F3closest in Meaning

CLOSEST IN MEANING
Read the conversation and choose the best meaning for the phrases that are underlined.
Situation: Saljit’s mother is talking to her about a friend.
Mother : Do you remember Miss Baswant?

Saljit : I think she used to come to our house when I was small.
Mother : Yes, we got to know (a) each other when she worked in the
hair salon that I used to go to.
Saljit : She has not visited us for years.
Mother : We lost touch (b) when she went to India.
Saljit : I wonder what has become of her. (c)
Mother : She’s an actress in Bollywood now! I saw her picture in a
magazine.
1. got to know
A saw
B talked to
C liked about
D made friends with
2. lost touch
A had a quarrel
B stopped being friends
C lost each other’s address
D did not contact each other
3. what has become of her

A why she went away
B who knows about her
C when she will be back
D what has happened to her
Situation: Mee Chin is giving Tracy some notes.
Mee Chin : These are all the notes for this week’s lessons. I got my father to
photocopy a set for you.
Tracy : Since I broke my arm, you have been helping me with the notes.
I can’t thank you enough. (a)
Mee Chin : Don’t be silly. That’s what friends are for. (b)
Tracy : I’ll repay this favour somehow. If you ever need my help in the
future, you know you can count on (c) me.
4. I can’t thank you enough

A I won’t thank you.
B I’ll thank you later.
C Thank you so much.
D I don’t know how to thank people.
5. That’s what friends are for.

A I’m a friendly person.
B I want to be your friend.
C We have been friends for so long.
D That’s what friends are supposed to do.
6. count on
A inform
B depend on
C work with
D share with
Read the letter below and choose the best meaning for the phrases that are underlined.
Dear Brenda,
I sent a soft toy to your house yesterday. Hope you have

received it. It’s one of my favourites. So, do take care of it.
I will let you in (a) on something. Don’t tell anyone or I’ll be
a laughing stock (b). I have 500 such soft toy animals! They have cost my
parents a lot of money. I’m proud of my collection and I really
take the trouble (c) to keep them clean. If you want one for your sister,
Betty, do let me know.
Love,
Ann
7. let you in
A it is a secret
B keep a secret
C tell you a secret
D make it a secret
8. laughing stock
A someone who is always laughing
B someone who is treated as ridiculous
C someone who likes to crack jokes
D someone who is not taken seriously
9. take the trouble

A put in so much effort
B face such problems
C find a better solution
D do such a stupid thing
Situation: Zara and Hema are making Mother’s Day gifts.
10. at wit’s end

A forgot
B worried about
C run out of ideas
D didn’t think about
11. born with a silver spoon in my mouth

A born rich
B born lucky
C born clever
D born generous
12. can’t wait

A have no time
B am afraid
C am eager
D dislike
Read the text below and choose the best meaning for the phrases that are underlined.
Jenny is on the phone with Carol. She is telling Carol to meet her at the market.
“Let’s meet for breakfast today. We have not got together for ages.” (a)
Carol replies, “Sounds great. Since I have nothing better to do, (b) I will meet
you. But why the market? You know that I can’t stand (c) the smell of fish and the sight
of chickens being slaughtered.”
Jenny smiles and says, “All right. We’ll meet somewhere else. How about Bern
Café?”
“That’s better. See you in an hour,” shouts Carol.
13. for ages

A recently
B regularly
C for a while
D for a long time
14. I have nothing better to do

A I am free
B I need a break
C I am in the mood
D I am not feeling well
15. can’t stand

A am not interested in
B do not understand
C find it boring to
D cannot tolerate
Read the dialogue below and choose the best meaning for the phrases that are underlined.
Situation: Kassim is repairing Mrs Bawanee’s refrigerator.
Kassim : There doesn’t seem to be anything wrong; yet your fridge is not
cold. I can’t figure out (a) what the problem is.
Mrs Bawanee : What are you going to do now?
Kassim : I’ll have to take it back and check all the parts. It’ll take about
two weeks.
Mrs Bawanee : I can’t do without a fridge for two weeks! I’m in two minds (b)
whether to have it repaired or to buy a new one.
Kassim : Why don’t we loan you a fridge for the time being? (c)
Mrs Bawanee : That’s very kind of you!
16. figure out

A check
B remember
C understand
D inform you
17. I’m in two minds

A I’m worried
B I don’t mind
C I’m undecided
D I want your advice
18. for the time being

A for now
B for later
C as long as you like
D any period of time
Situation: Peggy is complaining about the lift in their apartment block to her mother.
Peggy : Mum, do you know that the lift is out of order (a) again?
Mother: It was fine when I came back a few minutes ago. We’ll have to let the
building supervisor know so that he can see to it (b) quickly.
Peggy : I’ve already informed him.
Mother : I’m thinking of selling this apartment and buying a house. Then we won’t
have to face problems like this.
Peggy : I’m behind you all the way! (c) I’ve had enough of walking up ten flights
of steps!
19. out of order

A damaged
B very dirty
C not working
D not switched on
20. see to it
A settle
B replace
C improve on
D give attention to
21. I’m behind you all the way!

A I understand you.
B You have my fullest support.
C Do you mean what you said?
D You had better think carefully.
Read the speech below and choose the best meaning for the phrases that are underlined.
Good morning, students. The school Sports Day is tomorrow. I know many of you have
put your shoulders to the wheel. (a) To these students, I say ‘thank you.’
Always set high standards (b) in whatever you do. Work hard and you will reap the
benefits. (c) Those who put in minimum work will achieve little too. I hope you take note of my
advice and follow it. Be punctual on the sports field tomorrow.
22. put your shoulders to the wheel

A run fast
B talked a lot
C worked hard
D practised much
23. set high standards

A aim high
B jump high
C from a height
D pay a high price
24. reap the benefits

A win
B make profits
C achieve much
D score good grades
Situation: Kamala is teaching Norlia how to dye a skirt.
25. looking forward to

A interested in
B quite sure about
C paying attention to
D spending some time
26. Are you following me?

A Are you behind me?
B Do you understand?
C Can you repeat what I said?
D Are you doing what I’m doing?
27. keep on
A try
B stop
C start
D continue
Read the message below and choose the best meaning for the phrases that are underlined.
Dear Fiona,
I have to rush off, so I did not get to talk to you. Anyway, let’s go to the
ice-skating rink this evening.
I promise I will not make fun of (a) you if you fall. However, if skating is
not your cup of tea, (b) we can do something else. Do call me then and let me
know what you prefer. Anything you suggest suits me fine. (c) See you!
Kenny
28. make fun of

A laugh at
B look funny
C make me laugh
D have a lot of fun
29. not your cup of tea

A not nice
B not a good idea
C never done that
D not interested in that
30. suits me fine

A I’m feeling good
B I have no choice
C I like that
D do what you like
Situation: Geetha is approaching Dollah about a commotion nearby.
Geetha : Hi, Dollah! What’s up? (a)

Dollah : I just got here myself. All I know is someone has passed out. (b)
Geetha : Those people shouldn’t be crowding around. The victim needs fresh air.
Dollah : You’re a member of the Red Crescent. Why don’t you see if you can help?
Geetha : I’ll have to get through the crowd. Hello, everybody! Make way, (c)
please!
31. What’s up
A Who is over there?
B What’s happening?
C Where are you going?
D Is there something up there?
32. passed out

A died
B fainted
C got good results
D met with an accident
33. Make way

A Let me pass
B Stand far away
C Do something useful
D Let us find a way to help
Read the news report below and choose the best meaning for the phrases that are underlined.
Klang, Mon: An accident occurred at Jalan King this morning when a van crashed into a truck.
Both drivers were not injured. However, they blamed each for the crash.
The van driver, Ali, said, “The truck driver was too much. (a) After the crash, he wanted
to fight with me.”
Chee Keong defended himself by saying, “I did not blame him for the crash. What made
me lose my cool (b) was his behaviour. He shouted at me.”
Ali denied doing that. He merely said that Chee Keong tried to find fault with (c) him so
that he did not have to accept the blame for the accident. Meanwhile, the police are investigating
the cause of the accident.
34. too much

A unreasonable
B dishonest
C stupid
D silly
35. lose my cool

A become sad
B become angry
C feel worried
D feel embarrassed
36. find fault with

A explain to
B prove to
C frighten
D blame
Situation: Esther and Iqbal are comparing their exam results.
37. flying colours

A poor grades
B good results
C average marks
D very good grades
38. just round the corner

A very near
B announced
C being held
D over
39. learnt your lesson

A studied harder
B paid more attention
C realised your mistake
D concentrated on your lessons
Ivy and Aida are waiting at the taxi stand. They are getting very impatient.
Ivy groans, “We’ve been standing here for twenty minutes. If we don’t get a taxi soon we
won’t be on time.” (a)
Aida, the cheerful one, says, “Don’t worry so much. Let’s keep our fingers crossed (b)
that a taxi will come by soon.”
However, Ivy knows better than that. She looks at the other side of the road and
comments, “Do you notice that there are more taxis on the other side of the road? It should be
easier to get one there.”
Aida agrees, “You’ve got a point there. (c) Come on, let’s cross the road.”
40. won’t be on time

A will be late
B will arrive punctually
C will still have a little time
D won’t have much time left
41. keep our fingers crossed

A wave
B hope
C signal
D imagine
42. You’ve got a point there.

A You’re pointing in the wrong direction.
B I don’t understand your point.
C We can try your idea.
D You’re right.
Situation: Dhillon’s father is not happy with his results.
Father : You failed every subject! I’m lost for words. (a)
Dhillon : I’m really sorry. I know you will look down on (b) me.
Father : No, I won’t. But I just wish you would try harder or you’ll
get nowhere. (c)
Dhillon : I promise I will.
43. I’m lost for words.

A I’m so shocked.
B I don’t understand.
C I don’t know what to say.
D I’m going to give you a good scolding.
44. look down on

A punish
B get angry with
C be disappointed with
D have a low opinion of
45. get nowhere

A not be allowed out
B get into trouble
C have problems
D not progress
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. What I am going to say tonight concerns all of you. As the
saying goes, ‘Health is wealth.’ (a) I’m sure all of you agree with me. Health means being able
to do what we want, play games and lead an active life. We cannot compromise on our health.
(b) So, what do we do? Eat healthily and exercise regularly. To show you I practice what I
preach, (c) I will organise a badminton game tonight. Anyone interested?
46. Health is wealth

A Health sounds like wealth
B The ways to be healthy
C Health is very important
D Eat, exercise and be healthy
47. cannot compromise our health

A cannot overeat
B cannot exercise too much
C cannot have healthy habits
D must not neglect our health
48. practice what I preach

A preach to me
B preach and act
C become a preacher
D carry out what I say
Situation: Zaitun’s father is asking her to help him plant some seeds.
49. take advantage of

A take seriously
B make use of
C remember
D wait for
50. in the mood

A fit
B free
C ready
D interested in
51. do you good

A help you
B attract you
C benefit you
D remind you
Paul and his mother are in their garden. His mother is showing him how to plant papaya
seeds. Paul is amazed that papaya trees are grown by using the seeds of the fruit.
His mother explains to him, “Papaya trees grow very fast and we’ll have papayas to eat in
no time.” (a)
“That’s great. Should I cover the seeds?” asked Paul.
“Yes, you should. Well, we’re done. Today will always be close to my heart (b) because
we planted something together, son.”
Paul felt the same. He added quickly, “I’ll get the watering can. We can then call it a
day.” (c)
52. in no time
A some time in the future
B after a period of time
C immediately
D very soon
53. close to my heart

A a tiring day
B a fruitful day
C very painful for me
D very important to me
54. call it a day

A stop work for today
B continue the next day
C finish the job later today
D do some more another day
Read the conversation below and choose the best meaning for the phrases that are underlined.
Situation: Meng Yew is asking Basri about a fight he had with his friend.
Meng Yew : What happened between the both of you?

Basri : He jumped down my throat (a) when I tried to help him.
Meng Yew : What did you try to do?
Basri : He’s joining a story-telling contest. He asked for my opinion but
we didn’t see eye to eye (b) on how he should tell the story.
Meng Yew : So he was angry you didn’t like the way he wanted to do it.
Basri : Yes. He told me to mind my own business (c) and soon we
started fighting.
55. jumped down my throat

A hit me
B scolded me
C blamed me
D held me by the throat
56. see eye to eye

A agree
B discuss
C have any idea
D meet often enough
57. mind my own business

A help him
B stop interfering
C apologise to him
D be careful of my manners
Situation: Mark was trying to convince Leong to go after the ostrich again. They were visiting an
ostrich farm and both had set their eyes on a big striking ostrich.
Mark shouted, “Let’s go after it, Leong!”

Leong shot the idea down (a) for he knew it was an impossible task. However, Mark was
sure they could catch the bird, this time around. He really wanted to see the ostrich up close.
Leong was getting fed up. (b)
Seeing the look on Leong’s face, Mark stopped insisting. Instead, he said “We’ll think of
something.” (c)
58. shot the idea down

A agreed with the idea
B suggested using a gun to shoot
C said it was a foolish idea
59. fed up
A tired
B angry
C bored
D impatient
60. We’ll think of something.

A We’ll think of an idea.
B We’ll have to think carefully.
C We’ll get more people to think.
D We must do some serious thinking.
Situation: Jefri and Adam are quarrelling.
Jefri : I won’t listen to you anymore. What you’re saying

doesn’t make sense. (a)
Adam : Of course, it does. You always think you’re right and I’m wrong.
Jefri : Oh, just get off my back! (b)
Adam : Suit yourself but don’t come crying to me when your world falls apart. (c)
Jefri : I won’t!
61. doesn’t make sense

A is a lie
B is not logical
C is hurting me
D doesn’t concern me
62. get off my back

A get out of the room
B don’t touch my back
C don’t annoy me
D stop talking
63. your world falls apart

A something bad happens
B you fall and hurt yourself
C your friends leave you
D your heart breaks
64. out of your mind

A crazy
B joking
C serious
D satisfied
65. gateway to a bright future

A have a good future
B predict a bright future
C means to do well in the future
D what kind of future
66. think before you leap

A imagine what will happen
B if you want, leap then
C think first before you leap
D consider carefully before you carry out the action
Situation: Siew Peng is at the library.
Siew Peng : Excuse me, I’d like to apply for membership.

Librarian : Please fill in the application form.
Siew Peng : Can I submit my application straight away? (a)
Librarian : Yes, but you can’t borrow any books yet.
Siew Peng : I beg your pardon? (b)
Librarian : You can’t borrow books yet because your application may be
turned down. (c)
67. straight away

A later
B by mail
C immediately
D when I am away
68. I beg your pardon?

A Can I hear you?
B Please speak louder.
C Please repeat what you said.
D Do you know what you’re saying?
69. turned down

A lost
B delayed
C rejected
D incomplete
Good morning, students. Today, we bid farewell (a) to Puan Aminah who is retiring
today. She has been a pillar of strength (b) to her students. She has advised and guided us well.
We will always remember her favourite words ‘Hard work is the key to success.’ (c) Thank you,
Puan Aminah. We wish you all the best in the years to come.
70. bid farewell

A leave now
B bring along
C say goodbye
D wave a hand
71. pillar of strength

A source of inspiration
B good friend
C related
D a post
72. Hard work is the key to success.

A Success is good for us.
B We need to use a key.
C To work hard, we must have success.
D To be successful, we have to work hard.
Situation: Gopal is at the youth club.
Gopal : I’d like to find out (a) more about the treasure hunt.
Secretary : You must fill in a form and pay RM10 to join.
Gopal : Kamal told me it’s free.
Secretary : He’s a member of the club but you’re not.
Gopal : Oh, I see. (b) When will the treasure hunt be held?
Secretary : We had planned it for 15 July but there’s a chance (c) the
date will be changed.
73. find out

A to talk
B to know
C to inform
D to make changes
74. Oh, I see

A That’s not fair.
B I understand now.
C I’m not interested then.
D I’ll then see him about this.
75. there’s a chance

A it’s possible
B you will be told
C there’s a request
D we have decided
Situation: Wahid is annoyed with Yahya.
Wahid : What do you mean by saying I’m selfish? I’ve always shared
things with you.
Yahya : I’m sorry. I didn’t know you would take it to heart. (a) I didn’t
mean it. It’s just that I was unhappy you wouldn’t let me copy
your homework.
Wahid : You know that’s not right. Let me talk some sense into (b) you.
We’ll both get into trouble if I let you copy my work. Besides,
I’ll be spoiling you, not helping you.
Yahya : I realise that. You know how I speak rubbish (c) sometimes.
76. take it to heart

A be so selfish
B take it seriously
C hear what I said
D scold me about it
77. talk some sense into

A talk quietly with
B help you see reason
C discuss calmly with
D express my feelings to
78. speak rubbish

A try to be neat
B talk nonsense
C say what I think
D make a mess of my life
Good morning, fellow members. First, I must start by explaining why the Hobby Club
has been so inactive lately. Yes, many of us have been under the weather (a) the last two months.
The flu virus has hit some of us. But now, we are much better. So, we should not take it too easy.
(b) I suggest that we start making plans. We can do with (c) some interesting activities such as
visits and exhibitions. Any suggestions?
79. under the weather

A not feeling very well
B do not like this weather
C the weather is so warm
D stayed in the sun too long
80. take it too easy

A take medicine
B solve the problem
C relax too much
D go to bed
81. can do with

A need
B can learn
C must practise
D know how to do
Situation: Kim Fong and her mother are shopping.
Kim Fong : Which lipstick colour is nicer?

Mother : Let me see. I can’t tell this from that. (a)
Kim Fong : This is slightly lighter and the colour is prettier.
Mother : You’re the one who is going to use it. To me, they’re
like two peas in a pod! (b)
Kim Fong : I’ll settle for this one. (c)
82. tell this from that

A tell them apart
B decide for you
C make up my mind
D can’t say I like this or that
83. like two peas in a pod

A very pretty
B like vegetables
C just like any lipstick
D exactly the same
84. settle for

A consider
B choose
C wear
D like
Situation: Fairuz is caught by a prefect for being late.
Prefect : You’re late again, Fairuz!

Fairuz : My alarm clock didn’t ring.
Prefect : You’re just cooking up (a) an excuse.
Fairuz : You prefects are only good at catching latecomers.
Perfect : You’re going too far. (b) You know you make a habit of being late.
Fairuz : I’m sorry. Please don’t punish me.
Prefect : I have to. You must learn to abide by (c) the rules.
85. cooking up
A copying
B inventing
C giving me
D believing in
86. going too far

A living too far away
B being unreasonable
C moving away from me
D standing not close enough
87. abide by
A memorise
B break
C obey
D study
Situation: Dennis is calling Imran on the phone.
Dennis : May I speak to Imran, please?

Imran : Speaking. You’re not calling to snap at (a) me again, are you, Dennis?
Dennis : No, I want to apologise to you about today. I was in the wrong.
Imran : Well, I’ll let bygones be bygones, (b) since you admit your mistake.
Dennis : Thanks! The problem with me is I don’t use my common sense. (c)
Imran : At least you know your weakness. Don’t worry, we’re still friends.
88. snap at
A say something loudly
B say something softly and gently
C say something quickly in an angry way
D say something clearly and loudly
89. let bygones be bygones

A forgive and forget
B forgive but cannot forget
C remember the past
90. use my common sense

A listen
B have a brain
C think logically
D do anything right
From the options A, B, C and D, select the answer which is closest in meaning to the expression
underlined in the conversations.
Situation: Kamal and Azizah have just been made prefects.
Kamal : You look quite stern in your prefect’s uniform.

Azizah : Don’t you poke fun at me! (a)
Kamal : That’s supposed to be a compliment. You look different from your
usual timid self and that helps when you need to discipline the students.
Azizah : I don’t know. There’s a chance (b) nobody will listen to me.
Kamal : You’ve been given the opportunity to lead and you must take up (c)
the challenge.
Azizah : I know. I’ll do my best.
91. poke fun at

A joke with
B laugh at
C lie to
D scold
92. There’s a chance

A I’m sure
B Hopefully
C It’s unlikely
D It’s possible
93. take up
A accept
B try
C join
D fight.
Situation: The hockey coach has appointed Amran as the captain of the team.
Coach : How do you feel about being made captain?

Amran : On top of the world! (a) It’s a real honour.
Coach : You’ll be assisting me quite a bit.
Amran : I hope I can carry out (b) my responsibilities well.
Coach : I don’t foresee any problems. After all, you get along with (c)
everyone in the team.
94. On top of the world

A I’m a little surprised.
B Wonderful
C Proud!
D All right, I guess.
95. carry out

A finish
B learn
C make
D perform
96. get along with

A go out with
B guide
C care for
D have a good relationship with
Situation: Ee Vian is asking her teacher for advice.
Ee Vian : Dad wants me to quit school to play squash. You know, like
what our champion squash player, Ong Beng Hee, did. On the
other hand, Mum wants me to continue studying.
I’m at a loss (a) as to what to do.
Teacher : What do you really want to do?
Ee Vian : Play squash! If I don’t make it (b), I will go back to my studies.
Teacher : Have a heart-to-heart (c) talk with your Mum.
Ee Vian : Do you think she’ll listen?
Teacher : You won’t know till you’ve tried.
97. I’m at a loss

A I don’t know
B I forgot
C Help me
D Advise me
98. make it
A like it
B succeed
C have time
D practise
99. heart-to-heart
A long
B frank
C careful
D interesting
Situation: Lina is telling her mother about a taking up a part-time job.

A creative
B sure
C crazy
D stupid
101. spinning
A singing
B learning
C enjoying
D playing
102. blow his top

A get very angry
B advise you
C be unhappy
D discourage you
Situation: Mr and Mrs Vincent are in their garden.
Mrs Vincent : I’m so fed up of (a) looking at that mountain of rubbish across
the road.
Mr Vincent : It’s really an eyesore. (b)
Mrs Vincent : All our complaints to the authorities seem to
have fallen on deaf ears. (c)
103. fed up of
A worried about
B tired of
C afraid of
D angry at
104. an eyesore
A bad for the eyes
B an ugly sight
C dangerous for the eyes
D likely to cause eye diseases
105. have fallen on deaf ears

A have gone to the wrong people
B have been misunderstood
C have been ignored
D have worsened the situation
Situation: Nora and her mother are going to the market when they witness an accident.
Nora : Oh, my goodness! That van knocked down a man.

Mother : Don’t look, Nora. You know you can’t stand (a) the sight of blood.
Nora : Let’s get out of here right away. (b) I hope I won’t dream about this
tonight.
Mother : Just put it behind you (c) and you will be all right.
106. can’t stand

A can’t bear
B worry about
C feel bad at
D avoid
107. right away

A and turn right
B and go far away
C as soon as we can
D immediately
108. put it behind you

A don’t look behind you
B forget about it
C close your eyes
D walk behind me
Situation: Siew Peng and Devi are discussing a trip to Genting Highlands.
Siew Peng : I’d like to bring along my little sister. She has not been feeling
well lately and the fresh air will do her good. (a)
Devi : All right. She won’t feel out of place (b) because my niece is
coming, too. She can keep your sister company.
Siew Peng : We have to buy more food since there are two extra persons
coming on the trip.
Devi : We’ll split the bill. (c) Let’s talk about the transportation.
109. do her good

A heal her
B benefit her
C cool her down
D interest her
110. out of place

A left out
B scared
C bored
D unhappy
111. split the bill

A make a list
B pay for them
C bring our own things
D share the expenses
Situation: Kumar and Mark are at the viewing deck, at the top of the Kuala Lumpur Tower.
Kumar : I have never been so high up a building before.

I can’t believe the view. (a)
Mark : I’ve been told one can even see the Straits of Melaka. How come
I can’t spot it? (b)
Kumar : It’s too misty and cloudy.
Mark : Oh, I see! (c)
112. I can’t believe the view

A The view is incredible.
B I don’t believe the building is so high.
C There’s nothing impressive about the view.
D I think I’m dreaming.
113. spot it
A see spots
B see it
C see spots in it
D there is a spot on the window
114. Oh, I see!

A I know.
B I’ll try harder.
C I can see it now!
D I understand now.
Situation: It is drizzling and Mr and Mrs Chan are at a bus stop.
Mr Chan : The roof is leaking! I’m getting all wet.

Mrs Chan : This bus stop is in a sorry state. (a)
Mr Chan : You can say that again! (b) Waiting here is not any different
than standing in the open.
Mrs Chan : Let’s run over to that building. Come on, (c) the rain’s getting
heavier.
115. a sorry state

A bad shape
B a poor location
C an uncompleted condition
D need of more space
116. You can say that again

A What did you say?
B I totally agree with you!
C Please speak louder.
D I don’t understand.
117. Come on
A Are you coming?
B Let us go
C Hurry up
D Be careful
Situation: Mano and Halim are staying in a resthouse.
Mano : This place is really old. This is the first time I’m staying in a wooden
building.
Halim : Places like this give me the creeps. (a) They make me think of ghosts
and stuff like that.
Mano : Don’t talk rubbish! (b)
Halim : I really think I can hear some weird sounds.
Mano : Your imagination is running wild. (c) I’m going to bed.
118. give me the creeps

A remind me of home
B help me to relax
C make me scared
D bring back memories
119. Don’t talk rubbish!

A You’re too talkative!
B That’s not true!
C You’ve got bad breath.
D Stop saying foolish things!
120. Your imagination is running wild.

A You’ve got an over-active mind.
B You’re not thinking.
C You are going crazy.
D You’re too tired.
Situation: Bee Ling is telling Pam about how she caught her flight.
Bee Ling : We nearly missed the flight! We were caught in a traffic jam but
luckily we got there just in the nick of time.(a)
Pam : You must have run all the way to the aeroplane.
Bee Ling : That was exactly what we did. I had barely caught my breath
when the plane took off. (b)
Pam : How long was the flight?
Bee Ling : About three hours. I was so tired I slept all the way until the
plane touched down. (c)
121. in the nick of time

A a little early
B a little late
C just in time
D time to spare
122. took off

A moved
B started
C flew
D switched on
123. touched down

A moved slowly
B stopped
C landed
D switched off
Situation: Wong is buying an air ticket from a ticketing clerk.
Clerk : You must check in (a) at the MAS counter an hour before your flight.
Wong : I normally check in earlier to get a good seat. I also like to
take my time (b) to walk around the duty-free shops.
Clerk : I can see that you’re a seasoned traveller. (c)
Wong : You’re right.
124. check in
A arrive
B find
C report
D register
125. take my time

A quickly
B slowly
C spend time
D wate some time to
126. seasoned traveller

A a wise tourist
B a careful passenger
C an experienced traveler
D a person who travels every season
Situation: Mr Lim has some good news for his wife.
Mr Lim : You’re not going to believe this! I’ve been nominated for the
Best Salesman of the Year! We could win a trip for our family
to Australia.
Mrs Lim : What? Stop kidding. (a)
Mr Lim : It’s true! This is really something out of the blue. (b)
Mrs Lim : Let’s tell the children. They’ll be over the moon. (c)
127. Stop kidding

A Stop being so childish.
B You’re dreaming!
C I don’t believe it.
D Do you believe that?
128. out of the blue

A unexpected
B incredible
C wonderful
D interesting
129. over the moon

A overjoyed
B thankful
C satisfied
D shocked
Situation: Gopal and his father are getting ready to attend the Thaipusam celebrations.
Gopal : I want to carry a kavadi, too.

Father : That’s out of the question. (a) You must fast and prepare yourself first.
Maybe you can carry one next year.
Gopal : You’re always putting it off. (b) You said the same thing last year.
Fahter : Don’t forget that you’ve just recovered from chickenpox. You’re much
too weak now.
Gopal : It’s just too bad, (c) I guess.
130. out of the question

A not a question
B not allowed
C impossible
D too late
131. putting if off

A discouraging me
B postponing it
C spoiling it
D making me wait
132. too bad

A difficult
B unwise
C dangerous
D unfortunate
Situation: Guat Nee and Farah are talking on the telephone.
Guat Nee : Do you have anything lined up (a) for tomorrow?

Farah : What have you got in mind? (b)
Guat Nee : You said you were interested in going to the museum. Well,
my parents are bringing me there tomorrow. Would you like
to come along? (c)
133. lined up
A to line up
B arranged
C meetings
D free time
134. What have you got in mind?

A I don’t mind telling you.
B Have you got some problems?
C What ideas do you have?
D Why don’t you guess?
135. come along

A come to ny house
B meet us there
C go with us
D go by yourself
Situation: Dinesh is telling his father about his intended trip to the zoo.
Dinesh : I’m going to the zoo with some friends tomorrow.

Father : With your examination coming up, (a) I would rather you didn’t.
Dinesh : It’ll only be for half a day. Give me a break, (b) Dad.
Father : All right. I know how fascinated you are with animals.
Dinesh : Thanks! I’ll have a whale of a time! (c)
136. coming up
A approaching
B so long away
C taking place
D just over
137. Give me a break

A Do me a favour
B It’s not my fault
C Give me permission
D Let me have a rest
138. a whale of a time

A fun watching a whale
B an enjoyable time
C lots of free time
D some time to relax
Situation: Gina’s father is explaining to her the procedure of applying for a driving licence.
Father : The first thing you should do is to enrol yourself in a driving school.
Gina : There’s one next to the market but I’ve heard it charges a very high fee.
Father : I’ll find you a reputable one. I don’t you to be taken for a ride. (a)
Gina : Do I get to learn how to drive immediately?
Father : No, only after learning the road signs. You must pay heed to (b) that
because you will have to sit for a computerised test in addition to the
road test.
Gina : I’m so nervous. You know I’ve got butter fingers. (c) What if I engage
the wrong gear?
139. taken for a ride

A driven by somebody
B cheated
C in a hurry
D taken to far places
140. pay heed to

A spend extra money on
B work hard on
C memorise all
D pay full attention to
141. I’ve got butter fingers

A I have soft hands
B My fingers are weak
C I’m clumsy
D I am timid
Situation: Mohan and Paul are visiting a printing factory.
Mohan : The noise here is deafening.

Paul : What do you expect with so many printing presses running at the
same time?
Mohan : I wonder how the workers put up with it. (a)
Paul : I suppose they’re used to it. It’s beginning to get on my nerves. (b)
Mohan : What bothers me is the smell of ink.
Paul : I guess we’re both not cut out for (c) the printing line.
142. put up with it

A listen to
B forget about
C tolerate
D control
143. get on my nerves

A irritate me
B make me sick
C frighten me
D disturb me
144. cut out for

A qualified for
B suited for
C prepared fro
D experienced in
Situation: Heng and Johan are drawing charts.
Heng : You’re going to great lengths (a) drawing the pie chart.
Johan : If I don’t use a compass, I can’t draw a perfect circle. You can do
better than that, Heng. Your bar chart is untidy.
Heng : I can’t be bothered. (b) It’s just homework and not a test.
Johan : Shame on you (c) for saying that!
145. going to great lengths

A doing things the long way
B using too long lines
C having a wonderful time
D putting in a lot of hard work
146. I can’t be bothered

A Why are you so interested?
B What does it matter to you?
C I don’t care about it.
D I’m not good at it.
147. Shame on you

A You ought to be ashamed
B I’m ashamed of you
C What a pity
D Don’t feel ashamed
Situation: Eileen and Julia are interpreting a chart.
Eileen : It beats me (a) why boys spend so much time playing video games.
Julia : They’ve got nothing else better to do, (b) I guess.
Eileen : Girls prefer chatting with friends. I suppose that makes us more talkative.
Julia : Without a doubt! (c)
148. It beats me
A I can’t understand
B I’m surprised
C It frightens me
D I’ve never thought
149. They’ve got nothing else better to do

A They’re useless people
B They’re too free
C They’re very playful
D They haven’t any hobbies
150. Without a doubt!

A Definitely
B Maybe.
C I don’t think so.
D You may be right.
Situation: Fauzi is telling Ganesh about his job interview.
Fauzi : I created such a bad impression that I’m sure I won’t get the job.
Ganesh : Don’t feel so bad.
Fauzi : It’s easy for you to say that. Unlike you, I was not
born with a silver spoon in my mouth. (a)
Ganesh : There’s still a ray of hope (b) until your application is rejected.
Fauzi : I guess I’ll have to stick to being a bus driver for now. It’s a tough job
but beggars can’t be choosers. (c)

A born to work in a restaurant
B born to have a good life
C born into a rich family
D born with a lot of luck
152. a ray of hope

A plenty of hope
B a way
C time
D a slim chance
153. beggars can’t be choosers

A I’m just a beggar
B I have no choice
C I won’t beg
D It’s better than being a beggar
Situation: Kim is talking about a job interview with her mother.
Kim : I’m so nervous, Mum. I’m at my wit’s end (a) over what to wear.
Mother : A simple skirt and blouse will be suitable.
Kim : I’m not confident about my chances. They probably want somebody
experienced with good academic qualifications. I may
fall short of the mark.(b)
Mother: Just give it a try. I heard that the company pays quite well.
Kim : I’m not asking for the stars. (c) I’ll be contented with a very low salary.
154. at my wit’s end

A not witty
B do not have a witty idea
C have no more ideas to play with
D so worried because I have run out of ideas
155. fall short of the mark

A slip and fall
B be too short
C not have enough marks
D not be up to the standard
156. asking for the stars.

A expecting any salary
B wanting to be a star
C asking for something unreasonable
D asking how much salary to ask for
Situation: Peggy and Indra have just finished watching a movie.
Peggy : Wasn’t it wonderful the way the two girls remained friends
through thick and thin? (a)
Indra : If only that happens more often in real life. Finding a true friend
nowadays is like looking for a needle in a haystack. (b)
Peggy : We would be a laughing stock (c) if we made the sacrifices the girls
make for each other.
Indra : You’re right. People would say we’re crazy. Our society is less caring
nowadays.
157. through thick and thin

A all their lives
B without fighting
C whether they were poor or rich
D in spite of all kinds of difficulties
158. like looking for a needle in a haystack

A harder than sewing
B almost impossible
C quite common
D not popular
159. laughing stock

A foolish people
B laughing people
C funny people
D an example for people
Situation: Gopal is being scolded by his father.
Father : Stop mixing with that group of gangsters! We don’t need a

black sheep (a) in the family.
Gopal : I won’t be influenced by them.
Father : Before you know it, you will have picked up their bad ways!
You’re playing with fire. (b)
Gopal : You don’t trust me!
Father : It’s they I do not trust. They’re so cunning that you’ll be
led by the nose (c) before you realise what is happening.
160. black sheep

A stupid person
B troublesome person
C person with bad luck
D a person who brings disgrace
161. You’re playing with fire

A You’re doing something dangerous.
B You’re wasting your time.
C You’ll burn yourself.
D You’re so childish!
162. led by the nose

A punched in the nose
B leading the gang
C following blindly
D beaten or killed
Situation: Siti is telling Niza about a letter from their old classmate.
Siti : Something terrible has happened to Yati. She says I can tell you about
it but you must keep it to yourself. (a)
Niza : I will. I give you my word. (b)
Siti : Her parents are seeking a divorce.
Niza : Oh, poor Yati! She loves her parents so much. Her world must be all
topsy-turvy (c) now.
Siti : Yes. The worst thing is she has to choose the parent she wants to live
with.
163. keep it to yourself

A store it somewhere
B discuss it with me only
C not tell anyone the secret
D not ask her any questions
164. I give you my word

A I promise.
B I will write it down.
C I can do it.
D I’ll tell you my secret.
165. topsy-turvy
A sad mood
B bad temper
C confused state
D dangerous situation
Situation: Dennis and Nor are looking at a notice about job vacancies.
Nor : Let’s try this company. They have so many vacancies that I’m sure
there will be something suitable for us.
Dennis : Most of the jobs are for girls but we can apply to be handymen. That
means doing small repairs and odd jobs.
Nor : Forget about it then. Unlike you, I’m not a Jack of all trades. (a)
Dennis : It will be simple work. You’re not chickening out, (b) are you?
Nor : Far from it. (c) If you think you can handle it, so can I!
166. a Jack of all trades

A good at trading
B a smart boy
C used to doing many jobs at one time
D a person who knows a bit of everything
167. chickening out

A being fussy about something
B complaining about the chicken
C getting worried for the chicken
D changing your mind because of fear
168. Far from it

A Not at all.
B Maybe.
C I don’t know
D The place of work is too far
Situation: Haliza and Li Li are looking through an entertainment magazine.
Haliza : This is interesting. Do you remember Shirley Baker?

Li Li : She acted in many movies before she got married.
Haliza : Well, she is making a comeback. (a)
Li Li : I don’t like her. She’s pretty but her dressing is always so
out of date. (b)
Haliza : But she’s a good actress. I think she’s out of this world. (c)
169. making a comeback

A coming back here
B going back to acting
C turning her back on acting
D making a lot money
170. out of date

A ugly
B plain
C untidy
D old-fashioned
171. out of this world

A strange
B famous
C wonderful
D mysterious
Situation: Dave has spilt ink on his homework.
Dave : Oh, no! Look what I’ve done!

Mother: Can you soak it up with a tissue?
Dave : No, it’s useless. I spent two hours writing the essay. All my effort
has gone down the drain. (a)
Mother: What a pity, son. When do you have to hand in (b) your homework?
Dave : Tomorrow. I guess I’ll have to burn the midnight oil (c) now.
172. has gone down the drain

A has been wasted
B is not enough
C has gone wrong
D cannot be measured
173. hand in
A do
B finish
C submit
D correct
174. burn the midnight oil

A sleep at midnight
B work late
C try harder
D light the lamp
Situation: Kit is comforting Nasir who accidentally burnt his photograph album.
Kit : I know the album meant a lot to you but try not to feel so bad.
Nasir : I can kick myself. (a) I forgot I had kept the album in the box of
old papers.
Kit : I don’t understand why you burnt the papers instead of dumping them.
Open burning is an offence.
Nasir : I didn’t know that. If I had, my album wouldn’t be
reduced to ashes now. (b)
Kit : I guess it’s just not your day. (c)
175. I can kick myself

A I hurt myself.
B I blame myself.
C I’m really clumsy.
D I’m so angry with myself.
176. reduced to ashes

A so dirty
B misplaced
C torn and damaged
D completely destroyed
177. it’s just not your day

A you’re in a bad mood today
B you’re not well today
C you’ll forget today
D it’s your unlucky day
From the options A, B, C and D, select the answer which is closest in
meaning to the expression underlined in the conversations.
Situation: Din and Amir are having an argument.
Din : How could you have lost our tickets to the football match? You’re
really good for nothing. (a)
Amir : I know it’s my fault. I’m very sorry.
Din : By hook or by crook, (b) you have to get me another ticket.
Amir : But the tickets are all sold out! Where am I going to get you another
ticket?
Din : I don’t care. That’s your problem! (c)
178. good for nothing

A useless
B forgetful
C unreliable
D careless
179. by hook or by crook

A within a certain time
B whatever it takes
C by admitting your mistake
D the way I see it
180. That’s your problem!

A That’s how you make money.
B Let’s see how you deal with it.
C That’s not my concern.
D You have a problem.
Situation: Ali and Ravin are talking about their new classmate, Roy.
Ali : Roy is the thinnest boy in the whole class!

Ravin : Don’t laugh at him. He is as strong as an ox! (a)
Ali : How do you know that?
Ravin : I spotted him (b) lifting that big table to put it to the side.
Ali : Well, well, don’t judge a book by its cover, eh? (c)
181. as strong as an ox
A very big
B tough
C very strong
D very heavy
182. I spotted him

A I saw him
B I saw him in a spot
C I heard him
D I photographed him
183. don’t judge a book by its cover

A we won’t know a person just by his appearance
B we won’t know a book’s quality
C we won’t understand straightaway
D we will never know
Situation: Mr Choo and Mr Lim are teachers and they are looking at a school bus.
Mr Lim : Look at that. The children are packed like sardines. (a)
Mr Choo : We should make a complaint about this. We cannot let the
driver get away with it. (b)
Mr Lim : You’re right. We should bring it up (c) at the next staff meeting.
184. packed like sardines

A like fish in the sea
B like tinned food
C very neatly
D crowded tightly together
185. get away with it

A run away like that
B drive on the roads
C escape from something
D be lost in something
186. bring it up
A mention it
B think about it
C bring the bus here
D tell the driver off
Situation: Jason sees Nathan in the school hall, looking very restless.
Jason : What’s the matter with you, walking to and fro (a) like this?
Nathan : I am at a loss for words. (b) Beng is supposed to be here one hour
ago to practise for the play, but there’s no sign of him.
Jason : I am sure he has a good reason for being late. It’s unlike him to be
not punctual. (c)
187. to and fro

A up and down
B morning and night
C backwards and forwards
D in and out
188. I am at a loss for words

A I am so angry.
B You would do the same.
C I’ve lost my voice.
D I don’t know what to say.
189. It’s unlike him to be not punctual

A He is usually late.
B He is usually punctual.
C He cannot be trusted.
D You should not be like him.
Situation: Two teachers, Mr Gan and Mr Nadeson, are talking about a student.
Mr Gan : You know that lazy boy, Jack? I was asking for volunteers to
serve drinks, and quick as a wink (a) he disappeared from the
meeting!
Mr Nadeson : I heard from his mother that he is always shaking legs (b) at
home. Even she finds it hard to get him to help with anything.
Mr Gan : We must try to get him to turn up (c) to help in one of the duties
after school. We cannot be excusing him all the time.
190. quick as a wink

A very noisily
B very quickly
C very shockingly
D very sadly
191. shaking legs

A dancing
B exercising his legs
C shaking off the dust
D not doing anything
192. turn up
A come
B change
C talk to us
D clean up
Situation: Govind and Jeet are discussing where to have dinner.
Govind : Where are you going for dinner tonight? I have to look for some
food before my tuition class starts. Where can I get
a square meal (a) that’s cheap?
Jeet : I know the place. I always go there when I’m short of cash. (b)
There, I am assured of enough food for my big stomach!
Govind : All right, I’ll come along with you. I feel I can eat like a horse (c)
today.
193. a square meal

A spicy food
B cheap meal
C food on a square plate
D sufficient and satisfying food
194. I’m short of cash

A I have very little money
B I have no money
C I have only coins
D I am borrowing money
195. eat like a horse

A eat slowly
B eat in little
C eat a lot
D eat in the field
Situation: Siti is telling Irene about her aunt’s funeral.
Irene : Hey, I’m glad you are back in time for the netball match. Are you
feeling better now?
Siti : Well, it was with a heavy heart (a) that I left for my aunt’s funeral
and I am still feeling very sad. She was my favourite aunt.
Irene : Think of it this way, you were lucky to have had such a nice aunt.
Not all of us are that lucky. Count your blessings. (b)
Siti : You are right, I will still have very good memories of her. Let’s go in
now. I’m dying for a drink. (c)
196. with a heavy heart

A with a lot of memories
B with a sickly heart
C with feelings of sadness
D with great reluctance
197. Count your blessings.

A Think of all the bad memories.
B Think of all she has done for you.
C Think of all the nice people.
D Think of all the good things in your life.
198. I’m dying for a drink

A I’m very hungry.
B I’m very weak.
C I’m very thirsty.
D I’m very full.
ANSWERS
CLOSEST IN MEANING
Situation: Saljit’s mother is talking to her about a friend.
Mother : Do you remember Miss Baswant?

Saljit : I think she used to come to our house when I was small.
Mother : Yes, we got to know (a) each other when she worked in the
hair salon that I used to go to.
Saljit : She has not visited us for years.
Mother : We lost touch (b) when she went to India.
Saljit : I wonder what has become of her. (c)
Mother : She’s an actress in Bollywood now! I saw her picture in a
magazine.
1. got to know
A saw
B talked to
C liked about
D made friends with
Answer: D
2. lost touch
A had a quarrel
B stopped being friends
C lost each other’s address
D did not contact each other
Answer: D
3. what has become of her

A why she went away
B who knows about her
C when she will be back
D what has happened to her
Answer: D
Situation: Mee Chin is giving Tracy some notes.
Mee Chin : These are all the notes for this week’s lessons. I got my father to
photocopy a set for you.
Tracy : Since I broke my arm, you have been helping me with the notes.
I can’t thank you enough. (a)
Mee Chin : Don’t be silly. That’s what friends are for. (b)
Tracy : I’ll repay this favour somehow. If you ever need my help in the
future, you know you can count on (c) me.
4. I can’t thank you enough

A I won’t thank you.
B I’ll thank you later.
C Thank you so much.
D I don’t know how to thank people.
Answer: C
5. That’s what friends are for.

A I’m a friendly person.
B I want to be your friend.
C We have been friends for so long.
D That’s what friends are supposed to do.
Answer: D
6. count on
A inform
B depend on
C work with
D share with
Answer: B
Dear Brenda,
I sent a soft toy to your house yesterday. Hope you have

received it. It’s one of my favourites. So, do take care of it.
I will let you in (a) on something. Don’t tell anyone or I’ll be
a laughing stock (b). I have 500 such soft toy animals! They have cost my
parents a lot of money. I’m proud of my collection and I really
take the trouble (c) to keep them clean. If you want one for your sister,
Betty, do let me know.
Love,
Ann
7. let you in
A it is a secret
B keep a secret
C tell you a secret
D make it a secret
Answer: C
8. laughing stock
A someone who is always laughing
B someone who is treated as ridiculous
C someone who likes to crack jokes
D someone who is not taken seriously
Answer: B
9. take the trouble

A put in so much effort
B face such problems
C find a better solution
D do such a stupid thing
Answer: A
Situation: Zara and Hema are making Mother’s Day gifts.
10. at wit’s end

A forgot
B worried about
C run out of ideas
D didn’t think about
Answer: C

A born rich
B born lucky
C born clever
D born generous
Answer: A
12. can’t wait

A have no time
B am afraid
C am eager
D dislike
Answer: C
Jenny is on the phone with Carol. She is telling Carol to meet her at the market.
“Let’s meet for breakfast today. We have not got together for ages.” (a)
Carol replies, “Sounds great. Since I have nothing better to do, (b) I will meet
you. But why the market? You know that I can’t stand (c) the smell of fish and the sight
of chickens being slaughtered.”
Jenny smiles and says, “All right. We’ll meet somewhere else. How about Bern
Café?”
“That’s better. See you in an hour,” shouts Carol.
13. for ages

A recently
B regularly
C for a while
D for a long time
Answer: D
14. I have nothing better to do

A I am free
B I need a break
C I am in the mood
D I am not feeling well
Answer: A
15. can’t stand

A am not interested in
B do not understand
C find it boring to
D cannot tolerate
Answer: D
Situation: Kassim is repairing Mrs Bawanee’s refrigerator.
Kassim : There doesn’t seem to be anything wrong; yet your fridge is not
cold. I can’t figure out (a) what the problem is.
Mrs Bawanee : What are you going to do now?
Kassim : I’ll have to take it back and check all the parts. It’ll take about
two weeks.
Mrs Bawanee : I can’t do without a fridge for two weeks! I’m in two minds (b)
whether to have it repaired or to buy a new one.
Kassim : Why don’t we loan you a fridge for the time being? (c)
Mrs Bawanee : That’s very kind of you!
16. figure out

A check
B remember
C understand
D inform you
Answer: C
17. I’m in two minds

A I’m worried
B I don’t mind
C I’m undecided
D I want your advice
Answer: C
18. for the time being

A for now
B for later
C as long as you like
D any period of time
Answer: A
Situation: Peggy is complaining about the lift in their apartment block to her mother.
Peggy : Mum, do you know that the lift is out of order (a) again?
Mother: It was fine when I came back a few minutes ago. We’ll have to let the
building supervisor know so that he can see to it (b) quickly.
Peggy : I’ve already informed him.
Mother : I’m thinking of selling this apartment and buying a house. Then we won’t
have to face problems like this.
Peggy : I’m behind you all the way! (c) I’ve had enough of walking up ten flights
of steps!
19. out of order

A damaged
B very dirty
C not working
D not switched on
Answer: C
20. see to it
A settle
B replace
C improve on
D give attention to
Answer: D
21. I’m behind you all the way!

A I understand you.
B You have my fullest support.
C Do you mean what you said?
D You had better think carefully.
Answer: B
Good morning, students. The school Sports Day is tomorrow. I know many of you have
put your shoulders to the wheel. (a) To these students, I say ‘thank you.’
Always set high standards (b) in whatever you do. Work hard and you will reap the
benefits. (c) Those who put in minimum work will achieve little too. I hope you take note of my
advice and follow it. Be punctual on the sports field tomorrow.
22. put your shoulders to the wheel

A run fast
B talked a lot
C worked hard
D practised much
Answer: C
23. set high standards

A aim high
B jump high
C from a height
D pay a high price
Answer: A
24. reap the benefits

A win
B make profits
C achieve much
D score good grades
Answer: C
Situation: Kamala is teaching Norlia how to dye a skirt.
25. looking forward to

A interested in
B quite sure about
C paying attention to
D spending some time
Answer: A
26. Are you following me?

A Are you behind me?
B Do you understand?
C Can you repeat what I said?
D Are you doing what I’m doing?
Answer: B
27. keep on
A try
B stop
C start
D continue
Answer: D
Read the message below and choose the best meaning for the phrases that are underlined.
Dear Fiona,
I have to rush off, so I did not get to talk to you. Anyway, let’s go to the
ice-skating rink this evening.
I promise I will not make fun of (a) you if you fall. However, if skating is
not your cup of tea, (b) we can do something else. Do call me then and let me
know what you prefer. Anything you suggest suits me fine. (c) See you!
Kenny
28. make fun of

A laugh at
B look funny
C make me laugh
D have a lot of fun
Answer: A
29. not your cup of tea

A not nice
B not a good idea
C never done that
D not interested in that
Answer: D
30. suits me fine

A I’m feeling good
B I have no choice
C I like that
D do what you like
Answer: C
Situation: Geetha is approaching Dollah about a commotion nearby.
Geetha : Hi, Dollah! What’s up? (a)

Dollah : I just got here myself. All I know is someone has passed out. (b)
Geetha : Those people shouldn’t be crowding around. The victim needs fresh air.
Dollah : You’re a member of the Red Crescent. Why don’t you see if you can help?
Geetha : I’ll have to get through the crowd. Hello, everybody! Make way, (c)
please!
31. What’s up
A Who is over there?
B What’s happening?
C Where are you going?
D Is there something up there?
Answer: B
32. passed out

A died
B fainted
C got good results
D met with an accident
Answer: B
33. Make way

A Let me pass
B Stand far away
C Do something useful
D Let us find a way to help
Answer: A
Read the news report below and choose the best meaning for the phrases that are underlined.
Klang, Mon: An accident occurred at Jalan King this morning when a van crashed into a truck.
Both drivers were not injured. However, they blamed each for the crash.
The van driver, Ali, said, “The truck driver was too much. (a) After the crash, he wanted
to fight with me.”
Chee Keong defended himself by saying, “I did not blame him for the crash. What made
me lose my cool (b) was his behaviour. He shouted at me.”
Ali denied doing that. He merely said that Chee Keong tried to find fault with (c) him so
that he did not have to accept the blame for the accident. Meanwhile, the police are investigating
the cause of the accident.
34. too much

A unreasonable
B dishonest
C stupid
D silly
Answer: A
35. lose my cool

A become sad
B become angry
C feel worried
D feel embarrassed
Answer: B
36. find fault with

A explain to
B prove to
C frighten
D blame
Answer: D
Situation: Esther and Iqbal are comparing their exam results.
37. flying colours

A poor grades
B good results
C average marks
D very good grades
Answer: D
38. just round the corner

A very near
B announced
C being held
D over
Answer: A
39. learnt your lesson

A studied harder
B paid more attention
C realised your mistake
D concentrated on your lessons
Answer: C
Ivy and Aida are waiting at the taxi stand. They are getting very impatient.
Ivy groans, “We’ve been standing here for twenty minutes. If we don’t get a taxi soon we
won’t be on time.” (a)
Aida, the cheerful one, says, “Don’t worry so much. Let’s keep our fingers crossed (b)
that a taxi will come by soon.”
However, Ivy knows better than that. She looks at the other side of the road and
comments, “Do you notice that there are more taxis on the other side of the road? It should be
easier to get one there.”
Aida agrees, “You’ve got a point there. (c) Come on, let’s cross the road.”
40. won’t be on time

A will be late
B will arrive punctually
C will still have a little time
D won’t have much time left
Answer: A
41. keep our fingers crossed

A wave
B hope
C signal
D imagine
Answer: B
42. You’ve got a point there.

A You’re pointing in the wrong direction.
B I don’t understand your point.
C We can try your idea.
D You’re right.
Answer: D
Situation: Dhillon’s father is not happy with his results.
Father : You failed every subject! I’m lost for words. (a)
Dhillon : I’m really sorry. I know you will look down on (b) me.
Father : No, I won’t. But I just wish you would try harder or you’ll
get nowhere. (c)
Dhillon : I promise I will.
43. I’m lost for words.

A I’m so shocked.
B I don’t understand.
C I don’t know what to say.
D I’m going to give you a good scolding.
Answer: C
44. look down on

A punish
B get angry with
C be disappointed with
D have a low opinion of
Answer: D
45. get nowhere

A not be allowed out
B get into trouble
C have problems
D not progress
Answer: D
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. What I am going to say tonight concerns all of you. As the
saying goes, ‘Health is wealth.’ (a) I’m sure all of you agree with me. Health means being able
to do what we want, play games and lead an active life. We cannot compromise on our health.
(b) So, what do we do? Eat healthily and exercise regularly. To show you I practice what I
preach, (c) I will organise a badminton game tonight. Anyone interested?
46. Health is wealth

A Health sounds like wealth
B The ways to be healthy
C Health is very important
D Eat, exercise and be healthy
Answer: C
47. cannot compromise our health

A cannot overeat
B cannot exercise too much
C cannot have healthy habits
D must not neglect our health
Answer: D
48. practice what I preach

A preach to me
B preach and act
C become a preacher
D carry out what I say
Answer: D
Situation: Zaitun’s father is asking her to help him plant some seeds.
49. take advantage of

A take seriously
B make use of
C remember
D wait for
Answer: B
50. in the mood

A fit
B free
C ready
D interested in
Answer: D
51. do you good

A help you
B attract you
C benefit you
D remind you
Answer: C
Paul and his mother are in their garden. His mother is showing him how to plant papaya
seeds. Paul is amazed that papaya trees are grown by using the seeds of the fruit.
His mother explains to him, “Papaya trees grow very fast and we’ll have papayas to eat in
no time.” (a)
“That’s great. Should I cover the seeds?” asked Paul.
“Yes, you should. Well, we’re done. Today will always be close to my heart (b) because
we planted something together, son.”
Paul felt the same. He added quickly, “I’ll get the watering can. We can then call it a
day.” (c)
52. in no time
A some time in the future
B after a period of time
C immediately
D very soon
Answer: D
53. close to my heart

A a tiring day
B a fruitful day
C very painful for me
D very important to me
Answer: D
54. call it a day

A stop work for today
B continue the next day
C finish the job later today
D do some more another day
Answer: A
Situation: Meng Yew is asking Basri about a fight he had with his friend.
Meng Yew : What happened between the both of you?

Basri : He jumped down my throat (a) when I tried to help him.
Meng Yew : What did you try to do?
Basri : He’s joining a story-telling contest. He asked for my opinion but
we didn’t see eye to eye (b) on how he should tell the story.
Meng Yew : So he was angry you didn’t like the way he wanted to do it.
Basri : Yes. He told me to mind my own business (c) and soon we
started fighting.
55. jumped down my throat

A hit me
B scolded me
C blamed me
D held me by the throat
Answer: B
56. see eye to eye

A agree
B discuss
C have any idea
D meet often enough
Answer: A
57. mind my own business

A help him
B stop interfering
C apologise to him
D be careful of my manners
Answer: B
Situation: Mark was trying to convince Leong to go after the ostrich again. They were visiting an
ostrich farm and both had set their eyes on a big striking ostrich.
Mark shouted, “Let’s go after it, Leong!”

Leong shot the idea down (a) for he knew it was an impossible task. However, Mark was
sure they could catch the bird, this time around. He really wanted to see the ostrich up close.
Leong was getting fed up. (b)
Seeing the look on Leong’s face, Mark stopped insisting. Instead, he said “We’ll think of
something.” (c)
58. shot the idea down

A agreed with the idea
B suggested using a gun to shoot
C said it was a foolish idea
Answer: C
59. fed up
A tired
B angry
C bored
D impatient
Answer: C
60. We’ll think of something.

A We’ll think of an idea.
B We’ll have to think carefully.
C We’ll get more people to think.
D We must do some serious thinking.
Answer: A
Situation: Jefri and Adam are quarrelling.
Jefri : I won’t listen to you anymore. What you’re saying

doesn’t make sense. (a)
Adam : Of course, it does. You always think you’re right and I’m wrong.
Jefri : Oh, just get off my back! (b)
Adam : Suit yourself but don’t come crying to me when your world falls apart. (c)
Jefri : I won’t!
61. doesn’t make sense

A is a lie
B is not logical
C is hurting me
D doesn’t concern me
Answer: B
62. get off my back

A get out of the room
B don’t touch my back
C don’t annoy me
D stop talking
Answer: C
63. your world falls apart

A something bad happens
B you fall and hurt yourself
C your friends leave you
D your heart breaks
Answer: A

A crazy
B joking
C serious
D satisfied
Answer: A
65. gateway to a bright future

A have a good future
B predict a bright future
C means to do well in the future
D what kind of future
Answer: C
66. think before you leap

A imagine what will happen
B if you want, leap then
C think first before you leap
D consider carefully before you carry out the action
Answer: D
Situation: Siew Peng is at the library.
Siew Peng : Excuse me, I’d like to apply for membership.

Librarian : Please fill in the application form.
Siew Peng : Can I submit my application straight away? (a)
Librarian : Yes, but you can’t borrow any books yet.
Siew Peng : I beg your pardon? (b)
Librarian : You can’t borrow books yet because your application may be
turned down. (c)
67. straight away

A later
B by mail
C immediately
D when I am away
Answer: C
68. I beg your pardon?

A Can I hear you?
B Please speak louder.
C Please repeat what you said.
D Do you know what you’re saying?
Answer: C
69. turned down

A lost
B delayed
C rejected
D incomplete
Answer: C
Good morning, students. Today, we bid farewell (a) to Puan Aminah who is retiring
today. She has been a pillar of strength (b) to her students. She has advised and guided us well.
We will always remember her favourite words ‘Hard work is the key to success.’ (c) Thank you,
Puan Aminah. We wish you all the best in the years to come.
70. bid farewell

A leave now
B bring along
C say goodbye
D wave a hand
Answer: C
71. pillar of strength

A source of inspiration
B good friend
C related
D a post
Answer: A
72. Hard work is the key to success.

A Success is good for us.
B We need to use a key.
C To work hard, we must have success.
D To be successful, we have to work hard.
Answer: D
Situation: Gopal is at the youth club.
Gopal : I’d like to find out (a) more about the treasure hunt.
Secretary : You must fill in a form and pay RM10 to join.
Gopal : Kamal told me it’s free.
Secretary : He’s a member of the club but you’re not.
Gopal : Oh, I see. (b) When will the treasure hunt be held?
Secretary : We had planned it for 15 July but there’s a chance (c) the
date will be changed.
73. find out

A to talk
B to know
C to inform
D to make changes
Answer: B
74. Oh, I see

A That’s not fair.
B I understand now.
C I’m not interested then.
D I’ll then see him about this.
Answer: B
75. there’s a chance

A it’s possible
B you will be told
C there’s a request
D we have decided
Answer: A
Situation: Wahid is annoyed with Yahya.
Wahid : What do you mean by saying I’m selfish? I’ve always shared
things with you.
Yahya : I’m sorry. I didn’t know you would take it to heart. (a) I didn’t
mean it. It’s just that I was unhappy you wouldn’t let me copy
your homework.
Wahid : You know that’s not right. Let me talk some sense into (b) you.
We’ll both get into trouble if I let you copy my work. Besides,
I’ll be spoiling you, not helping you.
Yahya : I realise that. You know how I speak rubbish (c) sometimes.
76. take it to heart

A be so selfish
B take it seriously
C hear what I said
D scold me about it
Answer: B
77. talk some sense into

A talk quietly with
B help you see reason
C discuss calmly with
D express my feelings to
Answer: B
78. speak rubbish

A try to be neat
B talk nonsense
C say what I think
D make a mess of my life
Answer: B
Good morning, fellow members. First, I must start by explaining why the Hobby Club
has been so inactive lately. Yes, many of us have been under the weather (a) the last two months.
The flu virus has hit some of us. But now, we are much better. So, we should not take it too easy.
(b) I suggest that we start making plans. We can do with (c) some interesting activities such as
visits and exhibitions. Any suggestions?
79. under the weather

A not feeling very well
B do not like this weather
C the weather is so warm
D stayed in the sun too long
Answer: A
80. take it too easy

A take medicine
B solve the problem
C relax too much
D go to bed
Answer: C
81. can do with

A need
B can learn
C must practise
D know how to do
Answer: A
Situation: Kim Fong and her mother are shopping.
Kim Fong : Which lipstick colour is nicer?

Mother : Let me see. I can’t tell this from that. (a)
Kim Fong : This is slightly lighter and the colour is prettier.
Mother : You’re the one who is going to use it. To me, they’re
like two peas in a pod! (b)
Kim Fong : I’ll settle for this one. (c)
82. tell this from that

A tell them apart
B decide for you
C make up my mind
D can’t say I like this or that
Answer: A
83. like two peas in a pod

A very pretty
B like vegetables
C just like any lipstick
D exactly the same
Answer: D
84. settle for

A consider
B choose
C wear
D like
Answer: B
Situation: Fairuz is caught by a prefect for being late.
Prefect : You’re late again, Fairuz!

Fairuz : My alarm clock didn’t ring.
Prefect : You’re just cooking up (a) an excuse.
Fairuz : You prefects are only good at catching latecomers.
Perfect : You’re going too far. (b) You know you make a habit of being late.
Fairuz : I’m sorry. Please don’t punish me.
Prefect : I have to. You must learn to abide by (c) the rules.
85. cooking up
A copying
B inventing
C giving me
D believing in
Answer: B
86. going too far

A living too far away
B being unreasonable
C moving away from me
D standing not close enough
Answer: B
87. abide by
A memorise
B break
C obey
D study
Answer: C
Situation: Dennis is calling Imran on the phone.
Dennis : May I speak to Imran, please?

Imran : Speaking. You’re not calling to snap at (a) me again, are you, Dennis?
Dennis : No, I want to apologise to you about today. I was in the wrong.
Imran : Well, I’ll let bygones be bygones, (b) since you admit your mistake.
Dennis : Thanks! The problem with me is I don’t use my common sense. (c)
Imran : At least you know your weakness. Don’t worry, we’re still friends.
88. snap at
A say something loudly
B say something softly and gently
C say something quickly in an angry way
D say something clearly and loudly
Answer: D
89. let bygones be bygones

A forgive and forget
B forgive but cannot forget
C remember the past
Answer: A
90. use my common sense

A listen
B have a brain
C think logically
D do anything right
Answer: C
Situation: Kamal and Azizah have just been made prefects.
Kamal : You look quite stern in your prefect’s uniform.

Azizah : Don’t you poke fun at me! (a)
Kamal : That’s supposed to be a compliment. You look different from your
usual timid self and that helps when you need to discipline the students.
Azizah : I don’t know. There’s a chance (b) nobody will listen to me.
Kamal : You’ve been given the opportunity to lead and you must take up (c)
the challenge.
Azizah : I know. I’ll do my best.
91. poke fun at

A joke with
B laugh at
C lie to
D scold
Answer: B
92. There’s a chance

A I’m sure
B Hopefully
C It’s unlikely
D It’s possible
Answer: D
93. take up
A accept
B try
C join
D fight.
Answer: A
Situation: The hockey coach has appointed Amran as the captain of the team.
Coach : How do you feel about being made captain?

Amran : On top of the world! (a) It’s a real honour.
Coach : You’ll be assisting me quite a bit.
Amran : I hope I can carry out (b) my responsibilities well.
Coach : I don’t foresee any problems. After all, you get along with (c)
everyone in the team.
94. On top of the world

A I’m a little surprised.
B Wonderful
C Proud!
D All right, I guess.
Answer: B
95. carry out

A finish
B learn
C make
D perform
Answer: D
96. get along with

A go out with
B guide
C care for
D have a good relationship with
Answer: D
Situation: Ee Vian is asking her teacher for advice.
97. I’m at a loss

A I don’t know
B I forgot
C Help me
D Advise me
Answer: A
98. make it
A like it
B succeed
C have time
D practise
Answer: B
99. heart-to-heart
A long
B frank
C careful
D interesting
Answer: B
Situation: Lina is telling her mother about a taking up a part-time job.

A creative
B sure
C crazy
D stupid
Answer: C
101. spinning
A singing
B learning
C enjoying
D playing
Answer: D
102. blow his top

A get very angry
B advise you
C be unhappy
D discourage you
Answer: A
Situation: Mr and Mrs Vincent are in their garden.
Mrs Vincent : I’m so fed up of (a) looking at that mountain of rubbish across
the road.
Mr Vincent : It’s really an eyesore. (b)
Mrs Vincent : All our complaints to the authorities seem to
have fallen on deaf ears. (c)
103. fed up of
A worried about
B tired of
C afraid of
D angry at
Answer: B
104. an eyesore
A bad for the eyes
B an ugly sight
C dangerous for the eyes
D likely to cause eye diseases
Answer: B
105. have fallen on deaf ears

A have gone to the wrong people
B have been misunderstood
C have been ignored
D have worsened the situation
Answer: C
Situation: Nora and her mother are going to the market when they witness an accident.
Nora : Oh, my goodness! That van knocked down a man.

Mother : Don’t look, Nora. You know you can’t stand (a) the sight of blood.
Nora : Let’s get out of here right away. (b) I hope I won’t dream about this
tonight.
Mother : Just put it behind you (c) and you will be all right.
106. can’t stand

A can’t bear
B worry about
C feel bad at
D avoid
Answer: A
107. right away

A and turn right
B and go far away
C as soon as we can
D immediately
Answer: D
108. put it behind you

A don’t look behind you
B forget about it
C close your eyes
D walk behind me
Answer: B
Situation: Siew Peng and Devi are discussing a trip to Genting Highlands.
Siew Peng : I’d like to bring along my little sister. She has not been feeling
well lately and the fresh air will do her good. (a)
Devi : All right. She won’t feel out of place (b) because my niece is
coming, too. She can keep your sister company.
Siew Peng : We have to buy more food since there are two extra persons
coming on the trip.
Devi : We’ll split the bill. (c) Let’s talk about the transportation.
109. do her good

A heal her
B benefit her
C cool her down
D interest her
Answer: B
110. out of place

A left out
B scared
C bored
D unhappy
Answer: A
111. split the bill

A make a list
B pay for them
C bring our own things
D share the expenses
Answer: D
Situation: Kumar and Mark are at the viewing deck, at the top of the Kuala Lumpur Tower.
Kumar : I have never been so high up a building before.

I can’t believe the view. (a)
Mark : I’ve been told one can even see the Straits of Melaka. How come
I can’t spot it? (b)
Kumar : It’s too misty and cloudy.
Mark : Oh, I see! (c)
112. I can’t believe the view

A The view is incredible.
B I don’t believe the building is so high.
C There’s nothing impressive about the view.
D I think I’m dreaming.
Answer: A
113. spot it
A see spots
B see it
C see spots in it
D there is a spot on the window
Answer: B
114. Oh, I see!

A I know.
B I’ll try harder.
C I can see it now!
D I understand now.
Answer: D
Situation: It is drizzling and Mr and Mrs Chan are at a bus stop.
Mr Chan : The roof is leaking! I’m getting all wet.

Mrs Chan : This bus stop is in a sorry state. (a)
Mr Chan : You can say that again! (b) Waiting here is not any different
than standing in the open.
Mrs Chan : Let’s run over to that building. Come on, (c) the rain’s getting
heavier.
115. a sorry state

A bad shape
B a poor location
C an uncompleted condition
D need of more space
Answer: A
116. You can say that again

A What did you say?
B I totally agree with you!
C Please speak louder.
D I don’t understand.
Answer: B
117. Come on
A Are you coming?
B Let us go
C Hurry up
D Be careful
Answer: C
Situation: Mano and Halim are staying in a resthouse.
Mano : This place is really old. This is the first time I’m staying in a wooden
building.
Halim : Places like this give me the creeps. (a) They make me think of ghosts
and stuff like that.
Mano : Don’t talk rubbish! (b)
Halim : I really think I can hear some weird sounds.
Mano : Your imagination is running wild. (c) I’m going to bed.
118. give me the creeps

A remind me of home
B help me to relax
C make me scared
D bring back memories
Answer: C
119. Don’t talk rubbish!

A You’re too talkative!
B That’s not true!
C You’ve got bad breath.
D Stop saying foolish things!
Answer: D
120. Your imagination is running wild.

A You’ve got an over-active mind.
B You’re not thinking.
C You are going crazy.
D You’re too tired.
Answer: A
Situation: Bee Ling is telling Pam about how she caught her flight.
Bee Ling : We nearly missed the flight! We were caught in a traffic jam but
luckily we got there just in the nick of time.(a)
Pam : You must have run all the way to the aeroplane.
Bee Ling : That was exactly what we did. I had barely caught my breath
when the plane took off. (b)
Pam : How long was the flight?
Bee Ling : About three hours. I was so tired I slept all the way until the
plane touched down. (c)
121. in the nick of time

A a little early
B a little late
C just in time
D time to spare
Answer: C
122. took off

A moved
B started
C flew
D switched on
Answer: C
123. touched down

A moved slowly
B stopped
C landed
D switched off
Answer: C
Situation: Wong is buying an air ticket from a ticketing clerk.
Clerk : You must check in (a) at the MAS counter an hour before your flight.
Wong : I normally check in earlier to get a good seat. I also like to
take my time (b) to walk around the duty-free shops.
Clerk : I can see that you’re a seasoned traveller. (c)
Wong : You’re right.
124. check in
A arrive
B find
C report
D register
Answer: D
125. take my time

A quickly
B slowly
C spend time
D wate some time to
Answer: B
126. seasoned traveller

A a wise tourist
B a careful passenger
C an experienced traveler
D a person who travels every season
Answer: C
Situation: Mr Lim has some good news for his wife.
Mr Lim : You’re not going to believe this! I’ve been nominated for the
Best Salesman of the Year! We could win a trip for our family
to Australia.
Mrs Lim : What? Stop kidding. (a)
Mr Lim : It’s true! This is really something out of the blue. (b)
Mrs Lim : Let’s tell the children. They’ll be over the moon. (c)
127. Stop kidding

A Stop being so childish.
B You’re dreaming!
C I don’t believe it.
D Do you believe that?
Answer: C
128. out of the blue

A unexpected
B incredible
C wonderful
D interesting
Answer: A
129. over the moon

A overjoyed
B thankful
C satisfied
D shocked
Answer: A
Situation: Gopal and his father are getting ready to attend the Thaipusam celebrations.
Gopal : I want to carry a kavadi, too.

Father : That’s out of the question. (a) You must fast and prepare yourself first.
Maybe you can carry one next year.
Gopal : You’re always putting it off. (b) You said the same thing last year.
Fahter : Don’t forget that you’ve just recovered from chickenpox. You’re much
too weak now.
Gopal : It’s just too bad, (c) I guess.
130. out of the question

A not a question
B not allowed
C impossible
D too late
Answer: B
131. putting if off

A discouraging me
B postponing it
C spoiling it
D making me wait
Answer: B
132. too bad

A difficult
B unwise
C dangerous
D unfortunate
Answer: D
Situation: Guat Nee and Farah are talking on the telephone.
Guat Nee : Do you have anything lined up (a) for tomorrow?

Farah : What have you got in mind? (b)
Guat Nee : You said you were interested in going to the museum. Well,
my parents are bringing me there tomorrow. Would you like
to come along? (c)
133. lined up
A to line up
B arranged
C meetings
D free time
Answer: B
134. What have you got in mind?

A I don’t mind telling you.
B Have you got some problems?
C What ideas do you have?
D Why don’t you guess?
Answer: C
135. come along

A come to ny house
B meet us there
C go with us
D go by yourself
Answer: C
Situation: Dinesh is telling his father about his intended trip to the zoo.
Dinesh : I’m going to the zoo with some friends tomorrow.

Father : With your examination coming up, (a) I would rather you didn’t.
Dinesh : It’ll only be for half a day. Give me a break, (b) Dad.
Father : All right. I know how fascinated you are with animals.
Dinesh : Thanks! I’ll have a whale of a time! (c)
136. coming up
A approaching
B so long away
C taking place
D just over
Answer: A
137. Give me a break

A Do me a favour
B It’s not my fault
C Give me permission
D Let me have a rest
Answer: D
138. a whale of a time

A fun watching a whale
B an enjoyable time
C lots of free time
D some time to relax
Answer: B
Situation: Gina’s father is explaining to her the procedure of applying for a driving licence.
Father : The first thing you should do is to enrol yourself in a driving school.
Gina : There’s one next to the market but I’ve heard it charges a very high fee.
Father : I’ll find you a reputable one. I don’t you to be taken for a ride. (a)
Gina : Do I get to learn how to drive immediately?
Father : No, only after learning the road signs. You must pay heed to (b) that
because you will have to sit for a computerised test in addition to the
road test.
Gina : I’m so nervous. You know I’ve got butter fingers. (c) What if I engage
the wrong gear?
139. taken for a ride

A driven by somebody
B cheated
C in a hurry
D taken to far places
Answer: B
140. pay heed to

A spend extra money on
B work hard on
C memorise all
D pay full attention to
Answer: D
141. I’ve got butter fingers

A I have soft hands
B My fingers are weak
C I’m clumsy
D I am timid
Answer: C
Situation: Mohan and Paul are visiting a printing factory.
Mohan : The noise here is deafening.

Paul : What do you expect with so many printing presses running at the
same time?
Mohan : I wonder how the workers put up with it. (a)
Paul : I suppose they’re used to it. It’s beginning to get on my nerves. (b)
Mohan : What bothers me is the smell of ink.
Paul : I guess we’re both not cut out for (c) the printing line.
142. put up with it

A listen to
B forget about
C tolerate
D control
Answer: C
143. get on my nerves

A irritate me
B make me sick
C frighten me
D disturb me
Answer: A
144. cut out for

A qualified for
B suited for
C prepared fro
D experienced in
Answer: B
Situation: Heng and Johan are drawing charts.
Heng : You’re going to great lengths (a) drawing the pie chart.
Johan : If I don’t use a compass, I can’t draw a perfect circle. You can do
better than that, Heng. Your bar chart is untidy.
Heng : I can’t be bothered. (b) It’s just homework and not a test.
Johan : Shame on you (c) for saying that!
145. going to great lengths

A doing things the long way
B using too long lines
C having a wonderful time
D putting in a lot of hard work
Answer: D
146. I can’t be bothered

A Why are you so interested?
B What does it matter to you?
C I don’t care about it.
D I’m not good at it.
Answer: C
147. Shame on you

A You ought to be ashamed
B I’m ashamed of you
C What a pity
D Don’t feel ashamed
Answer: A
Situation: Eileen and Julia are interpreting a chart.
Eileen : It beats me (a) why boys spend so much time playing video games.
Julia : They’ve got nothing else better to do, (b) I guess.
Eileen : Girls prefer chatting with friends. I suppose that makes us more talkative.
Julia : Without a doubt! (c)
148. It beats me
A I can’t understand
B I’m surprised
C It frightens me
D I’ve never thought
Answer: A
149. They’ve got nothing else better to do

A They’re useless people
B They’re too free
C They’re very playful
D They haven’t any hobbies
Answer: B
150. Without a doubt!

A Definitely
B Maybe.
C I don’t think so.
D You may be right.
Answer: A
Situation: Fauzi is telling Ganesh about his job interview.
Fauzi : I created such a bad impression that I’m sure I won’t get the job.
Ganesh : Don’t feel so bad.
Fauzi : It’s easy for you to say that. Unlike you, I was not
born with a silver spoon in my mouth. (a)
Ganesh : There’s still a ray of hope (b) until your application is rejected.
Fauzi : I guess I’ll have to stick to being a bus driver for now. It’s a tough job
but beggars can’t be choosers. (c)

A born to work in a restaurant
B born to have a good life
C born into a rich family
D born with a lot of luck
Answer: C
152. a ray of hope

A plenty of hope
B a way
C time
D a slim chance
Answer: D
153. beggars can’t be choosers

A I’m just a beggar
B I have no choice
C I won’t beg
D It’s better than being a beggar
Answer: B
Situation: Kim is talking about a job interview with her mother.
Kim : I’m so nervous, Mum. I’m at my wit’s end (a) over what to wear.
Mother : A simple skirt and blouse will be suitable.
Kim : I’m not confident about my chances. They probably want somebody
experienced with good academic qualifications. I may
fall short of the mark.(b)
Mother: Just give it a try. I heard that the company pays quite well.
Kim : I’m not asking for the stars. (c) I’ll be contented with a very low salary.
154. at my wit’s end

A not witty
B do not have a witty idea
C have no more ideas to play with
D so worried because I have run out of ideas
Answer: B
155. fall short of the mark

A slip and fall
B be too short
C not have enough marks
D not be up to the standard
Answer: D
156. asking for the stars.

A expecting any salary
B wanting to be a star
C asking for something unreasonable
D asking how much salary to ask for
Answer: C
Situation: Peggy and Indra have just finished watching a movie.
Peggy : Wasn’t it wonderful the way the two girls remained friends
through thick and thin? (a)
Indra : If only that happens more often in real life. Finding a true friend
nowadays is like looking for a needle in a haystack. (b)
Peggy : We would be a laughing stock (c) if we made the sacrifices the girls
make for each other.
Indra : You’re right. People would say we’re crazy. Our society is less caring
nowadays.
157. through thick and thin

A all their lives
B without fighting
C whether they were poor or rich
D in spite of all kinds of difficulties
Answer: D
158. like looking for a needle in a haystack

A harder than sewing
B almost impossible
C quite common
D not popular
Answer: B
159. laughing stock

A foolish people
B laughing people
C funny people
D an example for people
Answer: A
Situation: Gopal is being scolded by his father.
Father : Stop mixing with that group of gangsters! We don’t need a

black sheep (a) in the family.
Gopal : I won’t be influenced by them.
Father : Before you know it, you will have picked up their bad ways!
You’re playing with fire. (b)
Gopal : You don’t trust me!
Father : It’s they I do not trust. They’re so cunning that you’ll be
led by the nose (c) before you realise what is happening.
160. black sheep

A stupid person
B troublesome person
C person with bad luck
D a person who brings disgrace
Answer: D
161. You’re playing with fire

A You’re doing something dangerous.
B You’re wasting your time.
C You’ll burn yourself.
D You’re so childish!
Answer: A
162. led by the nose

A punched in the nose
B leading the gang
C following blindly
D beaten or killed
Answer: C
Situation: Siti is telling Niza about a letter from their old classmate.
Siti : Something terrible has happened to Yati. She says I can tell you about
it but you must keep it to yourself. (a)
Niza : I will. I give you my word. (b)
Siti : Her parents are seeking a divorce.
Niza : Oh, poor Yati! She loves her parents so much. Her world must be all
topsy-turvy (c) now.
Siti : Yes. The worst thing is she has to choose the parent she wants to live
with.
163. keep it to yourself

A store it somewhere
B discuss it with me only
C not tell anyone the secret
D not ask her any questions
Answer: C
164. I give you my word

A I promise.
B I will write it down.
C I can do it.
D I’ll tell you my secret.
Answer: A
165. topsy-turvy
A sad mood
B bad temper
C confused state
D dangerous situation
Answer: C
Situation: Dennis and Nor are looking at a notice about job vacancies.
Nor : Let’s try this company. They have so many vacancies that I’m sure
there will be something suitable for us.
Dennis : Most of the jobs are for girls but we can apply to be handymen. That
means doing small repairs and odd jobs.
Nor : Forget about it then. Unlike you, I’m not a Jack of all trades. (a)
Dennis : It will be simple work. You’re not chickening out, (b) are you?
Nor : Far from it. (c) If you think you can handle it, so can I!
166. a Jack of all trades

A good at trading
B a smart boy
C used to doing many jobs at one time
D a person who knows a bit of everything
Answer: D
167. chickening out

A being fussy about something
B complaining about the chicken
C getting worried for the chicken
D changing your mind because of fear
Answer: D
168. Far from it

A Not at all.
B Maybe.
C I don’t know
D The place of work is too far
Answer: A
Situation: Haliza and Li Li are looking through an entertainment magazine.
Haliza : This is interesting. Do you remember Shirley Baker?

Li Li : She acted in many movies before she got married.
Haliza : Well, she is making a comeback. (a)
Li Li : I don’t like her. She’s pretty but her dressing is always so
out of date. (b)
Haliza : But she’s a good actress. I think she’s out of this world. (c)
169. making a comeback

A coming back here
B going back to acting
C turning her back on acting
D making a lot money
Answer: B
170. out of date

A ugly
B plain
C untidy
D old-fashioned
Answer: D
171. out of this world

A strange
B famous
C wonderful
D mysterious
Answer: C
Situation: Dave has spilt ink on his homework.
Dave : Oh, no! Look what I’ve done!

Mother: Can you soak it up with a tissue?
Dave : No, it’s useless. I spent two hours writing the essay. All my effort
has gone down the drain. (a)
Mother: What a pity, son. When do you have to hand in (b) your homework?
Dave : Tomorrow. I guess I’ll have to burn the midnight oil (c) now.
172. has gone down the drain

A has been wasted
B is not enough
C has gone wrong
D cannot be measured
Answer: A
173. hand in
A do
B finish
C submit
D correct
Answer: C
174. burn the midnight oil

A sleep at midnight
B work late
C try harder
D light the lamp
Answer: B
Situation: Kit is comforting Nasir who accidentally burnt his photograph album.
Kit : I know the album meant a lot to you but try not to feel so bad.
Nasir : I can kick myself. (a) I forgot I had kept the album in the box of
old papers.
Kit : I don’t understand why you burnt the papers instead of dumping them.
Open burning is an offence.
Nasir : I didn’t know that. If I had, my album wouldn’t be
reduced to ashes now. (b)
Kit : I guess it’s just not your day. (c)
175. I can kick myself

A I hurt myself.
B I blame myself.
C I’m really clumsy.
D I’m so angry with myself.
Answer: D
176. reduced to ashes

A so dirty
B misplaced
C torn and damaged
D completely destroyed
Answer: D
177. it’s just not your day

A you’re in a bad mood today
B you’re not well today
C you’ll forget today
D it’s your unlucky day
Answer: D
Situation: Din and Amir are having an argument.
Din : How could you have lost our tickets to the football match? You’re
really good for nothing. (a)
Amir : I know it’s my fault. I’m very sorry.
Din : By hook or by crook, (b) you have to get me another ticket.
Amir : But the tickets are all sold out! Where am I going to get you another
ticket?
Din : I don’t care. That’s your problem! (c)
178. good for nothing

A useless
B forgetful
C unreliable
D careless
Answer: A
179. by hook or by crook

A within a certain time
B whatever it takes
C by admitting your mistake
D the way I see it
Answer: B
180. That’s your problem!

A That’s how you make money.
B Let’s see how you deal with it.
C That’s not my concern.
D You have a problem.
Answer: C
Situation: Ali and Ravin are talking about their new classmate, Roy.
Ali : Roy is the thinnest boy in the whole class!

Ravin : Don’t laugh at him. He is as strong as an ox! (a)
Ali : How do you know that?
Ravin : I spotted him (b) lifting that big table to put it to the side.
Ali : Well, well, don’t judge a book by its cover, eh? (c)
181. as strong as an ox
A very big
B tough
C very strong
D very heavy
Answer: C
182. I spotted him

A I saw him
B I saw him in a spot
C I heard him
D I photographed him
Answer: A
183. don’t judge a book by its cover

A we won’t know a person just by his appearance
B we won’t know a book’s quality
C we won’t understand straightaway
D we will never know
Answer: A
Situation: Mr Choo and Mr Lim are teachers and they are looking at a school bus.
Mr Lim : Look at that. The children are packed like sardines. (a)
Mr Choo : We should make a complaint about this. We cannot let the
driver get away with it. (b)
Mr Lim : You’re right. We should bring it up (c) at the next staff meeting.
184. packed like sardines

A like fish in the sea
B like tinned food
C very neatly
D crowded tightly together
Answer: D
185. get away with it

A run away like that
B drive on the roads
C escape from something
D be lost in something
Answer: C
186. bring it up
A mention it
B think about it
C bring the bus here
D tell the driver off
Answer: A
Situation: Jason sees Nathan in the school hall, looking very restless.
Jason : What’s the matter with you, walking to and fro (a) like this?
Nathan : I am at a loss for words. (b) Beng is supposed to be here one hour
ago to practise for the play, but there’s no sign of him.
Jason : I am sure he has a good reason for being late. It’s unlike him to be
not punctual. (c)
187. to and fro

A up and down
B morning and night
C backwards and forwards
D in and out
Answer: C
188. I am at a loss for words

A I am so angry.
B You would do the same.
C I’ve lost my voice.
D I don’t know what to say.
Answer: D
189. It’s unlike him to be not punctual

A He is usually late.
B He is usually punctual.
C He cannot be trusted.
D You should not be like him.
Answer: B
Situation: Two teachers, Mr Gan and Mr Nadeson, are talking about a student.
Mr Gan : You know that lazy boy, Jack? I was asking for volunteers to
serve drinks, and quick as a wink (a) he disappeared from the
meeting!
Mr Nadeson : I heard from his mother that he is always shaking legs (b) at
home. Even she finds it hard to get him to help with anything.
Mr Gan : We must try to get him to turn up (c) to help in one of the duties
after school. We cannot be excusing him all the time.
190. quick as a wink

A very noisily
B very quickly
C very shockingly
D very sadly
Answer: B
191. shaking legs

A dancing
B exercising his legs
C shaking off the dust
D not doing anything
Answer: D
192. turn up
A come
B change
C talk to us
D clean up
Answer: A
Situation: Govind and Jeet are discussing where to have dinner.
Govind : Where are you going for dinner tonight? I have to look for some
food before my tuition class starts. Where can I get
a square meal (a) that’s cheap?
Jeet : I know the place. I always go there when I’m short of cash. (b)
There, I am assured of enough food for my big stomach!
Govind : All right, I’ll come along with you. I feel I can eat like a horse (c)
today.
193. a square meal

A spicy food
B cheap meal
C food on a square plate
D sufficient and satisfying food
Answer: D
194. I’m short of cash

A I have very little money
B I have no money
C I have only coins
D I am borrowing money
Answer: A
195. eat like a horse

A eat slowly
B eat in little
C eat a lot
D eat in the field
Answer: C
Situation: Siti is telling Irene about her aunt’s funeral.
Irene : Hey, I’m glad you are back in time for the netball match. Are you
feeling better now?
Siti : Well, it was with a heavy heart (a) that I left for my aunt’s funeral
and I am still feeling very sad. She was my favourite aunt.
Irene : Think of it this way, you were lucky to have had such a nice aunt.
Not all of us are that lucky. Count your blessings. (b)
Siti : You are right, I will still have very good memories of her. Let’s go in
now. I’m dying for a drink. (c)
196. with a heavy heart

A with a lot of memories
B with a sickly heart
C with feelings of sadness
D with great reluctance
Answer: C
197. Count your blessings.

A Think of all the bad memories.
B Think of all she has done for you.
C Think of all the nice people.
D Think of all the good things in your life.
Answer: D
198. I’m dying for a drink

A I’m very hungry.
B I’m very weak.
C I’m very thirsty.
D I’m very full.
Answer: C

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CLOSEST IN MEANING

Situation: Saljit’s mother is talking to her about a friend.

Mother : Do you remember Miss Baswant?

3. what has become of her

Situation: Mee Chin is giving Tracy some notes.

4. I can’t thank you enough

5. That’s what friends are for.

I sent a soft toy to your house yesterday. Hope you have

9. take the trouble

Situation: Zara and Hema are making Mother’s Day gifts.

10. at wit’s end

11. born with a silver spoon in my mouth

12. can’t wait

13. for ages

14. I have nothing better to do

15. can’t stand

Situation: Kassim is repairing Mrs Bawanee’s refrigerator.

16. figure out

17. I’m in two minds

18. for the time being

19. out of order

21. I’m behind you all the way!

22. put your shoulders to the wheel

23. set high standards

24. reap the benefits

Situation: Kamala is teaching Norlia how to dye a skirt.

25. looking forward to

26. Are you following me?

28. make fun of

29. not your cup of tea

30. suits me fine

Situation: Geetha is approaching Dollah about a commotion nearby.

Geetha : Hi, Dollah! What’s up? (a)

32. passed out

33. Make way

34. too much

35. lose my cool

36. find fault with

Situation: Esther and Iqbal are comparing their exam results.

37. flying colours

38. just round the corner

39. learnt your lesson

40. won’t be on time

41. keep our fingers crossed

42. You’ve got a point there.

Situation: Dhillon’s father is not happy with his results.

43. I’m lost for words.

44. look down on

45. get nowhere

46. Health is wealth

47. cannot compromise our health

48. practice what I preach

49. take advantage of

50. in the mood

51. do you good

53. close to my heart

54. call it a day