We have already learnt that an idiom is a mode of expression peculiar to a language. It is a group of words in a fixed order that has a particular meaning that is different from the meanings of each word understood on its own. Idioms cannot be translated word for word. They have become fixed through regular use with their figurative meanings. They should be used in their correct forms without dropping, adding or replacing any word. We cannot say 'breathe one's first' to mean 'to take birth' or 'unbreathe one's last' in the sense of 'not to die' etc. Hence we should consult a standard dictionary and learn to use them as they are.

1. When I arrived here I felt like a _______ out of water. (prawn, fish, crab)
2. He is an outspoken man. He________a spade a spade. (calls, says, pronounces)
3. The parents got their daughter married. Now they are _______ free. (house, residence,home)
4. Don't tell me a cock and ______ story. (hen, bull, cat)
5. You are a bit of a _______ horse. (quiet, dark, black)

1. bite the bullet ( ) a. a state of confusion or disarray
2. lose heart ( ) b. to accept something unpleasant without complaining
3. let the cat out of the bag ( ) c. bribe somebody
4. at sixes and sevens ( ) d. something that is very difficult to do or needs a lot of determination
5. grease one's palm ( ) e. be discouraged
6. an uphill battle ( ) f. try very hard
7. move heaven and earth ( ) g. reveal a secret