Idioms, Adages & Proverbs — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. "On thin ice" is an idiom because its figurative meaning differs from its literal words.
'On thin ice' is an idiom meaning in a risky or precarious situation.
2. "Honesty is the best policy" is an adage that states a general truth.
This is an adage — a widely accepted saying that states a general truth.
3. "Look before you leap" is a proverb because it gives practical advice.
This is a proverb — a traditional saying that gives practical advice about caution.
4. An idiom uses figurative language that cannot be understood from the individual words alone.
Idioms use figurative language — their meaning goes beyond the literal meaning of the words.
5. Both adages and proverbs are traditional sayings passed down over many years.
Adages and proverbs are traditional sayings from cultural history, passed down through generations.
6. "Burn the midnight oil" means to work late into the night.
'Burn the midnight oil' is an idiom meaning to work or study very late at night.
7. "Every cloud has a silver lining" means something good can come from a bad situation.
'Every cloud has a silver lining' means even bad situations have a positive aspect.
8. "The ball is in your court" means it is your turn to make a decision.
'The ball is in your court' is an idiom meaning the responsibility for action is now yours.
9. "Where there's a will, there's a way" means determination helps you find solutions.
This proverb means that determination and strong motivation help overcome obstacles.
Part B: Matching
Match each item on the left to the correct answer on the right.
1. Match each item to its correct answer.
Pull someone's leg
→ Idiom (joke)
Proverb
Two wrongs don't make a right
→ Adage
Idiom (joke)
A stitch in time saves nine
→ Proverb
Idiom (expensive)
Cost an arm and a leg
→ Idiom (expensive)
Adage
Pull someone's leg = idiom (joke/tease); Two wrongs don't make a right = adage; A stitch in time = proverb; Cost an arm and a leg = idiom (very expensive).