerve B. breath C. fire D. horses
160. She always lands on her __________ – nothing bad ever happens to her.
A. face B. hands C. feet D. back
161. It was just a __________ in the pan — nothing came of it.
A. match B. spark C. flame D. flash
162. She was so nervous, she had butterflies in her __________.
A. stomach B. chest C. head D. brain
163. He always seems to be blowing his own __________.
A. trumpet B. horn C. whistle D. drum
164. He made the final decision off the top of his __________.
A. head B. mind C. hand D. thought
165. I’ll cross that bridge when I come to __________.
A. this B. him C. it D. there
166. Their new marketing plan is a step in the right __________.
A. way B. method C. direction D. track
167. If you keep pushing me, you’ll drive me round the __________.
A. bend B. track C. corner D. loop
168. She got the job through the back __________.
A. gate B. route C. window D. door
169. Everything she touches turns to __________.
A. diamond B. gold C. silver D. crystal
170. My plans fell through at the last __________.
A. straw B. call C. minute D. thread
171. I don't want to go and meet your boss, but if I must, then let's get it over and done with — let's bite the
__________.
A. bullet B. apple C. bone D. biscuit
172. I’ve heard that story so many times that I know it off by __________.
A. word B. hand C. memory D. heart
173. Sorry, I can't help you now. I’m snowed __________ with work.
A. up B. under C. over D. away

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
174. He always has his __________ in the clouds.
A. eyes B. ears C. feet D. head
175. The manager is likely to blow a __________ if he finds out we’re late again.
A. top B. wind C. fuse D. storm
176. You can always count on Jane — she's as steady as a __________.
A. statue B. plank C. rock D. table
177. We should take his words with a pinch of __________.
A. salt B. sugar C. pepper D. spice
178. Sorry, I lost my __________ and said things I didn't mean.
A. sense B. temper C. mood D. nerve
179. As soon as he got the promotion, he started acting like the __________ cheese.
A. old B. stale C. big D. smart
180. I’m afraid that plan will backfire — it’s a recipe for __________.
A. trouble B. disaster C. mess D. loss
181. It’s a bit of a grey __________ whether we have the right to do that.
A. space B. zone C. matter D. area
182. John always tries to steal the __________ at meetings.
A. scene B. idea C. moment D. credit
183. He really let the __________ out of the bag about the merger.
A. mouse B. fox C. rat D. cat
184. When it comes to negotiation, he’s a tough nut to __________.
A. bite B. break C. chew D. crack
185. Everything was going well until he put his foot in his __________.
A. plan B. case C. mouth D. shoes
186. Don’t just sit on the __________ — help us decide.
A. fence B. wall C. couch D. post
187. She knows the business inside out — she's an old __________.
A. wolf B. lion C. shark D. hand
188. He’s feeling a bit off __________ today, so he won’t join us.
A. side B. colour C. shape D. form
189. He’s got the world at his __________ now that he’s graduated top of his class.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. feet B. hands C. mercy D. grasp
190. There’s no point getting upset about it — it’s just water under the __________ now.
A. river B. stream C. bridge D. flow
191. We were all ears when the teacher began telling us about her close __________ with a celebrity.
A. hit B. shave C. brush D. encounter
192. I just called to pick your __________ about holiday destinations.
A. brain B. head C. ear D. hand
193. The mere thought of giving a speech in public makes my blood run __________.
A. red B. hot C. dry D. cold
194. As soon as we were out of earshot, she started bad-__________ her boss.
A. mouthing B. talking C. joking D. calling
195. You’ll never get that past her — she’s as sharp as a __________.
A. knife B. fox C. tack D. blade
196. I bent over __________ to finish this report before the deadline.
A. arms B. heart C. legs D. backwards
197. After being caught stealing, he left the company with his __________ between his legs.
A. head B. foot C. tail D. shame
198. Just play it __________ when the inspector comes — don’t draw attention to anything.
A. loud B. safe C. cool D. straight
199. My brother is so tight-fisted — he wouldn’t give you the time of __________.
A. month B. week C. day D. hour
200. She’s walking on __________ ever since her promotion.
A. clouds B. fire C. air D. eggs
201. If we pool our __________, we can buy a really nice gift for her.
A. savings B. pockets C. funds D. resources
202. The news of his resignation came out of left __________.
A. spot B. base C. corner D. field
203. When she failed her exam, she had to eat humble __________.
A. cake B. pie C. bread D. toast
204. We need to get to the root of the __________ before we can solve it.
A. tree B. mess C. trouble D. problem

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
205. I hate to burst your __________, but that’s not how it works.
A. plan B. hopes C. bubble D. dream
206. He’s got a real sweet __________ — he can’t resist desserts.
A. taste B. spot C. mouth D. tooth
207. That’s the straw that broke the __________ back.
A. donkey’s B. mule’s C. horse’s D. camel’s
208. The whole story is a pack of __________.
A. lies B. wolves C. cards D. tricks
209. She always puts on a brave __________ even when she’s hurting inside.
A. smile B. mask C. voice D. face
210. I know you're angry, but there’s no need to fly off the __________.
A. cliff B. wall C. handle D. seat
211. I can’t believe she spilled the __________ — the surprise party’s ruined!
A. water B. secret C. soup D. beans
212. We finally nailed down the deal after weeks of back and __________.
A. forward B. talk C. forth D. negotiation
213. He always turns up like a bad __________.
A. penny B. apple C. coin D. thought
214. The team was on the ropes, but they managed to __________ victory.
A. snatch B. carve C. leap D. dive
215. When she got the job, she thought she was the __________’s knees.
A. bee B. dog C. cat D. horse
216. He was caught bang to __________ with the stolen goods.
A. face B. light C. rights D. rights
217. Let’s call it a day — we’ve done enough and are running out of __________.
A. strength B. steam C. air D. energy
218. She’s been given the cold __________ by her former colleagues.
A. shoulder B. stare C. glance D. look
219. The boss’s sudden resignation left everyone in a state of __________.
A. dismay B. limbo C. lull D. stasis
220. Sorry, I didn't mean to rub salt in the __________.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. eyes B. scar C. wound D. heart
221. You really hit the __________ on the head with that solution.
A. peg B. screw C. bolt D. nail
222. They all jumped on the band__________ once they saw the idea gaining popularity.
A. stage B. wagon C. bus D. boat
223. He tends to blow things out of __________.
A. reason B. shape C. size D. proportion
224. She's been in hot __________ ever since the news leaked.
A. soup B. oil C. water D. broth
225. I wouldn’t trust him an __________ — he’s known to twist the truth.
A. idea B. word C. inch D. ounce
226. He has a finger in every __________ — it’s amazing how many businesses he’s involved in.
A. project B. pie C. plan D. pot
227. They kept the plan under their __________ until everything was ready for the announcement.
A. coat B. sleeve C. hat D. wrap
228. When the teacher asked who had cheated, everyone sat there as quiet as __________.
A. a bird B. a whisper C. a mouse D. stone
229. The minister’s comment was clearly a slip of the __________.
A. mouth B. mind C. tongue D. head
230. Their arguments always revolve around money matters, and this time they really went at it hammer and
__________.
A. nail B. tongs C. fists D. tools
231. For all his tough talk, he has a heart of __________ and would never harm a fly.
A. ice B. stone C. iron D. gold
232. The announcement came completely out of the __________ — no one was expecting it.
A. sky B. blue C. dark D. black
233. His idea went down like a lead __________ during the meeting — nobody liked it.
A. hammer B. pipe C. balloon D. block
234. You shouldn’t put all your eggs in one __________ when investing your money.
A. plate B. cart C. pot D. basket
235. After his rude comment, he tried to backpedal, but the damage had already been done — he had really

16
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
put his foot in his __________.
A. mouth B. case C. speech D. talk
236. No matter how much he denies it, the writing is on the __________: the company is going bankrupt.
A. paper B. screen C. board D. wall
237. The new CEO quickly showed he meant business and wasted no time in separating the wheat from the
__________.
A. hay B. chaff C. crop D. stalk
238. I don’t want to jump the __________, but I think they’re going to offer me the promotion.
A. boat B. queue C. broom D. gun
239. He was so embarrassed after making a fool of himself that he wished the ground would open up and
__________ him.
A. eat B. hold C. swallow D. grab
240. After being found guilty, he was left to face the music and take his __________.
A. stripes B. notes C. punishment D. medicine
241. They were walking on thin __________ by coming late again after the warning.
A. floor B. ground C. line D. ice
242. Her brilliant performance in the competition made her the __________ of the town.
A. gossip B. chat C. talk D. word
243. Don’t tell Jane anything sensitive — she’s got a very big __________.
A. ear B. voice C. mouth D. tongue
244. Although they had prepared well for the launch, the product flopped and they had to go back to the
drawing __________.
A. book B. paper C. desk D. board
245. The new manager is very strict and won’t tolerate anyone who steps out of __________.
A. turn B. line C. control D. bounds
246. He’s got his head in the __________ — he doesn’t understand what’s going on at all.
A. sand B. sky C. stars D. clouds
247. Everyone thinks she’s wonderful, but I think she’s a bit of a dark __________.
A. sheep B. mark C. horse D. cloud
248. The latest comments by the politician really put the __________ among the pigeons.
A. cat B. rat C. dog D. fox

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
249. They decided to let sleeping __________ lie and not bring up the old argument.
A. lions B. bears C. dogs D. beasts
250. He was so scared he was shaking like a __________.
A. leaf B. tree C. stick D. feather
251. As soon as the bomb threat was announced, the building emptied like __________ work.
A. lightning B. a shot C. clockwork D. wildfire
252. Stop being such a backseat __________ and let me drive!
A. pilot B. leader C. boss D. driver
253. She really burned the midnight __________ studying for the finals.
A. flame B. oil C. wick D. light
254. His strange behavior raised a few __________.
A. flags B. questions C. eyebrows D. doubts
255. After the scandal, he was left out in the __________ by his former allies.
A. dark B. storm C. cold D. wind
256. I didn't know the answer to the last question, so I just took a wild __________.
A. shot B. chance C. guess D. jump
257. The politician promised to get tough on crime, but his words were just hot __________.
A. soup B. words C. wind D. air
258. She was so angry that she gave me a piece of her __________.
A. soul B. thought C. lips D. mind
259. I usually just go with the __________ and see where life takes me.
A. wind B. stream C. wave D. flow
260. It’s been raining cats and __________ all morning.
A. mice B. frogs C. dogs D. snakes
261. He knows this subject inside __________.
A. out B. and up C. off D. through
262. If you want to get this job done right, you'll have to pull your __________ up.
A. sleeves B. boots C. collar D. socks
263. I know it sounds risky, but sometimes you just have to throw caution to the __________ and go for it.
A. air B. wind C. wall D. storm
264. We are straining every __________ for the upcoming national high school exam.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. skin B. nerve C. cell D. brain
265. He keeps buying things he doesn’t need — money burns a hole in his __________.
A. wallet B. purse C. pocket D. hand
266. I can’t believe she got the promotion — she’s been playing her cards close to her __________.
A. chest B. sleeve C. vest D. chin
267. If we’re going to finish on time, we’d better get our act __________.
A. cleaned B. started C. straight D. together
268. His explanation didn’t cut any __________ with the committee.
A. mustard B. corners C. slack D. ice
269. I was so embarrassed — I just wanted the ground to open up and __________ me.
A. bury B. swallow C. suck D. cover
270. That manager runs a tight __________ — everyone has to be on time and work hard.
A. belt B. house C. ship D. leash
271. It was just a __________ in the pan — nothing came of it.
A. match B. spark C. flame D. flash
272. When the new policy was announced, it caused quite a __________ among the employees.
A. flutter B. ripple C. storm D. wave
273. After being found guilty, he had to __________ the music and accept the punishment.
A. pay B. take C. face D. hear
274. I really put my __________ in it when I mentioned her ex-boyfriend.
A. hand B. head C. foot D. nose
275. He’s just a small cog in a big __________.
A. wheel B. engine C. system D. machine
276. They were so similar — like two __________ in a pod.
A. apples B. beans C. peas D. seeds
277. That idea won’t fly — it’s just not going to cut the __________.
A. mustard B. deal C. edge D. line
278. I was at my wits’ __________ trying to solve that problem.
A. edge B. length C. end D. break
279. He’s really full of piss and __________ — always ready to argue.
A. fire B. vinegar C. spice D. oil

19
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
280. Jane has gone to the dogs ever since she got involved with that __________ crowd.
A. outlandish B. rough C. wild D. barking
281. You shouldn’t take his rude behavior to heart — just let it roll off you like water off a duck’s
__________.
A. wings B. feathers C. skin D. back
282. He’s always got his nose to the __________, working hard.
A. wall B. grindstone C. wheel D. file
283. Let’s not make a mountain out of a __________.
A. bump B. stone C. molehill D. grain
284. I wouldn’t touch that investment with a __________-foot pole.
A. ten B. twelve C. hundred D. five
285. We’re back to square __________ after that deal fell through.
A. one B. zero C. root D. level
286. He kept the news under his __________ until the last minute.
A. hat B. cap C. sleeve D. head
287. The deal is up in the __________ now that the contract has expired.
A. air B. fire C. clouds D. wind
288. Jane’s parents will certainly go __________ when she buys them a present with her first salary.
A. bananas B. oranges C. cucumbers D. apples
289. Let’s not sugarcoat it — the campaign was a complete __________.
A. mistake B. flop C. mess D. collapse
290. I’m not keen on that idea — it doesn’t sit __________ with me.
A. firm B. true C. right D. easy
291. It’s high time we read him the __________ — he needs to follow the rules.
A. code B. rules C. riot act D. contract
292. He was born with a silver __________ in his mouth.
A. knife B. plate C. coin D. spoon
293. His career is on the skids; he's heading for the __________ house.
A. poor B. dog C. glass D. safe
294. If you spill the beans, you’ll ruin the surprise — so keep a __________ lip.
A. quiet B. sealed C. silent D. stiff

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
295. That new plan is just a shot in the __________ — no one knows if it'll work.
A. foot B. arm C. dark D. wind
296. You’re really barking up the wrong __________ if you think I’m to blame.
A. wall B. door C. tree D. path
297. He's been bending over __________ to please the new boss.
A. backwards B. forward C. sideways D. downwards
298. That idea was nipped in the __________ by the board.
A. bud B. flower C. vine D. shoot
299. I could sense something was going on — I just had a gut __________.
A. hunch B. instinct C. reaction D. feeling
300. You’ll have to bite the __________ and face the consequences.
A. steel B. bullet C. nail D. dust
301. Don’t rock the __________ now — we’ve just found some stability.
A. boat B. chair C. plan D. table
302. She’s been running around like a headless __________ all morning.
A. hen B. rooster C. chicken D. goose
303. That new manager has really stirred up a __________ of hornets.
A. group B. bunch C. hive D. nest
304. In the end, the boy turned out to be a pain in the __________.
A. back B. eye C. neck D. leg
305. She’s a real couch __________ — she watches TV all day.
A. worm B. potato C. apple D. beet
306. Don’t count your chickens before they’ve __________.
A. hatched B. clucked C. laid D. grown
307. I don’t want to be in your __________ when Mom finds out!
A. suit B. clothes C. skin D. shoes
308. When it comes to math, Jane is in a class of her __________.
A. own B. dream C. world D. peers
309. I’ll believe it when I see pigs __________.
A. fly B. dance C. crawl D. whistle
310. The news came out of the __________ — no one expected it.

21
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. sun B. blue C. green D. dark
311. John is always full of hot __________.
A. soup B. pepper C. air D. sauce
312. It was just a storm in a __________ — no need to worry.
A. bowl B. cup C. pot D. teacup
313. We are in the same __________ — both broke and jobless.
A. canoe B. team C. mess D. boat
314. My little brother always spills the __________.
A. beans B. oil C. soup D. powder
315. The manager passed the __________ to his assistant.
A. power B. button C. buck D. blame
316. She’s on __________ nine since the proposal.
A. sky B. cloud C. page D. floor
317. I’m not going to lift a __________ to help him.
A. hand B. leg C. finger D. bone
318. That’s just the tip of the __________.
A. stake B. mountain C. tower D. iceberg
319. The whole plan went down the __________.
A. hatch B. tubes C. sink D. drain
320. He’s pulling the wool over your __________.
A. eyes B. mind C. ears D. heart
321. I’m going to let my hair __________ tonight.
A. fall B. drop C. swing D. down
322. That guy is a snake in the __________.
A. dark B. woods C. grass D. jungle
323. He drives me up the __________ with his whining.
A. roof B. road C. tree D. wall
324. I know it sounds risky, but sometimes you just have to throw caution to the __________ and go for it.
A. air B. wind C. wall D. storm
325. They got off on the wrong __________.
A. note B. hand C. track D. foot

22
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
326. I was caught between a rock and a hard __________.
A. wall B. door C. ground D. place
327. He passed the exam with flying __________.
A. books B. colors C. marks D. papers
328. You could have knocked me over with a __________.
A. breeze B. word C. smile D. feather
329. This report is just a pack of __________.
A. mistakes B. rubbish C. lies D. nonsense
330. That guy rubs me the wrong __________.
A. hand B. way C. tone D. thought
331. You hit the nail on the __________.
A. board B. thumb C. point D. head
332. You really hit below the __________ with that personal comment.
A. stomach B. eye C. knee D. belt
333. I smell a __________ — someone’s hiding something.
A. fish B. rat C. goat D. duck
334. It’s all Greek to __________.
A. her B. him C. me D. us
335. He’s got ants in his __________.
A. shoes B. pants C. socks D. pocket
336. Don’t put the cart before the __________.
A. mule B. horse C. truck D. ox
337. Keep it under your __________ for now.
A. hat B. lid C. cover D. hood
338. The actor stole the __________ with that final scene.
A. camera B. picture C. show D. movie
339. Paul is known to have a green __________ when it comes to growing houseplants.
A. hand B. eye C. thumb D. touch
340. When I heard the news, it hit me like a ton of __________.
A. feathers B. bricks C. ice D. steel
341. I don’t think John will come around — he’s as stubborn as a __________.

23
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. bull B. mule C. goat D. camel
342. You’re barking up the wrong __________ if you think I’m the thief.
A. hill B. man C. tree D. path
343. She’s so vain — always fishing for __________.
A. compliments B. attention C. rewards D. favors
344. The announcement threw cold __________ on our celebration plans.
A. wind B. ashes C. water D. beer
345. He’s clearly not cut out for this job — he’s a square peg in a round __________.
A. circle B. hole C. slot D. ring
346. Don’t worry, she’s got your back — she’ll go to bat __________ you.
A. from B. at C. over D. for
347. The CEO was given the __________ slip after the merger.
A. pink B. white C. red D. blue
348. You’ve got to hand it to Joe — he pulled a rabbit out of the __________ with that last-minute fix.
A. coat B. hat C. sleeve D. cupboard
349. The plan was dead in the __________ after the first round of feedback.
A. river B. water C. dust D. air
350. Their threats cut no __________ with the employees.
A. metal B. slack C. water D. mustard
351. When it comes to detail, she really dots her i’s and crosses her __________.
A. x’s B. z’s C. t’s D. q’s
352. His business idea went belly-__________ after only three months.
A. down B. flat C. round D. up
353. The new regulations threw a wrench in the __________.
A. gear B. schedule C. works D. plan
354. I’m afraid the new rule is just a paper __________ — no real effect.
A. mask B. tiger C. rule D. sword
355. The manager gave me a real dressing-__________ after that mistake.
A. room B. down C. off D. belt
356. He was head over __________ in love with her.
A. hands B. face C. heels D. arms

24
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
357. After days of silence, he finally broke his __________.
A. speech B. silence C. vow D. shell
358. That business idea sounds good on __________, but I doubt it’ll work in practice.
A. screen B. paper C. record D. theory
359. Her speech struck a __________ with the audience.
A. bell B. note C. cord D. chord
360. Despite their complaints, they were told to like it or __________ it.
A. lump B. bear C. leave D. hate
361. No one wants to talk about the elephant in the __________.
A. house B. zoo C. corner D. room
362. She’s clearly the apple of her father’s __________.
A. love B. care C. eye D. joy
363. Let’s call it a day and pick up where we left __________ tomorrow.
A. over B. from C. off D. out
364. You’re really rubbing salt in the __________ by reminding her.
A. cut B. pain C. scar D. wound
365. His ideas are just pie in the __________.
A. sky B. air C. clouds D. oven
366. I wouldn't trust him as far as I could __________ him.
A. walk B. chase C. see D. throw
367. We had to weather the __________ when the scandal broke.
A. pressure B. storm C. cloud D. wave
368. It’s better to be safe than __________.
A. sorry B. foolish C. late D. reckless
369. She always puts her foot in her __________.
A. way B. shoe C. mouth D. step
370. His patience finally snapped and he blew a __________.
A. pipe B. whistle C. fuse D. top
371. I need to clear the __________ and explain myself.
A. air B. mind C. case D. name
372. He finally turned over a new __________ and started working hard.

25
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. stone B. chapter C. leaf D. rule
373. She flew off the __________ when she heard the news.
A. rail B. track C. chain D. handle
374. He’s really out of __________ with the current trends.
A. phase B. fashion C. sync D. date
375. When push comes to __________, we’ll have to act.
A. start B. shove C. force D. run
376. He’s really behind the __________ on this issue.
A. curve B. idea C. times D. rule
377. She went off the deep __________ when she saw the mess.
A. water B. edge C. end D. pool
378. I’m playing devil’s __________ here just to explore both sides.
A. line B. agent C. thought D. advocate
379. She’s not exactly the sharpest __________ in the box, is she?
A. nail B. pencil C. tool D. knife
380. Their team is streets __________ of the rest of the competition.
A. behind B. away C. apart D. ahead
381. We had a whale of a time on our holiday in Hawaii – it was a real __________.
A. ride B. splash C. blast D. wave
382. That’s above my pay __________ — I don’t make that call.
A. grade B. title C. rank D. reach
383. When the truth came out, it really opened a whole new can of __________.
A. beans B. spiders C. worms D. snakes
384. I got up so late I had to get ready at the drop of a __________.
A. glove B. second C. time D. hat
385. I thought I could bluff my way through the interview, but I was caught with my pants __________.
A. falling B. down C. sideways D. loose
386. She left her job under a bit of a cloud because of the scandal, but she’s now landed on her __________.
A. knees B. elbows C. feet D. toes
387. The whole thing was a storm in a __________.
A. kettle B. cup C. saucer D. teacup

26
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
388. She’s been out of work for months – really down on her __________.
A. mind B. soul C. heels D. luck
389. You could tell she was fuming – she was breathing __________.
A. wind B. smoke C. heavily D. fire
390. Their new product is selling like hot __________.
A. pies B. drinks C. cakes D. goods
391. It’s all Greek to me – I just can’t make __________ nor tail of it.
A. nose B. top C. head D. tail
392. Allison thinks she knows all the __________, but she's clueless about a lot of things.
A. details B. sides C. answers D. angles
393. It was touch and __________ whether they would survive the storm.
A. go B. pass C. move D. go
394. They promised to be with us through thick and __________.
A. lean B. thin C. rough D. harsh
395. I didn’t understand what he meant, but I just played along and nodded my __________.
A. hand B. face C. part D. head
396. His comments during the meeting were completely beyond the __________.
A. line B. pale C. rule D. mark
397. He’s not the kind of person to blow his own __________.
A. drum B. trumpet C. horn D. whistle
398. After the scandal, the politician was in hot __________.
A. water B. soup C. oil D. stew
399. Don’t hold your __________ waiting for him to show up on time.
A. hope B. hands C. breath D. nerve
400. She was completely thrown off __________ when he asked her such a personal question.
A. course B. balance C. track D. guard
401. He is not the kind of man to let things slide; he usually takes the __________ by the horns.
A. goat B. bull C. deer D. tiger
402. I thought he would criticize me, but he let me off with barely a __________ of the tongue.
A. slip B. lash C. touch D. tick
403. The new manager has a tendency to rub people up the wrong __________.

27
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. edge B. way C. line D. side
404. He kept a stiff upper __________ even when he was fired from his job.
A. face B. cheek C. lip D. jaw
405. When he heard the news, he looked as if he had seen a __________.
A. monster B. vision C. ghost D. future
406. If you want to keep your job, you’d better toe the __________.
A. rule B. way C. mark D. line
407. They live from hand to __________ and have no savings.
A. mouth B. pocket C. ear D. plate
408. I hope he gets his just __________ for what he did to those poor animals.
A. desserts B. pudding C. return D. cake
409. They were all ears during the presentation, hanging on his every __________.
A. idea B. phrase C. word D. thought
410. The protestors were prepared to stick it out, come rain or __________.
A. sun B. shine C. storm D. flood
411. That job is right up your __________. Why don’t you apply for it?
A. path B. alley C. street D. door
412. I don’t like him; he gives me the __________.
A. shivers B. creeps C. chills D. shakes
413. His new song is catching on like __________ on fire.
A. leaves B. paper C. house D. wildfire
414. I’m sure he will rise to the __________ and do a great job.
A. challenge B. event C. call D. stage
415. There’s no love lost between them — they’re always at __________.
A. odds B. stakes C. heads D. cross
416. It was a real slap in the __________ when I wasn’t invited.
A. face B. eye C. mouth D. hand
417. It’s a catch-__________ situation — whatever I do, I lose.
A. 21 B. 22 C. 23 D. 24
418. John was the one who broke the vase, but he managed to talk his way out of it and his sister ended up
carrying the __________.

28
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. weight B. can C. guilt D. blame
419. Though he was under pressure from the media, the minister refused to make a public statement and
remained tight-lipped, adding more fuel to the __________.
A. rumour B. scandal C. gossip D. fire
420. They had been fighting like __________ and dogs ever since they moved in together.
A. tigers B. cats C. foxes D. rats
421. I tried to get some information out of her, but she just sat there like a __________ on a log.
A. bump B. frog C. spot D. leaf
422. He was very nervous at the start of the performance, but then he got into his __________ and played
beautifully.
A. rhythm B. swing C. mood D. style
423. If we approach the negotiations in the right way, I think we’ll be able to kill two birds with one
__________.
A. stone B. stick C. arrow D. shot
424. He’s got such a big __________. He never listens to anyone else.
A. ego B. opinion C. head D. pride
425. The manager was fired after the embezzlement scandal. Now he’s trying to save __________.
A. reputation B. position C. grace D. face
426. She’s only trying to stir things up. Don’t let her drive a __________ between us.
A. line B. wedge C. sword D. crack
427. At first I thought it was a bargain, but it turned out to be a white __________.
A. elephant B. ghost C. whale D. shark
428. Just ignore him. He’s only trying to blow off some __________.
A. steam B. air C. anger D. pressure
429. He said he didn’t take it, but I think he was just covering his own __________.
A. hands B. story C. tracks D. case
430. We’d been working together for months before I realized she had been feeding me a __________ of
lies.
A. dish B. line C. story D. tale
431. I got the job offer completely out of the __________. I wasn’t even expecting a response!
A. black B. blue C. pink D. red

29
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
432. I wish you wouldn’t always jump down my __________ every time I ask a question!
A. neck B. back C. throat D. face
433. The athlete is now back in the __________ after recovering from a serious injury.
A. court B. lane C. game D. saddle
434. Don’t worry about Tom. He’s a tough cookie and knows how to hold his own when the going gets
__________.
A. difficult B. rough C. tough D. hard
435. After failing the first test, she picked herself up and came back fighting tooth and __________.
A. nail B. claw C. fang D. punch
436. If you play your __________ right, you might be promoted by the end of the year.
A. tricks B. move C. odds D. cards
437. It was a last-ditch __________ to save the company from bankruptcy.
A. solution B. effort C. measure D. attempt
438. He’s no spring __________, but he’s still fit enough to run five miles a day.
A. deer B. kitten C. lamb D. chicken
439. When it comes to negotiation, he’s a tough nut to __________.
A. bite B. break C. chew D. crack
440. I know you don’t agree with her, but don’t make a song and __________ about it.
A. drama B. dance C. story D. fuss
441. The new scheme was just a flash in the __________ and soon forgotten.
A. sky B. dark C. plan D. pan
442. It was a close __________ – we nearly missed the train.
A. hit B. call C. save D. escape
443. He made a real __________ of himself at the wedding by drinking too much.
A. fool B. mess C. show D. pig
444. I know the exam is tough, but keep your __________ up.
A. effort B. spirits C. head D. grade
445. After the scandal, he kept a low __________ for a few months.
A. hat B. profile C. status D. level
446. He got the job not on merit but through backdoor __________.
A. politics B. dealing C. channels D. tactics

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
447. I haven’t seen him in donkey’s __________.
A. days B. years C. time D. decades
448. She’s really pushing the __________ with this new advertising campaign.
A. frontier B. line C. envelope D. agenda
449. When I told him the news, he just sat there like a __________ duck.
A. cooked B. dead C. lame D. frozen
450. They really threw a spanner in the __________ when they changed the venue last minute.
A. engine B. clock C. works D. gear
451. I don’t think I’ll take up that offer – too many __________ attached.
A. strings B. hooks C. ropes D. wires
452. We were walking on __________ all the time, afraid of offending her.
A. pebbles B. tiptoes C. eggshells D. blades
453. Her suggestion fell on deaf __________ at the meeting.
A. minds B. ears C. voices D. seats
454. He knows the city like the back of his __________.
A. hand B. mind C. book D. house
455. When he was arrested, he sang like a __________.
A. parrot B. songbird C. canary D. raven
456. She’s head and __________ above the rest of the class.
A. shoulders B. arm C. neck D. elbow
457. He’s got the gift of the __________ – always knows what to say.
A. talk B. gab C. voice D. tone
458. She’s burning the __________ at both ends to finish that report.
A. wick B. candle C. torch D. rope
459. He’s a chip off the old __________ – just like his father.
A. plank B. block C. root D. board
460. He took the criticism on the __________ and moved on.
A. ear B. leg C. chest D. chin
461. He said it with his tongue in his __________.
A. lip B. tooth C. cheek D. mouth
462. This job is not exactly a bed of __________.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. feathers B. roses C. clover D. silk
463. If you think you can fool me, you’ve got another __________ coming.
A. truth B. lie C. guess D. think
464. He’s known to throw his __________ around to get what he wants.
A. size B. name C. weight D. voice
465. He dropped a __________ when he mentioned her ex-husband.
A. word B. line C. clanger D. clue
466. He is not the sharpest tool in the __________.
A. workshop B. box C. sheds D. drawer
467. I didn’t expect him to hit the roof like that – he really went __________.
A. bananas B. mute C. blind D. speechless
468. When I asked her about the rumors, she immediately __________ and left the room.
A. raised the bar B. changed the subject C. dropped the case D. turned a leaf
469. We got the project finished in the __________ of time.
A. sparkle B. twinkling C. nick D. flash
470. You can’t run a business by the seat of your __________.
A. will B. chair C. pants D. idea
471. When it comes to painting, he’s a cut above the __________.
A. pack B. rest C. mark D. usual
472. The job offer was music to her __________.
A. soul B. mind C. ears D. thought
473. He was finally let go because he didn’t pull his own __________.
A. share B. part C. task D. weight
474. I was in over my __________ when I agreed to take on the project.
A. depth B. limit C. ceiling D. head
475. He always has to be the center of __________.
A. vision B. talk C. attention D. circle
476. The manager gave her the green __________ to begin the campaign.
A. pass B. signal C. light D. card
477. The idea of quitting his job had been in the back of his __________ for weeks.
A. room B. mind C. plan D. thought

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
478. When I mentioned the raise, he jumped down my __________.
A. neck B. case C. throat D. side
479. She’s as cool as a __________ even in stressful situations.
A. stone B. cucumber C. melon D. tile
480. We’re just scratching the __________ of what AI can do.
A. skin B. shell C. layer D. surface
481. The whole scheme was a house of __________ – destined to fail.
A. bricks B. cards C. dust D. glass
482. She’s the spitting __________ of her mother.
A. copy B. version C. reflection D. image
483. He always turns up like a bad __________.
A. penny B. joke C. apple D. egg
484. He’s just trying to make a fast __________.
A. money B. living C. buck D. fortune
485. They threw him under the __________ to save themselves.
A. bus B. train C. car D. track
486. He’s known to bend the __________ when it suits him.
A. facts B. law C. truth D. rules
487. When her brother left for university, she felt like a fish out of __________.
A. the sea B. the tank C. water D. place
488. You’d better be on your __________ when the boss is around.
A. legs B. best C. guard D. toes
489. I know you’re upset, but don’t take it out on me – I’m just the __________.
A. driver B. cook C. messenger D. postman
490. I don’t like her much – she really gets under my __________.
A. nerves B. hair C. feet D. skin
491. She’s such a back-seat __________ – always giving advice when it’s not wanted.
A. mother B. judge C. pilot D. driver
492. He was thrown in at the deep __________ and had to learn fast.
A. end B. water C. sea D. pool
493. I’ve been in the __________ all week and need a break.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. run B. loop C. grind D. spin
494. She’s clutching at __________ now – nothing else to try.
A. dreams B. faith C. wires D. straws
495. The company’s offer was just a carrot and __________ to lure workers.
A. trick B. trap C. bait D. stick
496. If you want to finish on time, you’ll have to pull out all the __________.
A. tricks B. stops C. effort D. notes
497. The manager always keeps a cool __________ in a crisis.
A. front B. head C. tone D. act
498. Don’t worry, it’s not rocket __________ – anyone can do it.
A. science B. theory C. work D. language
499. He came clean and told the truth, warts and __________.
A. spots B. flaws C. all D. none
500. The plan hit a __________ patch after the first week.
A. dull B. slow C. rough D. soft
501. Her career took off, and now she’s sitting pretty on a __________ salary.
A. juicy B. fat C. golden D. plush
502. She’s very good at reading between the __________.
A. signs B. sentences C. lines D. gaps
503. I wouldn’t touch that investment with a ten-foot __________.
A. ladder B. pole C. line D. stick
504. It was a learning experience — I chalked it up to the school of __________.
A. discipline B. hard knocks C. real life D. second chances
505. They’re playing with __________ by ignoring the warning signs.
A. fire B. chances C. lightning D. wind
506. I tried to convince him, but he’s set in his __________.
A. place B. stance C. stone D. ways
507. When things got tough, she really stepped up to the __________.
A. task B. role C. plate D. mark
508. We need to think __________ the box if we want to beat our competitors.
A. outside B. above C. around D. beyond

34
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
509. I’ll be there for you — you can count on me to have your __________.
A. hand B. back C. side D. support
510. He’s always blowing things out of __________ — don’t take him seriously.
A. control B. mind C. air D. proportion
511. We need someone who can hit the ground __________ on this project.
A. first B. running C. hard D. fast
512. She was just trying to score __________ points by criticizing the manager.
A. fame B. brownie C. quick D. talking
513. I can read her like a __________ — she’s terrible at hiding emotions.
A. mirror B. poster C. book D. headline
514. You’re preaching to the __________ — we all agree with you.
A. team B. manager C. choir D. audience
515. She was so nervous, she was pacing like a __________ in a cage.
A. cat B. lion C. rat D. tiger
516. I don’t feel like buying a __________ in a poke; we’d better check the content.
A. pig B. cattle C. buffalo D. ox
517. Don’t worry, she’ll land on her __________ — she always does.
A. skills B. instincts C. ideas D. feet
518. I poured my ______ out to him and then he told all his friends what I’d said!
A. head B. mouth C. heart D. tongue
519. He’s always two steps __________ of the competition.
A. forward B. ahead C. upper D. faster
520. She ghosted him after the second date — left him in the __________.
A. night B. cloud C. lurch D. silence
521. The new CEO has her finger on the company’s __________.
A. trigger B. heart C. pressure D. pulse
522. He’s known for moving the goal__________ when things don’t go his way.
A. post B. bar C. frame D. goal
523. That explanation doesn’t pass the __________ test.
A. sense B. smell C. sight D. talk
524. It’s just window __________ — no real changes underneath.

35
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. dressing B. painting C. framing D. coding
525. The plan got off the ground, but now it’s losing __________.
A. traction B. attention C. team D. path
526. Their offer was too good to be __________.
A. ignored B. copied C. true D. refused
527 She tends to go down rabbit __________ when researching.
A. holes B. lanes C. minds D. files
528. Let’s not boil the __________ — focus on one project at a time.
A. ocean B. sea C. water D. river
529. She’s really leaning __________ — trying to lead a major initiative.
A. in B. over C. out D. back
530. I’m not going to die on that __________ — it’s not worth it.
A. hill B. fight C. battlefield D. line
531. The sales assistants were so rude to me, I decided to take my __________ elsewhere.
A. income B. custom C. capital D. fortune
532. Neither side is prepared to __________ an inch in the negotiations.
A. stir B. budge C. push D. bend
533. This app is gaining serious __________ — people love it.
A. movement B. momentum C. buzz D. stake
534. I hope this doesn't __________ your style, but could you please not hum while you work?
A. restrict B. impede C. cramp D. obstruct
535. He didn’t want to go public — he preferred to stay under the __________.
A. screen B. wire C. surface D. radar
536. We need to build this product with __________ in mind.
A. scale B. budget C. risk D. silence
537. She has a seat at the __________ now — her opinion matters.
A. board B. table C. decision D. plan
538. They’re in damage __________ mode after the media backlash.
A. hiding B. control C. patching D. freeze
539. She’s trying to future-__________ her career with new skills.
A. protect B. shape C. align D. proof

36
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
540. We need to win the next two matches. It’s a __________ ask, but I’m confident we can do it.
A. large B. great C. big D. tall
541. We can’t afford to rest on our __________ — the market’s moving fast.
A. record B. image C. laurels D. pride
542. We need to take a step __________ and look at the bigger picture.
A. back B. down C. over D. across
543. She jumped at the chance — she knew it was now or __________.
A. maybe B. never C. later D. nothing
544. They’re trying to get their foot in the __________ in the Asian market.
A. office B. game C. door D. deal
545. I’m going to play __________’s advocate just to challenge the idea.
A. lawyer B. devil C. critic D. doubter
546. He’s finally coming out of his __________ and speaking up in meetings.
A. corner B. head C. shell D. space
547. That comment really hit a __________ nerve with the audience.
A. deep B. soft C. raw D. loud
548. When it comes to tech trends, she’s ahead of the __________.
A. curve B. rest C. line D. pack
549. The idea went down like a lead __________.
A. balloon B. box C. anchor D. plate
550. We’re in uncharted __________ with this new AI regulation.
A. territory B. region C. route D. current
551. They’re the flavor of the __________, but will they last?
A. trend B. week C. buzz D. scene
552. It’s a drop in the __________ compared to what we owe.
A. pool B. ocean C. river D. tank
553. You can’t make an __________ without breaking eggs.
A. effort B. impact C. omelette D. idea
554. I’d take that with a grain of __________ if I were you.
A. salt B. doubt C. pepper D. truth
555. She’s finally learning the ropes and finding her __________.

37
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. foot B. space C. groove D. shape
556. That project is completely off the __________ — no direction at all.
A. plan B. radar C. rails D. logic
557. They’ve been under the __________ since the scandal broke.
A. gun B. scope C. knife D. microscope
558. We’re trying to put out fires and keep things from going __________.
A. messy B. haywire C. boom D. south
559. You’ve got to read the room or you’ll miss the social __________.
A. moment B. cues C. eyes D. feeling
560. The idea gained __________ quickly and went viral.
A. legs B. shares C. noise D. speed
561. He knows how to push all the right __________.
A. buttons B. tactics C. people D. strings
562. I think you’re opening a Pandora’s __________ with that policy.
A. chest B. idea C. box D. gate
565. Although I thought I'd done well, my sister's exam results put mine in the _______.
A. map B. dark C. shade D. night
564. I love my aunt, but she'll talk your __________ off if you let her!
A. head B. knee C. eye D. hand
565. The deal fell through at the eleventh __________.
A. turn B. minute C. step D. hour
566. Let’s call a __________ a spade — it was a failure.
A. shape B. mistake C. spade D. fault
567. He’s got bigger __________ to fry right now.
A. issues B. problems C. fish D. topics
568. We’re walking a fine __________ between confidence and arrogance.
A. rope B. edge C. thread D. line
569. I didn’t want to stir the __________, so I stayed quiet.
A. situation B. soup C. pot D. buzz
570. Janet will see you if you use the computer without permission. She has eyes like a __________.
A. bird B. goose C. hawk D. fox

38
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
571. You could cut the __________ with a knife — the tension was that high.
A. silence B. air C. moment D. atmosphere
572. I’m just playing it safe — not going to stick my __________ out.
A. plan B. money C. neck D. arm
573. When she was promoted, it really ruffled some __________.
A. people B. ties C. egos D. feathers
574. Sorry, I can't help — my hands are __________.
A. tired B. closed C. tied D. high
575. He threw cold __________ on our idea.
A. soup B. looks C. water D. facts
576. I can’t give you an answer now — I need to sleep on __________.
A. time B. it C. that D. thought
577. Let’s touch __________ later this week to finalize the details.
A. buttons B. hands C. base D. points
578. She got the job because she knew how to play her __________ right.
A. face B. cards C. name D. part
579. When it comes to design, she’s really at the top of her __________.
A. game B. work C. craft D. field
580. We’re walking on __________ — let’s not push things too far.
A. glass B. knives C. eggshells D. ropes
581. They were just going through the __________ in that meeting.
A. points B. forms C. motions D. script
582. It’s time to take the gloves __________ and talk honestly.
A. in B. out C. down D. off
583. That job was a real baptism of __________ for her.
A. test B. fire C. stress D. risk
584. He always shoots from the __________ — no filter at all.
A. lip B. tongue C. hip D. gut
585. You’re not thinking straight — don’t let your emotions cloud your __________.
A. words B. mind C. judgment D. plan
586. We’re facing the perfect __________ — supply issues and rising costs.

39
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. season B. wave C. storm D. scenario
587. I know he looks confident, but it’s all smoke and __________.
A. fire B. mirrors C. dust D. flair
588. When she started talking about her new boyfriend again, I knew we were going down a rabbit
__________.
A. path B. trail C. tunnel D. hole
589. We tried to stay calm, but when the system crashed during the launch, all hell broke __________.
A. open B. off C. loose D. apart
590. I was trying to keep a low profile, but my bright red jacket kind of gave the game __________.
A. up B. away C. out D. over
591. She said she wasn’t upset, but her body language told a different __________.
A. tale B. face C. message D. story
592. I thought I could trust him, but he stabbed me in the __________ when I needed him the most.
A. heart B. back C. mind D. chest
593. He tried to pass the blame onto me, but I wasn’t born __________ — I knew exactly what he was
doing.
A. yesterday B. naïve C. a fool D. last night
594. The manager’s sudden resignation really came out of left __________ — no one saw it coming.
A. area B. wing C. field D. frame
595. If we want this to work, we have to get everyone on the same __________.
A. side B. team C. board D. page
596. I know the plan sounds crazy, but desperate times call for desperate __________.
A. ideas B. actions C. measures D. tactics
597. He thinks he’s in control, but actually, she’s the one calling the __________ behind the scenes.
A. orders B. shots C. plans D. decisions
598. When the deadline got pushed forward, we had to move at the speed of __________ to finish
everything in time.
A. thought B. fire C. sound D. light
599. We tried to warn him, but he wouldn’t listen — he had to learn it the hard __________.
A. method B. path C. route D. way
600. Sorry for the harsh words — I spoke in the heat of the __________ and didn’t mean it.

40
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. second B. emotion C. anger D. moment
601. No, I don't want to watch a war film. I don’t like to see too much blood and __________.
A. guts B. tears C. pain D. bone
602. They promised they’d deliver on time, but it turns out their bark was worse than their __________.
A. voice B. pitch C. growl D. bite
603. There’s no turning back now — we’re in too deep and must face the __________.
A. facts B. storm C. music D. fire
604. I’m not sure how long she can keep up the act — the truth is bound to come to __________ sooner or
later.
A. light B. air C. mind D. reason
605. He has a way with words — he can sell ice to __________.
A. Icelanders B. penguins C. Eskimos D. snowmen
606. Don’t be fooled by the fancy language — at the end of the day, it’s just lipstick on a __________.
A. donkey B. mess C. pig D. problem
607. After months of delays, we’re finally seeing the light at the end of the __________.
A. road B. tunnel C. project D. schedule
608. I know it sounds risky, but sometimes you just have to throw caution to the __________ and go for it.
A. air B. wind C. wall D. storm
609. Sara bought in a lot of business last month; she should ask for a pay rise while she's still on a
__________.
A. run B. rush C. roam D. roll
610. The manager was fuming, but she bit her __________ and waited until the meeting was over.
A. teeth B. words C. tongue D. time
611. They agreed in public, but behind closed __________, there’s still a lot of tension.
A. scenes B. lines C. walls D. doors
612. The strikes had brought the economy to its __________.
A. legs B. knees C. toes D. feet
613. We were just getting by financially, living from hand to __________ most months.
A. mouth B. meal C. table D. paycheck
614. They gave us the green light to launch, but we still need to iron out a few __________ first.
A. parts B. issues C. wrinkles D. corners

41
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
615. He’s talking the talk, but whether he can walk the __________ is another question.
A. street B. line C. path D. walk
616. Don’t waste your time trying to change her mind — it’s like talking to a brick __________.
A. wall B. door C. table D. head
617. We should nip this problem in the __________ before it becomes a real crisis.
A. root B. bud C. leaf D. base
618. When I asked him about the missing files, he clammed __________ and refused to answer.
A. off B. in C. down D. up
619. They were cutting __________ too close by arriving at the airport just 30 minutes before departure.
A. time B. things C. it D. deadlines
620. After years of saving, they finally bought their dream house — it was a labor of __________.
A. trust B. time C. love D. patience
621. The debate got heated, but eventually, cooler heads __________.
A. ruled B. won C. rose D. prevailed
622. He was under the __________ to finish the report by Friday, but he managed it.
A. weight B. line C. wire D. gun
623. She’s always been the black __________ in her family — different, bold, and misunderstood.
A. dress B. goat C. dog D. sheep
624. I finally told her what I thought — I couldn’t keep __________ my tongue anymore.
A. holding B. watching C. biting D. pressing
625. I thought I had made a solid case, but she shot me down in __________ seconds.
A. ten B. five C. no D. two
626. I could tell she was nervous about the meeting — she had been pacing back and __________ in the
hallway for ten minutes.
A. down B. again C. forth D. sideways
627. Everyone thought she was just lucky, but in truth, she had planned every move down to a __________.
A. number B. science C. dot D. strategy
628. Their reaction was over the top — they really made a __________ and dance over such a minor issue.
A. song B. talk C. stage D. fuss
629. You’re taking on too much at once — don’t try to bite off more than you can __________.
A. handle B. chew C. finish D. plan

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
630. I wasn’t sure how to respond to her question, so I had to think on my __________.
A. mind B. moment C. feet D. words
631. It’s not a perfect solution, but let’s run it up the __________ and see who salutes.
A. flagpole B. ladder C. line D. standard
632. There’s no point dwelling on it now — that ship has already __________.
A. sailed B. sunk C. turned D. gone
633. I’ll give her credit — she really stuck to her __________ even when everyone else disagreed.
A. opinion B. plan C. guns D. beliefs
634. I wouldn’t trust him to lead this project — he tends to crack under __________.
A. pressure B. criticism C. control D. power
635. We didn’t expect them to support the decision, but they fell into __________ and agreed without
question.
A. agreement B. place C. silence D. line
636. We thought she would panic, but she took everything in __________ and handled it well.
A. silence B. turn C. control D. stride
637. We thought it was a sure win, but the opposing team really gave us a run for our __________.
A. points B. pride C. money D. game
638. I’d avoid that topic if I were you — it’s a real hot __________ around here.
A. dish B. button C. zone D. spark
639. He tried to butter up the boss before the meeting, but everyone could see right through the act — it was
pure brown __________.
A. words B. sugar C. points D. nosing
640. We’re almost there — just one more hurdle and we’ll be home __________.
A. clear B. free C. straight D. stretch
641. I told them the idea wouldn’t work, but now that it failed, they’re trying to make me the __________
goat.
A. black B. scapegoat C. blame D. cornered
642. Let’s keep our plans under __________ until the official launch next month.
A. secret B. wraps C. lid D. control
643. You’d better stay on your __________ if you want to impress the interview panel.
A. toes B. alert C. nerves D. game

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
644. They had to cut __________ and cancel two projects to stay within the budget.
A. cost B. effort C. corners D. team
645. She said she wasn’t upset, but you could tell something was eating her __________.
A. inside B. heart C. up D. nerves
646. You have to read the fine __________ before signing anything in this industry.
A. print B. clause C. details D. deal
647. He never admits his mistakes — always has an excuse ready up his __________.
A. list B. file C. sleeve D. coat
648. If we can’t agree now, we might as well agree to __________.
A. separate B. discuss later C. disagree D. move on
649. The party was a blast — everyone let their __________ down and had a great time.
A. hair B. worries C. guard D. face
650. I knew I had crossed a line the moment she gave me the evil __________.
A. grin B. look C. eye D. glare
651. The manager was very clear — either shape up or ship __________.
A. down B. away C. over D. out
652. We knew the product had potential, but the marketing team really dropped the __________.
A. deal B. file C. ball D. chance
653. If you want to make a good impression, you need to put your best __________ forward.
A. face B. smile C. self D. foot
654. The manager was in a bad mood, so I tried not to step on any __________ during the meeting.
A. traps B. buttons C. toes D. nerves
655. That argument really opened the floodgates, and now everyone is airing their dirty __________.
A. secrets B. dishes C. stories D. laundry
656. She has a knack for pushing people’s __________ — it’s like she enjoys seeing them upset.
A. nerves B. energy C. edge D. buttons
657. It’s hard to make progress in this company unless you know how to play the __________.
A. people B. politics C. cards D. system
658. He left the company in the lurch, without so much as a two-week __________.
A. break B. plan C. exit D. notice
659. He always expects others to do the dirty work — never wants to get his hands __________.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. used B. dirty C. messy D. involved
660. When the results were announced, the whole room was dead __________.
A. quiet B. sound C. still D. silent
661. You’ll need to grease the right __________ if you want those permits approved quickly.
A. hands B. wheels C. palms D. way
662. Let’s not sugarcoat it — the campaign was a complete __________.
A. mistake B. flop C. mess D. collapse
663. His report was full of buzzwords but lacked real insight — all sizzle and no __________.
A. core B. point C. meat D. steak
664. The startup gained traction quickly, but the founders knew they had to strike while the iron was
__________.
A. high B. boiling C. hot D. ready
665. The board is split over the decision — there’s a clear divide, and neither side is willing to give an
__________.
A. inch B. idea C. edge D. ounce
666. I’ll walk you through the basics, but after that, you’re on your own — it’s sink or __________.
A. fail B. fall C. drown D. swim
667. When the market crashed, the investors were left holding the __________.
A. debt B. mess C. bag D. case
668. Their proposal was rejected not because it was flawed, but because it hit too close to the __________.
A. source B. truth C. bone D. home
669. You can't just change the policy overnight without consulting stakeholders — it’s a political hot
__________.
A. seat B. potato C. plate D. file
670. Her flawless speech proved she had done her homework and left no __________ unturned.
A. idea B. clue C. stone D. file
671. It was an ambitious plan, but without proper funding, it was always going to be a non-__________.
A. event B. starter C. issue D. option
672. The media frenzy eventually died down, and the company got off __________.
A. easy B. softly C. the hook D. the line
673. When the company collapsed, he was thrown to the __________ by those he once trusted.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. wolves B. press C. sharks D. public
674. You’re preaching to the __________ — we’re already on your side.
A. team B. converted C. leaders D. masses
675. They were clearly reading from the same __________ — their views were too aligned to be
coincidence.
A. script B. plan C. book D. page
676. They tried to sweep it under the carpet, but the whistleblower brought everything into the __________.
A. press B. court C. open D. spotlight
677. He got the job not because he was the best candidate, but because he had friends in high __________.
A. offices B. places C. positions D. chairs
678. As soon as the news broke, political commentators came out of the woodwork to add their two
__________.
A. points B. pence C. coins D. cents
679. Despite public outrage, the company got off __________ with only a warning and no fine.
A. softly B. easily C. the hook D. clean
680. When asked about the controversy, the spokesperson kept her cards close to her __________.
A. voice B. chest C. mouth D. sleeve
681. In politics, promising reform without follow-through is simply paying lip __________ to the electorate.
A. attention B. motion C. gesture D. service
682. She stood her __________ even when the entire panel challenged her findings.
A. position B. voice C. ground D. opinion
683. We need to get our house in __________ before applying for international funding.
A. check B. control C. harmony D. order
684. When the board rejected the proposal, it was clear they had drawn a line in the __________.
A. ground B. file C. sand D. budget
685. You’ll need to jump through several __________ before you get that permit approved.
A. walls B. stages C. hoops D. forms
686. The entire committee toed the party __________, even if they privately disagreed.
A. policy B. decision C. line D. rule
687. The company has a long track record, so this error is just a blip on the __________.
A. radar B. report C. file D. screen

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
688. Although the announcement was vague, it spoke volumes between the __________.
A. details B. voices C. pages D. lines
689. As the saying goes, the proof of the pudding is in the __________ — let’s wait and see how it works.
A. plan B. result C. eating D. serving
690. His campaign started strong, but it quickly ran out of __________ due to lack of funding.
A. time B. steam C. chance D. power
691. He’s just small __________ in the corporate world — don’t worry about him.
A. cheese B. potato C. talk D. change
692. Let’s not open old __________ — what’s done is done.
A. arguments B. files C. wounds D. policies
693. His opinion carries weight — when he talks, people sit up and take __________.
A. action B. power C. notice D. point
694. She was caught off __________ when asked about the budget discrepancy.
A. script B. hand C. guard D. record
695. His new book is flying off the __________ — critics and readers alike love it.
A. market B. press C. shelves D. stores
696. You’re trying to run before you can __________ — master the basics first.
A. walk B. think C. lead D. start
697. We gave him an inch and he took a __________ — now the entire plan’s off balance.
A. mile B. foot C. leap D. shift
698. He’s a mover and __________ in the tech industry — always one step ahead.
A. shaker B. maker C. riser D. thinker
699. Her resignation letter was the final nail in the __________ for the administration.
A. office B. coffin C. board D. ruling
700. You need to take a long, hard __________ at how your policies are affecting people.
A. view B. decision C. look D. report
701. After months of secrecy, the report finally saw the light of __________.
A. print B. truth C. day D. media
702. His constant bragging about minor successes rings __________ with most of his colleagues.
A. flat B. false C. dull D. hollow
703. The senator’s sudden resignation raised eyebrows and set tongues __________ in the media.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. flapping B. spinning C. wagging D. talking
704. Though publicly they deny wrongdoing, behind closed doors they’re scrambling to cover their
__________.
A. backs B. positions C. files D. tracks
705. During the heated debate, he was caught with his pants __________ and had no rebuttal.
A. lost B. down C. dropped D. stuck
706. Don’t throw the baby out with the __________ — we still need parts of the original plan.
A. report B. dishwater C. bathwater D. backup
707. The committee gave his proposal short __________ — it was dismissed within minutes.
A. order B. time C. notice D. shrift
708. Let’s keep that idea on the back __________ and revisit it after the budget meeting.
A. chart B. desk C. burner D. shelf
709. They’re clearly playing for __________, trying to delay the decision until after the election.
A. advantage B. sympathy C. time D. reaction
710. She’s got a real axe to __________ with the way HR has handled her case.
A. bury B. fix C. grind D. file
711. Their explanation doesn’t pass the __________ test — it sounds too good to be true.
A. logic B. sniff C. proof D. eye
712. He made the mistake of laying all his cards on the __________ too early in the negotiation.
A. paper B. field C. table D. record
713. That’s all well and good, but let’s not lose sight of the bigger __________ here.
A. picture B. case C. value D. deal
714. It’s a poisoned __________ — the promotion looks great, but it comes with huge hidden pressures.
A. pill B. bonus C. apple D. chalice
715. With the new evidence, the entire case could unravel at the __________.
A. edges B. top C. seams D. end
716. We’ve been trying to get a straight answer, but they keep moving the __________.
A. numbers B. rules C. deadline D. goalposts
717. After the project failed, the director became the fall __________, even though others were equally
responsible.
A. player B. leader C. guy D. scapegoat

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
718. That theory has been hanging by a __________ ever since the new research came out.
A. thread B. doubt C. flaw D. point
719. The project went pear-__________ when the supplier failed to deliver on time.
A. dropped B. rounded C. side D. shaped
720. They won’t approve the budget until we grease a few __________.
A. wheels B. palms C. paths D. steps
721. You’re flogging a dead __________ trying to persuade them — the decision’s already made.
A. horse B. plan C. file D. cow
722. She's made it clear that she won’t play second __________ to anyone.
A. string B. plan C. fiddle D. act
723. The idea of launching a new product in this market is a non-__________ — there’s simply no demand.
A. starter B. mover C. offer D. option
724. He’s got his work cut __________ for him if he wants to repair the company’s image.
A. down B. in C. out D. off
725. He’s a dark __________ in the race — no one expects him to win, but he might surprise us.
A. plan B. field C. horse D. trail
726. The manager told us to shape up or __________ out — performance is everything here.
A. drop B. ship C. back D. walk
727. His explanation was long-winded and missed the __________.
A. edge B. case C. point D. voice
728. That’s just par for the __________ in this line of work — nothing unusual.
A. field B. course C. round D. game
729. He’s on the war__________ ever since the budget cuts were announced.
A. cry B. horse C. path D. room
730. That job is a real cushy __________ — not much to do but great pay.
A. plate B. gig C. pillow D. job
731. He wouldn’t touch that contract with a ten-foot __________ — it’s too risky.
A. clause B. stick C. pole D. brush
732. The CFO was given a blank __________ to restructure the organization.
A. cheque B. sheet C. plan D. file
733. She has a knack for pushing the right __________ — very manipulative.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. people B. buttons C. angles D. tone
734. His behaviour raised a few red __________ during the interview.
A. alerts B. cards C. flags D. blinks
735. After the press leak, the committee went into damage __________ mode.
A. backup B. rescue C. control D. patch
736. He always takes the moral high __________, even when he’s clearly in the wrong.
A. path B. road C. seat D. field
737. She kept a straight __________ throughout the cross-examination.
A. look B. posture C. face D. answer
738. It was a bitter __________ to swallow, but the company had to downsize.
A. pill B. cut C. end D. lesson
739. Their diplomacy skills helped pour oil on troubled __________.
A. ground B. feelings C. waters D. regions
740. She tends to go off on a __________ when she doesn’t like the topic.
A. rant B. rail C. break D. spin
741. They took a leaf out of our __________ and replicated the campaign strategy.
A. book B. plan C. vote D. method
742. She’s just trying to curry __________ with the board — don’t fall for it.
A. respect B. favour C. praise D. support
743. The minister read the __________ and resigned before being asked to leave.
A. pressure B. temperature C. room D. writing on the wall
744. It was a textbook example of the pot calling the kettle __________.
A. hot B. old C. black D. broken
745. The prime minister kicked the can down the __________ instead of addressing the crisis.
A. trail B. field C. road D. street
746. She tends to shoot from the __________ — which can be both honest and risky.
A. hip B. heart C. gate D. gut
747. We gave them an inch, and they took a __________ — never again.
A. yard B. foot C. chance D. country
748. You could cut the tension with a __________ in that boardroom.
A. knife B. glance C. stare D. pause

50
 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
749. He stuck out like a sore __________ at the formal dinner.
A. idea B. word C. thumb D. choice
750. She’s no shrinking __________ — she’ll confront anyone in the boardroom.
A. tulip B. flower C. wallflower D. violet
751. They have a skeleton in the __________ they don't want the media to find.
A. drawer B. vault C. board D. closet
752. The diplomat tried to smooth things over with some olive __________.
A. branches B. lines C. offers D. words
753. The scandal finally blew the lid __________ on years of corruption.
A. over B. off C. back D. through
754. There’s no love __________ between those two departments — they barely speak.
A. policy B. lost C. balance D. line
755. The rival firm was quick off the __________ and launched ahead of us.
A. deal B. line C. table D. ground
756. They’re fighting an uphill __________ trying to gain public trust again.
A. task B. war C. battle D. way
757. They’ve got a lot of money, but they don’t exactly shout it from the __________.
A. rooftops B. headlines C. balconies D. speakers
758. Royce is unlikely to __________ any surprises.
A. springs B. leaps C. sources D. traces
759. He doesn’t suffer fools __________ — he’s sharp and direct.
A. fully B. lightly C. gladly D. fairly
760. They pulled the __________ out from under us with that last-minute decision.
A. rug B. plan C. paper D. structure
761. We’ll need to get our ducks in a __________ before the audit.
A. file B. circle C. row D. stream
762. The plan fell __________ on the investors — no one supported it.
A. off B. short C. flat D. outside
763. She read them the __________ act after the PR disaster.
A. riot B. speech C. warning D. final
764. I’m in two __________ about whether to accept the offer.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. choices B. thoughts C. states D. minds
765. He made a clean __________ of it and resigned without excuse.
A. sweep B. sheet C. break D. cut
766. It all went __________-shaped after the funding was withdrawn.
A. circle B. square C. triangle D. pear
767. The journalist went for the __________ — no soft questions asked.
A. kill B. jugular C. punch D. truth
768. He’s the kind of boss who always passes the __________ when things go wrong.
A. blame B. buck C. load D. file
769. They rolled out the red __________ for the visiting ambassador.
A. ribbon B. carpet C. fabric D. signal
770. I think you’ve got the wrong end of the __________ — let me explain again.
A. idea B. argument C. point D. stick
771. He doesn’t have a leg to __________ — the evidence is clear.
A. show B. walk C. stand on D. reply
772. That idea has been nipped in the __________ by the finance team.
A. stem B. root C. bud D. base
773. She spoke off the __________ and caused a minor scandal.
A. paper B. script C. topic D. point
774. She's known for always going the extra __________ to help her clients.
A. mile B. step C. yard D. inch
775. The CEO's decision to cut jobs was a bitter pill to __________ for the employees.
A. take B. swallow C. digest D. accept
776. The company is on the brink of collapse; it's a sinking __________.
A. boat B. ship C. vessel D. raft
777. He's a wolf in sheep's __________; be cautious around him.
A. clothing B. attire C. skin D. coat
778. The new intern is still wet behind the __________ and needs guidance.
A. ears B. head C. neck D. shoulders
779. The new policy is the straw that broke the camel's __________.
A. back B. neck C. spine D. leg

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
780. The new assistant is really green around the __________.
A. edges B. eyes C. gills D. nose
781. Sorry to bring this up, but I have a bone to __________ with you.
A. throw B. grind C. pick D. chew
782. Has the show finally jumped the __________?
A. salmon B. herring C. shark D. dolphin
783. You’ll need to play your cards __________ if you want to get that promotion.
A. slowly B. safe C. sharp D. right
784. He got a taste of his own __________ when the prank backfired.
A. trick B. dose C. flavor D. medicine
785. You could see he was licking his __________ at the chance to win.
A. fingers B. lips C. chops D. teeth
786. That comment really hit me where it __________.
A. hurts B. lands C. breaks D. stings
787. When it comes to negotiations, she drives a hard __________.
A. car B. bargain C. talk D. deal
788. They were dancing around the __________ instead of addressing the issue.
A. problem B. bush C. table D. topic
789. The manager gave them a slap on the __________ for missing the meeting.
A. cheek B. wrist C. arm D. back
790. I'm not going to lose sleep over it — it's no skin off my __________.
A. back B. chest C. nose D. chin
791. He kept a poker __________ throughout the entire negotiation.
A. mood B. tone C. stare D. face
792. The news hit us like a ton of __________.
A. rocks B. bricks C. facts D. weight
793. She broke down and cried her __________ out.
A. lungs B. soul C. eyes D. heart
794. He got the job not on merit but through backdoor __________.
A. politics B. dealing C. channels D. tactics
795. They were making money hand over __________ during the peak season.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. time B. cash C. deal D. fist
796. Let’s chew the __________ over lunch and figure out a solution.
A. meat B. idea C. fat D. matter
797. He has deep __________ when it comes to political loyalty.
A. waters B. debts C. convictions D. pockets
798. They were walking a political tightrope, trying not to upset either side of the __________.
A. table B. aisle C. fence D. platform
799. That’s the pot calling the __________ black if I ever heard it.
A. kettle B. pan C. dish D. oven
800. She’s not just talking the talk — she walks the __________.
A. street B. journey C. walk D. line
801. They tied the __________ on a quiet beach with just close family around.
A. bond B. rope C. thread D. knot
802. Let’s get the ball __________ on this proposal before Friday.
A. going B. running C. rolling D. spinning
803. She’s the __________ in shining armor that saved the company.
A. prince B. knight C. queen D. hero
804. It’s time to face the cold hard __________ and accept reality.
A. blow B. truth C. mirror D. wall
805. He was raring to __________ when the opportunity finally arrived.
A. jump B. strike C. fire D. go
806. That kid is a law unto __________ — no one can control him.
A. justice B. rules C. themself D. himself
807. We’re not just whistling __________ — this is serious.
A. away B. songs C. lies D. Dixie
808. He’ll go to the ends of the __________ to get what he wants.
A. land B. street C. world D. room
809. I don't want to be the fifth __________ — go without me.
A. wheel B. seat C. leg D. option
810. She’s the teacher’s __________ — always first to answer.
A. favorite B. buddy C. pet D. star

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
811. You can't make a silk purse out of a sow’s __________.
A. ear B. tail C. leg D. foot
812. He always seems to be on his high __________, preaching at others.
A. perch B. horse C. box D. wall
813. When the chips are __________, you’ll see who your friends are.
A. missing B. down C. far D. shared
814. He just wants his fifteen minutes of __________.
A. fame B. voice C. light D. power
815. The old man finally kicked the __________ last night.
A. habit B. job C. ladder D. bucket
816. The idea was dead in the __________ — it never took off.
A. lab B. boardroom C. room D. cradle
817. This decision could open the flood__________.
A. line B. wall C. gates D. stream
818. The early bird catches the __________ — get up!
A. bus B. day C. worm D. light
819. We’re just scratching the __________ — there’s more to uncover.
A. paper B. fact C. top D. surface
820. He’s in the hot __________ after the failed launch.
A. pot B. spot C. circle D. seat
821. You really hit below the __________ with that personal comment.
A. stomach B. eye C. knee D. belt
822. After the scandal, he became persona non __________.
A. legit B. grata C. nova D. viva
823. We can’t afford to drop the __________ now — stay alert.
A. mask B. guard C. rope D. baton
824. I’m going out on a __________ here, but I think he’s lying.
A. turn B. chance C. whim D. limb
825. The new recruit is still finding his __________.
A. balance B. feet C. rhythm D. role
826. She had me eating out of the palm of her __________.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. heart B. word C. voice D. hand
827. They gave him the benefit of the __________ and forgave him.
A. doubt B. reason C. trust D. choice
828. They took to each other like a house on __________.
A. bricks B. ice C. fire D. wheels
829. The idea gained ground and began to __________ momentum.
A. win B. gather C. reach D. swing
830. This task is no walk in the __________.
A. lane B. road C. park D. night
831. He’s been through the __________ and come out stronger.
A. fire B. ropes C. mill D. chain
832. They’re making ends __________ by working two jobs.
A. tie B. stretch C. break D. meet
833. She was left to twist in the __________ when the team didn’t back her.
A. air B. wind C. light D. hallway
834. He threw his __________ into the ring and joined the race.
A. voice B. hat C. bid D. name
835. They called his __________ when he threatened to quit.
A. choice B. trick C. bluff D. card
836. He’s been blowing hot and __________ about the deal.
A. loud B. cold C. fierce D. smooth
837. They gave him the red __________ for misconduct.
A. sign B. card C. mark D. tag
838. He always puts two and two together and gets __________.
A. five B. three C. eight D. wrong
839. The idea caught on like wildfire and spread by word of __________.
A. people B. ear C. voice D. mouth
840. She’s digging her own __________ by ignoring advice.
A. place B. pit C. grave D. end
841. Don’t add fuel to the __________ — the debate is heated enough.
A. talk B. fire C. spark D. oil

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
842. She kept working on the manuscript for years, determined not to let it fall by the __________.
A. road B. side C. ditch D. wayside
843. The plan was initially promising, but it went off the __________ due to poor communication.
A. map B. tracks C. script D. grid
844. He made a last-ditch effort to win them over, but it was too little, too __________.
A. soon B. late C. slow D. low
845. He suddenly dropped out of the project without so much as a __________ goodbye.
A. formal B. second C. farewell D. by-your-leave
846. They were living in a bubble until the crisis burst their __________ of illusion.
A. wall B. dream C. shell D. bubble
847. His suggestion was met with blank stares — clearly it went down like a __________ balloon.
A. stone B. steel C. dead D. lead
848. The news of her promotion spread like __________ — everyone was talking about it.
A. virus B. fire C. shock D. lightning
849. They had hoped for a breakthrough, but their efforts hit a brick __________.
A. door B. gate C. wall D. barrier
850. The politician was caught with his hand in the __________, damaging his reputation badly.
A. drawer B. cookie jar C. cabinet D. vault
851. They were at sixes and __________ about how to handle the report.
A. sevens B. odds C. crosses D. ends
852. He was so tired that he hit the __________ the moment he got home.
A. sack B. bed C. couch D. hays
853. They had bitten off more than they could __________ with that expansion plan.
A. handle B. chew C. lead D. lift
854. I didn’t expect him to back down so easily — he usually digs his __________ in.
A. thoughts B. boots C. pride D. heels
855. After the heated debate, she decided to extend an olive __________ and invited him for coffee.
A. leaf B. hand C. branch D. root
856. I know she seems cold, but deep down she wears her heart on her __________.
A. chest B. cuff C. sleeve D. collar
857. Once the boss walked in, the team immediately got down to __________.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. ground B. earth C. task D. business
858. When asked about the rumors, she refused to confirm or __________ them.
A. deny B. reject C. admit D. clarify
859. His apology was too little, too late — the damage had already been __________.
A. gone B. done C. said D. made
860. The new policy caused quite a stir, but now everything has settled down and it’s __________ sailing.
A. calm B. level C. smooth D. plaining
861. The CEO kept everything under __________ until the official launch date.
A. control B. wraps C. cover D. lock
862. The argument escalated quickly, and what started as a small issue snowballed out of __________.
A. form B. track C. reason D. control
863. The negotiations were tough, but they managed to reach a middle __________.
A. view B. field C. road D. ground
864. They’re not just colleagues — they really go back a long __________.
A. journey B. path C. way D. time
865. That new intern is still finding his __________, but he’s improving fast.
A. direction B. purpose C. pace D. feet
866. He finally saw the writing on the __________ and stepped down.
A. note B. door C. wall D. page
867. He pretended to be confident during the presentation, but I could tell he was just putting on a
__________.
A. show B. mask C. front D. role
868. Don’t worry — the manager will go to __________ lengths to protect her team.
A. massive B. extreme C. incredible D. total
869. That reporter tends to stir the pot just to see what bubbles to the __________.
A. front B. edge C. surface D. light
870. She really put him on the __________ when she asked about the missing funds.
A. floor B. spot C. chair D. record
871. After the third failed attempt, she decided to call it a __________ and try a different approach.
A. rest B. day C. loss D. shot
872. I was about to explain, but she beat me to the __________ and told the whole story herself.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. moment B. line C. punch D. answer
873. She doesn’t trust easily — once bitten, twice __________.
A. alert B. careful C. shy D. wounded
874. He just sat there during the whole discussion, not saying a word — a fly on the __________.
A. wall B. door C. board D. frame
875. Although the idea sounded crazy at first, it turned out to be a blessing in __________.
A. time B. surprise C. disguise D. shock
876. You can try negotiating, but he always has the upper __________ in these talks.
A. word B. hand C. deal D. power
877. It’s a long shot, but it might just be our ace in the __________.
A. hole B. game C. luck D. pack
878. You can dress it up however you like, but the plan is doomed to __________.
A. crash B. sink C. fail D. flop
879. They’ve decided to pull the __________ on the project after several months of delays and budget
overruns.
A. plug B. wire C. rope D. handle
880. Don’t waste your breath trying to change his mind — it’s like talking to a brick __________.
A. door B. ghost C. wall D. tree
881. They weren’t on the same page and kept working at __________ purposes.
A. separate B. opposite C. cross D. unclear
882. It was an ambitious plan, but in the end, it fell flat on its __________.
A. launch B. face C. goal D. start
883. I knew she was upset, but I didn’t expect her to go for the __________ like that.
A. throat B. face C. core D. punch
884. She left the company under a __________, and no one has heard from her since.
A. mystery B. curtain C. cloud D. silence
885. He knows how to push her __________ — she loses her temper every time.
A. anger B. edge C. buttons D. feelings
886. The news came out of the blue and really knocked me for a __________.
A. shock B. loop C. spin D. fall
887. It was a close call, but in the end, she managed to keep the __________ afloat.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. project B. plan C. ship D. business
888. They were so quick to take credit when things went well, but when things went wrong, they vanished
into __________ air.
A. dark B. nowhere C. mist D. thin
889. I didn’t expect her to spill the __________ in front of everyone at the meeting.
A. drama B. news C. tea D. truth
890. He passed away with his boots __________, just as he’d always hoped.
A. broken B. worn C. gone D. on
891. He talked a lot about fairness, but when it came to action, it was all talk and no __________.
A. plan B. result C. action D. move
892. I’ve been living out of a __________ ever since I started traveling for work.
A. truck B. bag C. suitcase D. box
893. It’s a tough market, and only the cream of the __________ makes it to the top.
A. batch B. class C. crop D. lot
894. They turned a blind eye to the warning signs, and now the chickens have come home to __________.
A. sleep B. settle C. bite D. roost
895. The new manager is trying to throw his __________ around to show authority.
A. words B. ideas C. weight D. name
896. He got the job through a friend — it’s a classic case of pulling __________.
A. ropes B. links C. strings D. contacts
897. He decided to lay low for a while and let the dust __________.
A. fade B. calm C. land D. settle
898. I knew they wouldn’t keep the secret — they have big __________.
A. mouths B. ears C. voices D. lips
899. It was only a matter of time before he showed his true __________.
A. color B. behavior C. nature D. colors
900. They’ve been trying to drum up __________ for the new campaign online.
A. interest B. views C. buzz D. support
901. It’s hard to catch him out — he’s always one step __________ of the competition.
A. forward B. ahead C. over D. sharper
902. Their plan sounds good on paper, but I’ll believe it when I see the __________ in the pudding.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. result B. proof C. truth D. outcome
903. The client was on the fence, so I had to twist his __________ a bit.
A. opinion B. terms C. arm D. budget
904. I wouldn’t trust him — he’s as slippery as an __________.
A. eel B. oil C. ice cube D. arrow
905. After such a long dry spell, her success came like a breath of fresh __________.
A. air B. start C. hope D. energy
906. They thought she’d fail, but she rose from the __________ like a true leader.
A. fire B. shadows C. ashes D. dust
907. When it comes to budgeting, he knows the ins and __________.
A. outs B. details C. tricks D. terms
908. That comment really hit me where it __________.
A. matters B. hurts C. works D. stings
909. His story doesn’t add up — something smells __________.
A. rotten B. odd C. off D. fishy
910. When asked about the budget, she danced around the __________.
A. bush B. point C. edge D. fire
911. We thought she would settle down, but clearly the leopard doesn’t change its __________.
A. color B. spots C. stripes D. habits
912. You have to be careful — he can turn on a __________ and become aggressive.
A. sign B. word C. dime D. switch
913. You can complain all you want, but that’s the way the cookie __________.
A. breaks B. crumbles C. flattens D. snaps
914. Born into rich family, these children expect to have it all handed to them on a __________ platter.
A. gold B. silver C. bronze D. earth
915. He tried to explain, but she gave him the third __________.
A. strike B. point C. level D. degree
916. It’s his last chance to prove himself — it’s do or __________.
A. lose B. drop C. die D. fail
917. They came out of the meeting grinning like a __________ cat.
A. lion B. Cheshire C. fat D. grinning

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
918. I wouldn’t worry — he’s got a few tricks up his __________.
A. pocket B. sleeve C. arm D. coat
919. She’s not interested in middle ground — it’s all or __________ for her.
A. enough B. zero C. nothing D. straight
920. When she took the stage, she knocked it out of the __________.
A. show B. world C. park D. game
921. The manager is walking a tightrope between cost-cutting and team __________.
A. support B. morale C. feedback D. approval
922. He talks a big game but rarely puts his money where his __________ is.
A. voice B. promise C. plan D. mouth
923. She’s not here just for show — she’s the real __________.
A. leader B. article C. deal D. core
924. When I saw the price tag, my jaw hit the __________.
A. wall B. floor C. paper D. door
925. That’s his Achilles’ __________ — he can’t deal with criticism.
A. mind B. plan C. weak spot D. heel
926. The boss is breathing down my __________ to finish the project.
A. neck B. list C. throat D. path
927. We need to touch __________ before the presentation.
A. goals B. screen C. minds D. base
928. She’s been giving me the runaround — I want a straight __________.
A. response B. line C. answer D. look
929. He’s always chasing __________ rainbows instead of focusing on real goals.
A. personal B. pretty C. golden D. paper
930. They wanted to talk shop, but I told them to give it a __________.
A. night B. break C. rest D. freeze
931. The project is still in the __________ stages.
A. early B. baby C. initial D. fledgling
932. She looked calm, but her stomach was in __________ as she waited to be called.
A. knots B. pain C. cramps D. circles
933. She was clearly quaking in her __________ before stepping on stage.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. shoes B. soul C. boots D. hands
934. When I saw his name on the list, my __________ skipped a beat.
A. brain B. eye C. voice D. heart
935. They were clearly reading from the same __________ during the meeting.
A. script B. line C. hymn sheet D. rulebook
936. I’m not trying to rain on your __________, but this plan needs serious work.
A. speech B. effort C. meeting D. parade
937. It’s time we levelled the __________ — I need to be honest with you.
A. playing field B. ground C. truth D. deal
938. That joke really fell __________ — no one even smiled.
A. flat B. short C. sideways D. dull
939. You need to learn how to roll with the __________ in this fast-paced business.
A. work B. change C. punches D. plan
940. The moment I saw the CEO enter, I knew I was in the firing __________.
A. squad B. chamber C. line D. zone
941. She wears a lot of hats, but managing accounts is her bread and __________.
A. butter B. coin C. core D. soul
942. Their sudden silence spoke volumes — they had skeletons in the __________.
A. family B. house C. closet D. press
943. She jumped ship just before the company began to __________.
A. pivot B. crash C. tank D. soar
944. He's been coasting on his past achievements — it's time to separate the wheat from the __________.
A. stalk B. chaff C. shell D. husk
945. She had to eat her __________ when the product turned out to be a huge success.
A. plan B. hat C. pride D. glove
946. When asked about the project, he talked a good __________ but failed to deliver.
A. story B. bluff C. game D. case
947. That new policy is a political __________ — looks good, changes nothing.
A. facelift B. fig leaf C. disguise D. curtain
948. Don’t fall for his charm — he’s all fur coat and no __________.
A. content B. knickers C. character D. meaning

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
949. Let’s not reinvent the __________ — this process already works.
A. model B. system C. formula D. wheel
950. She has a sixth __________ for spotting fake smiles.
A. intuition B. sense C. eye D. thought
951. The new intern is as green as __________ — he’ll need close mentoring.
A. a frog B. mint C. lettuce D. grass
952. He got the promotion, but he knows which side his bread is __________.
A. cut B. made C. buttered D. given
953. The client dropped that hint out of the blue — a real __________ from left field.
A. surprise B. comment C. curveball D. turn
954. When the dust __________, we’ll finally see who was telling the truth.
A. settles B. clears C. drops D. ends
955. His promotion was clearly a case of jobs for the __________.
A. elite B. mates C. class D. few
956. There are no hills around and the area is as flat as a ____________.
A. stick B. coin C. feather D. pancake
957. He left the company under a __________ of secrecy.
A. cloak B. veil C. mist D. curtain
958. The party leader is clearly trying to ride two __________ at once by supporting both sides.
A. horses B. lions C. bikes D. deals
959. They promised reform, but it turned out to be just a damp __________.
A. rag B. match C. squib D. sponge
960. His apology was more of a backhanded __________ than a real one.
A. compliment B. gesture C. attack D. excuse
961. Her resignation sent shock __________ through the entire industry.
A. pulses B. tremors C. echoes D. waves
962. He’s a dyed-in-the-__________ conservative who won’t change his views.
A. wool B. thread C. cloth D. grain
963. She’s the type who always puts her __________ where her mouth is.
A. hand B. promise C. money D. time
964. That lawyer is known for cutting through the red __________.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. string B. tape C. layer D. lock
965. I know this is a long shot, but it's worth a __________.
A. go B. shot C. turn D. wish
966. He only apologized to save his own __________, not because he meant it.
A. grace B. skin C. name D. stance
967. When questioned, the spokesperson stonewalled and gave nothing but motherhood and __________
statements.
A. pancake B. apple pie C. soft shell D. pumpkin
968. She threw her cap over the __________ and committed to the plan fully.
A. tower B. hedge C. fence D. battlement
969. Their argument was nothing more than a tempest in a __________.
A. kettle B. flagon C. decanter D. teapot
970. She’s inclined to go at things hammer and __________, without much planning.
A. nails B. shield C. board D. tongs
971. That politician often plays to the peanut __________ to distract from real issues.
A. gallery B. crowd C. seat D. chorus
972. The plan was mothballed after it failed to gain __________.
A. funds B. traction C. root D. airtime
973. The reform package was railroaded through with barely a __________ of debate.
A. whimper B. whisper C. squeak D. murmur
974. After the scandal, he was left to hang out to __________ by his entire cabinet.
A. dry B. expire C. burn D. drop
975. Their public bickering was pure political theatre — full of sound and __________.
A. thunder B. shadows C. fury D. venom
976. He was hoist with his own __________ when the emails were leaked.
A. trap B. flag C. petard D. saber
977. They’re trying to bell the __________, but no one wants to be first.
A. lion B. dog C. cat D. viper
978. She knows how to keep her __________ dry in any political storm.
A. conscience B. powder C. ledger D. record
979. They are trying to square the __________ by appealing to both sides.

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
A. triangle B. ledger C. circle D. vote
980. The new intern is green as __________ when it comes to office politics.
A. verdure B. envy C. goosegrass D. gooseberries
981. His apology was too little, too late — a day late and a dollar __________.
A. lacking B. poor C. short D. missed
982. The failed summit was another nail in the diplomatic __________.
A. track B. box C. coffin D. grave
983. The rebels took to the hills and faded into the __________.
A. hedge B. bracken C. scenery D. woodwork
984. They called the shots from behind the __________ — total manipulation.
A. scenes B. curtain C. veil D. glass
985. We’ve crossed the __________ — no turning back now.
A. border B. wire C. Rubicon D. breach
986. He was given a free __________ to overhaul the department.
A. contract B. hand C. rein D. flag
987. The company is clearly rearranging the deck chairs on the __________.
A. Titanic B. shipwreck C. sinking D. lifeboat
988. He promised reform, but it turned out to be just castles in the __________.
A. mist B. air C. clouds D. wind
989. The general ordered his men to stand to their __________ and hold the line.
A. mark B. salt C. guns D. vow
990. The proposal was met with brickbats and __________ from the press.
A. laurels B. bouquets C. back-pats D. flattery
991. Their so-called neutrality was just a fig __________ for covert support.
A. curtain B. leaf C. veil D. screen
992. Her success story is a real rags to __________ tale.
A. riches B. laurels C. legacy D. silk
993. He speaks fluent nonsense — pure double __________.
A. speech B. speak C. thought D. tongue
994. The judge was careful not to fly too close to the __________ of bias.
A. fire B. truth C. sun D. line

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 1000 CÂU IDIOMS DẠNG TRẮC NGHIỆM ÔN THI HSG/ CHUYÊN
ANH – BÌNH BOONG
995. The rebels were hoist by their own __________ when their explosives backfired.
A. sabre B. petard C. pike D. stratagem
996. Their support melted away like snow off a __________.
A. roof B. hedge C. ditch D. dyke
997. She was given carte __________ to revamp the failing department.
A. blanche B. de guerre C. noir D. du jour
998. You’ll have to go the whole __________ if you want to impress the board.
A. nine yards B. mile and a half C. hog D. deck
999. His suggestion was the thin end of the __________ — a dangerous precedent.
A. blade B. wedge C. axe D. argument
1000. The idea might seem odd, but it's not beyond the __________ of possibility.
A. realm B. pale C. edge D. stretch
THE END

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