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TTP Idioms Guide
TTP Idioms Guide
1. Able to
Construction: Correct:
able to + base verb John was able to see the fireworks from his rooftop.
Incorrect:
John was able for seeing the fireworks from his rooftop.
2. Ability to
Construction: Correct:
ability to + base verb Ants have the ability to lift anywhere from 20 to 100 times their
weight.
Incorrect:
Ants have the ability for lifting anywhere from 20 to 100 times
their weight.
3. Accede to
Construction: Correct:
accede to + noun The community board acceded to Polly’s request to have the
dumpster removed from in front of her house.
Incorrect:
4. Access to
Construction: Correct:
access to + noun The police needed a warrant in order to gain access to the
suspect’s house.
Incorrect:
5. Acclaimed as
Construction: Correct:
Incorrect:
6. Accompanied by
Construction: Correct:
accompanied by + noun Even though they weren’t frightened, the kids had to be
accompanied by a parent when they went to see the horror
movie.
Incorrect:
7. According to
Construction: Correct:
according to + noun The group was arranged in the photo according to height.
Incorrect:
8. Account for
Construction: Correct:
account for + noun He couldn’t account for his whereabouts on the night of the
murder and was held in police custody until his lawyer arrived.
explanation for” or “represent.” He couldn’t account to his whereabouts on the night of the
murder and was held in police custody until his lawyer arrived.
murder and was held in police custody until his lawyer arrived.
murder and was held in police custody until his lawyer arrived.
9. On account of
Construction: Correct:
on account of + noun The bank foreclosed on the home on account of the owner’s
upside-down mortgage.
other options.
The bank foreclosed on the home on accounting of the owner’s
upside-down mortgage.
10. Accuse of
Construction: Correct:
accuse X of Y;
Dora was accused of petty theft, but the prosecutor accused
Incorrect:
Note: “Accused of ” is often Dora was accused for petty theft, but the prosecutor accused
of being a thief, accused of Dora was accused with petty theft, but the prosecutor accused
Construction: Correct:
Incorrect:
Note: The verb entrust can also
take this construction. She joined her new coworkers for happy hour in the hopes of
the project.
She joined her new coworkers for happy hour in the hopes of
She joined her new coworkers for happy hour in the hopes of
12. Acquiesce to
Construction: Correct:
acquiesce to + noun/gerund After the workers went on strike, the company acquiesced to
their demands.
Incorrect:
demands.
their demands.
their demands.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
13. Adapt to
Construction: Correct:
adapt to + noun/gerund;
When their daughters went off to college, the couple had a
difficult time adapting to life without children in the house.
adapt X to Y
Incorrect:
Note: Means “adjust to.” When their daughters went off to college, the couple had a
difficult time adapting into life without children in the house.
Construction: Correct:
adapted for + noun/gerund The curriculum was adapted for students who spoke English as
a second language.
15. Affected by
Construction: Correct:
affected by + noun
He was deeply affected by the combat scenes in the film and
had to leave the theater.
Incorrect:
He was deeply affected from the combat scenes in the film and
had to leave the theater.
Construction: Correct:
afflicted with/by + noun She was afflicted with a disease so rare that few healers had
She was afflicted by a disease so rare that few healers had ever
heard of it.
Incorrect:
She was afflicted of a disease so rare that few healers had ever
heard of it.
She was afflicted from a disease so rare that few healers had
17. Afraid of
Construction: Correct:
afraid of + noun/gerund The little boy was afraid of the dark, so his parents bought a
Incorrect:
The little boy was afraid about the dark, so his parents bought a
The little boy was afraid over the dark, so his parents bought a
The little boy was afraid from the dark, so his parents bought a
18. Agree to
Construction: Correct:
Incorrect:
Construction: Correct:
agree/disagree with + Even if you don’t agree with his opinions, you can still respect
Incorrect:
Note: Other verbs that take this Even if you don’t agree over his opinions, you can still respect
construction are: collaborate, them and try to collaborate together with him.
comply, sympathize.
Even if you don’t agree in his opinions, you can still respect
20. Aid in
Construction: Correct:
aid in + noun/gerund;
The tutor aided the student in preparing for the test.
aid X in Y
Incorrect:
aid in an activity.
The tutor aided the student of preparing for the test.
21. Allocate to
Construction: Correct:
Incorrect:
Construction: Correct:
allow X for Y;
A one-hour meeting doesn’t allow sufficient time for the board
Incorrect:
Note: Allow X for Y means to
allocate an amount; allow for X A one-hour meeting doesn’t allow sufficient time to the board
means to take into to discuss this quarter’s agenda, so we should allow more time
23. Allow to
Construction: Correct:
allow X to Y;
Gina’s parents didn’t allow her to go out on Saturday night, but
Incorrect:
Note: Similar verbs that take Gina’s parents didn’t allow on her going out on Saturday night,
24. Alternative to
Construction: Correct:
Incorrect:
service.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
25. Amount to
Construction: Correct:
conjugated.
The negotiations never amounted in a vote because the
26. Analogous to
Construction: Correct:
analogous to + noun/gerund The pretentious artist claimed that creating the sculpture was
Incorrect:
Construction: Correct:
analogy to/with + noun/gerund The teacher explained the complex hierarchy of the royal court
28. Angry at
Construction: Correct:
angry at + [person/entity] Lorna was angry at her neighbors because they were late to
Incorrect:
Lorna was angry over her neighbors because they were late to
Construction: Correct:
angry about +
The teachers were angry about the ongoing lack of support
Incorrect:
30. Appeal to
Construction: Correct:
appeal to + [person/entity] The combination of chicken and waffles didn’t appeal to him, so
Incorrect:
31. Appear to
Construction: Correct:
appear to + base verb On the surface, Sam appeared to have it all together, but inside
decide, seem.
inside he was panicked and dismayed.
32. Approved/disapprove of
Construction: Correct:
approve/disapprove of +
Lisa’s parents strongly disapproved of her decision to take a
Incorrect:
Construction: Correct:
apply for + noun Today is the last day to apply for the job.
Incorrect:
Construction: Correct:
argue for/against + noun/gerund Martin Luther King, Jr., argued for equality in American society.
American society.
Note: Another verb that takes
this construction is fight.
Incorrect:
society.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
The co-op board members argued at each other vociferously,
but they always reached an amicable compromise by the end of
their meetings.
The co-op board members argued to each other vociferously,
but they always reached an amicable compromise by the end of
their meetings.
36. As ... as
Construction: Correct:
as X as Y
Television streaming services are not as popular nationally as
cable services, although their market share is rapidly growing.
37. As of
Construction: Correct:
as of + [time/date] Jackson will begin his tenure as interim director as of next
Monday.
Incorrect:
Jackson will begin his tenure as interim director for next
Monday.
Jackson will begin his tenure as interim director as on next
Monday.
Jackson will begin his tenure as interim director as to next
Monday.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
38. Ask of
Construction: Correct:
ask of + noun;
All I ask of a movie is that it make me laugh.
ask X of/for Y
Incorrect:
All I ask from a movie is that it make me laugh.
Note: “Ask of” means “demand
from.” All I ask to a movie is that it make me laugh.
Incorrect:
Note: Introduces an uncertainty. The English professor asked the class if they preferred Updike
Other verbs that pair with or Cheever.
“whether” to introduce
uncertainties include the The English professor asked the class regarding whether they
following: depend on; preferred Updike or Cheever.
determine; dispute; question;
The English professor asked the class about whether they
wonder.
preferred Updike or Cheever.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
The press associated his contentious divorce along with his
subsequent decision to retire from the NFL, but the two events
were unrelated.
The press associated his contentious divorce to his
subsequent decision to retire from the NFL, but the two events
were unrelated.
Incorrect:
The mother assured her son of the loud noise’s being just a car
backfiring.
The mother assured to her son that the loud noise was just a
car backfiring.
43. Attend to
Construction: Correct:
attend to + noun Alice had to leave work early to attend to a family crisis.
44. Attended by
Construction: Correct:
attended by + noun The wedding will be attended by prominent politicians and
Hollywood celebrities alike.
Incorrect:
The wedding will be attended of prominent politicians and
Hollywood celebrities alike.
The wedding will be attended with prominent politicians and
Hollywood celebrities alike.
45. Attest to
Construction: Correct:
attest to + noun/gerund The psychiatrist attested to the defendant’s fitness to stand
trial.
46. Attribute to
Construction: Correct:
attribute X to Y;
Gregory attributed his father’s death to negligent hospital care
attribute to + noun/gerund and planned to sue.
Incorrect:
Gregory attributed his father’s death from negligent hospital
care and planned to sue.
Gregory attributed his father’s death as negligent hospital care
and planned to sue.
Gregory attributed his father’s death as a result of negligent
hospital care and planned to sue.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
47. Averse to
Construction: Correct:
averse to + noun/gerund Surprisingly, the school board is not averse to radical changes
to the curriculum.
Incorrect:
Surprisingly, the school board is not averse about radical
changes to the curriculum.
Surprisingly, the school board is not averse as to radical
changes to the curriculum.
Surprisingly, the school board is not aversed to radical changes
to the curriculum.
48. Based on
Construction: Correct:
based on + noun Based on the experiences of five scientists, the book provides
a rare glimpse of the challenges a leading researcher can face.
Incorrect:
Based from the experiences of five scientists, the book
provides a rare glimpse of the challenges a leading researcher
can face.
Based about the experiences of five scientists, the book
provides a rare glimpse of the challenges a leading researcher
can face.
Based onto the experiences of five scientists, the book
provides a rare glimpse of the challenges a leading researcher
can face.
49. Because of
Construction: Correct:
because of + noun/gerund
We couldn’t play soccer outdoors because of the rain, so we
moved the game inside.
50. Belief/believe in
Construction: Correct:
belief/believe in + noun Her belief in ghosts made spending the night in such an old
house a scary prospect for her, but the other guests did not
believe in ghosts.
Incorrect:
Her belief of ghosts made spending the night in such an old
house a scary prospect for her, but the other guests did not
believe of ghosts.
Her belief on ghosts made spending the night in such an old
house a scary prospect for her, but the other guests did not
believe on ghosts.
Her belief as to ghosts made spending the night in such an old
house a scary prospect for her, but the other guests did not
believe regarding ghosts.
Incorrect:
There are still some conspiracy theorists who believe in the
moon landing was staged.
There are still some conspiracy theorists who believe in that the
moon landing was staged
52. Believe to be
Construction: Correct:
believe X to be Y;
Fire department officials believed faulty wiring to be the cause
is believed to be + noun/gerund of the explosion.
Incorrect:
Fire department officials believed in faulty wiring to be the
cause of the explosion.
Fire department officials believed faulty wiring as being the
cause of the explosion.
Fire department officials believed in faulty wiring as the cause
of the explosion.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
Many of her supporters would benefit resulting from her plan to
expand tax breaks for the middle class.
Many of her supporters would benefit by her plan to expand tax
breaks for the middle class.
Many of her supporters would benefit out of her plan to expand
tax breaks for the middle class.
Incorrect:
Note: This construction is also There is nothing better compared to a glass of iced tea on a hot
valid for the following: worse summer day, but there are worse things besides water.
than, greater than, less than,
more than, larger than, smaller There is nothing better as a glass of iced tea on a hot summer
than, sooner than. day, but there are worse things as water.
There is nothing better rather than a glass of iced tea on a hot
summer day, but there are worse things rather than water.
Incorrect:
The couple couldn’t decide between a DJ or a band for their
wedding, so they flipped a coin.
The couple couldn’t decide between a DJ or else a band for
their wedding, so they flipped a coin.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
56. Born of
Construction: Correct:
born of + noun His success was born of hard work.
Incorrect:
Note: Means “a result of.” His success was born out from hard work.
Incorrect:
Material from both the readings as well as the class discussion
will be covered on the test.
Material from both the readings in addition to the class
discussion will be covered on the test.
58. Capable of
Construction: Correct:
capable of + noun/gerund Recent studies show that humans are far less capable of
multitasking than people previously believed.
Incorrect:
Recent studies show that humans are far less capable for
multitasking than people previously believed.
Recent studies show that humans are far less capable about
multitasking than people previously believed.
Recent studies show that humans are far less capable to
multitask than people previously believed.
59. Center on
Construction: Correct:
center on + noun/gerund The discussion centered on fracking’s environmental impact.
Incorrect:
The discussion centered around fracking’s environmental
impact.
The discussion centered onto fracking’s environmental impact.
The discussion centered in fracking’s environmental impact.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
60. Choice of
Construction: Correct:
choice of + noun The prix fixe offered a choice of three main courses.
Incorrect:
The prix fixe offered a choice for three main courses.
The prix fixe offered a choice about three main courses.
The prix fixe offered a choice as to three main courses.
62. Choose to
Construction: Correct:
choose to + base verb;
The actor chose to practice his lines without the aid of a
choose X to Y
teleprompter.
Incorrect:
The actor chose on practicing his lines without the aid of a
teleprompter.
The actor chose about practicing his lines without the aid of a
teleprompter.
Incorrect:
The cars collided into each other in the intersection.
The cars collided on each other in the intersection.
The cars collided to each other in the intersection.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
64. Comment on
Construction: Correct:
comment on + noun/gerund The police commissioner refused to comment on an active
investigation.
Incorrect:
The police commissioner refused to comment into an active
investigation.
he police commissioner refused to comment as to an active
T
investigation.
66. Compare to
Construction: Correct:
compare X to Y The young artist is already being compared to Dali.
Incorrect:
Note: When we compare X to Y, The young artist is already being compared as being like Dali.
generally we are expressing
that X is similar to Y. However,
people also use “compare X to
Y” in the same way as they use
“compare X with Y,” to express
that two items are being
compared and their similarities
and differences are being
considered.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
Olive oil combined along with balsamic vinegar and fresh
lemon makes a delicious salad dressing.
Olive oil combined to balsamic vinegar and fresh lemon makes
a delicious salad dressing.
68. Common to
Construction: Correct:
X is common to Y Political opponents must reach across the aisle to address the
concerns that are common to all of us.
Incorrect:
Natasha had nothing in common to her coworkers, so she felt
very uncomfortable at happy hour.
Natasha had nothing in common along with her coworkers, so
she felt very uncomfortable at happy hour.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
The meeting ended a half-hour later than scheduled to
compensate about the late start.
The meeting ended a half-hour later than scheduled to
compensate as to the late start.
The meeting ended a half-hour later than scheduled to
compensate in light of the late start.
Incorrect:
If you don’t comply to the officer’s instructions, you may be
charged with resisting arrest.
If you don’t comply about the officer’s instructions, you may be
charged with resisting arrest.
If you don’t comply along with the officer’s instructions, you
may be charged with resisting arrest.
72. Composed of
Construction: Correct:
composed of + noun The city council was composed of residents of all ages and
backgrounds.
73. Comprises
Construction: Correct:
comprises + noun The metropolitan area comprises the city and five surrounding
counties.
75. Conducive to
Construction: Correct:
conducive to + noun/gerund Such harsh rhetoric is not conducive to productive debate and
is unlikely to lead to compromise.
Incorrect:
Such harsh rhetoric is not conducive for productive debate and
is unlikely to lead to compromise.
Such harsh rhetoric is not conducive of productive debate and
is unlikely to lead to compromise.
Such harsh rhetoric is not conducive to productively debate
and is unlikely to lead to compromise.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
76. Conform to
Construction: Correct:
conform to + noun Avant-garde artists do not conform to social and cultural
trends, and thus are often viewed as controversial.
78. Consequence of
Construction: Correct:
consequence of + noun/gerund Numerous mid-level employees were laid off as a consequence
of the corporate restructuring.
Incorrect:
Numerous mid-level employees were laid off as a consequence
from the corporate restructuring.
Numerous mid-level employees were laid off as a consequence
because of the corporate restructuring.
Numerous mid-level employees were laid off as a consequence
to the corporate restructuring.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
79. Consider X Y
Construction: Correct:
consider + noun/gerund
Pundits consider the referendum likely to pass with
+ [characteristic/thing] overwhelming support.
Incorrect:
Pundits consider the referendum to be likely to pass with
overwhelming support.
Pundits consider the referendum as being to pass with
overwhelming support.
Pundits consider that the referendum is likely to pass with
overwhelming support.
80. Consist of
Construction: Correct:
consist of + noun/gerund The reading list consisted of both novels and nonfiction works
on the Soviet era.
Incorrect:
The reading list consisted about both novels and nonfiction
works on the Soviet era.
The reading list consisted with both novels and nonfiction
works on the Soviet era.
Incorrect:
The shattered window was consistent to a break-in.
The shattered window was consistent of a break-in.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
82. Continue to
Construction: Correct:
continue to + base verb The soldiers continued to advance through the wilderness as
night fell.
Incorrect:
The soldiers continued in advancing through the wilderness as
night fell.
The soldiers continued at advancing through the wilderness as
night fell.
Incorrect:
If you contrast his findings against those of previous studies,
you will see that further research is necessary.
If you contrast his findings from those of previous studies, you
will see that further research is necessary.
If you contrast his findings along with those of previous studies,
you will see that further research is necessary.
84. In contrast to
Construction: Correct:
in contrast to + noun;
The executive order stands in stark contrast to the president’s
in contrast to X, Y
campaign promise.
Incorrect:
The executive order stands in stark contrast against the
president’s campaign promise.
The executive order stands in stark contrast compared to the
president’s campaign promise.
The executive order stands in stark contrast from the
president’s campaign promise.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
85. Contribute to
Construction: Correct:
contribute to + noun/gerund Gorbachev’s glasnost policy greatly contributed to the end of
the Cold War.
Incorrect:
Gorbachev’s glasnost policy greatly contributed for the end of
the Cold War.
Gorbachev’s glasnost policy greatly contributed as to the end
of the Cold War.
Gorbachev’s glasnost policy greatly contributed into the end of
the Cold War.
86. Contrary to
Construction: Correct:
contrary to + noun Contrary to popular belief, pearls do not typically form from
grains of sand.
Incorrect:
Contrary from popular belief, pearls do not typically form from
grains of sand.
Contrary against popular belief, pearls do not typically form
from grains of sand.
Contrary of popular belief, pearls do not typically form from
grains of sand.
87. Convert to
Construction: Correct:
convert X to Y;
The human body converts carbohydrates to glucose for energy.
convert to + noun Incorrect:
The human body converts carbohydrates over to glucose for
energy.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
89. Convince to
Construction: Correct:
convince [someone] to +
Andrei’s best friend convinced him to join the organization.
base verb
Incorrect:
Andrei’s best friend convinced him into joining the organization.
Andrei’s best friend convinced him as to joining the
organization.
Andrei’s best friend convinced him on joining the organization.
90. Correspond to
Construction: Correct:
correspond to + noun
The number of ballots counted did not correspond to the
number of signatures on the voter roll, so a recount was done.
Incorrect:
Note: Means “match” or “be
The number of ballots counted did not correspond given the
equivalent/analogous to” (as
opposed to an exchange of number of signatures on the voter roll, so a recount was done.
communications, i.e., The number of ballots counted did not correspond in the
“correspond with”). number of signatures on the voter roll, so a recount was done.
The number of ballots counted did not correspond along with
the number of signatures on the voter roll, so a recount was
done.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
As the cost for college continued to rise, the cost from families
became untenable.
Incorrect:
Although Alexander Graham Bell is credited in inventing the
telephone, Antonio Meucci developed a design for the
telephone several years before Bell filed his patent.
Although Alexander Graham Bell is credited for inventing the
telephone, Antonio Meucci developed a design for the
telephone several years before Bell filed his patent.
Although Alexander Graham Bell is credited to have invented
the telephone, Antonio Meucci developed a design for the
telephone several years before Bell filed his patent.
94. A credit to
Construction: Correct:
a credit to + noun Dan, who has handled the situation quite well, is a credit to the
organization.
Incorrect:
Dan, who has handled the situation quite well, is a credit with
the organization.
Dan, who has handled the situation quite well, is a credit at the
organization.
Dan, who has handled the situation quite well, is a credit for the
organization.
95. Date at
Construction: Correct:
date [thing] + at [age] The fossil was dated at 350 million years old.
Incorrect:
Note: “ Date at” is a rarely used The fossil was dated as being 350 million years old.
idiom that means “determine to
be” (x years old).
The fossil was dated to be 350 million years old.
The fossil was dated that it was 350 million years old.
Incorrect:
Aid workers spent months dealing from the aftermath of the
hurricane.
Aid workers spent months dealing regarding the aftermath of
the hurricane.
Incorrect:
The debate of how to allocate the revenue lasted well into the
night.
The debate as to how to allocate the revenue lasted well into
the night.
Incorrect:
His publicist defended him away from the media onslaught
during his contentious divorce.
His publicist defended him to the media onslaught during his
contentious divorce.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
100. Define as
Construction: Correct:
define X as Y; define as + noun Many define healing as attaining a state of harmony.
Incorrect:
Note: Similar verbs that take Many define healing as being attaining a state of harmony.
this construction include the
following: depict, perceive, Many define healing to be attaining a state of harmony.
regard, see, view.
Many define healing is attaining a state of harmony.
101. Delighted by
Construction: Correct:
delighted by + noun Lena was delighted by her sister’s suggestion that they split the
lottery winnings.
Incorrect:
Note: “Delighted with” is usually Sienna was delighted from the new technology.
followed by an inanimate object
Sienna was delighted on the new technology.
or other thing that pleases
someone.
Incorrect:
The company demands for all prospective employees to pass a
drug test before a formal offer is made.
The company demands all prospective employees passing a
drug test before a formal offer is made.
The company demands all prospective employees to pass a
drug test before a formal offer is made.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
All domesticated dogs descended of wolves, though my dog
acts like a descendant from British royalty.
All domesticated dogs descended with wolves, though my dog
acts like a descendant to British royalty.
All domesticated dogs descended down from wolves, though
my dog acts like a descendant out of British royalty.
105. Desirous of
Construction: Correct:
desirous of + noun The populist rhetoric of tyrannical governments provides a
smoke screen for leaders who are desirous of wealth and
envious of others’ power.
Note: Another adjective that
smoke screen for leaders who are desirous for wealth and
envious for others’ power.
The populist rhetoric of tyrannical governments provides a
smoke screen for leaders desirous about wealth and envious
on others’ power.
The populist rhetoric of tyrannical governments provides a
smoke screen for leaders desirous to get wealth and envious
to have others’ power.
106. Determined by
Construction: Correct:
X is determined by Y Scientists believe that individual intelligence is determined by
both nature and nurture.
Incorrect:
Scientists believe that individual intelligence is determined from
both nature and nurture.
Scientists believe that individual intelligence is determined with
108. Differ in
Construction: Correct:
X and Y differ in Z;
Politically conservative citizens often differ widely in their
X differ in Y beliefs.
Incorrect:
Politically conservative citizens often differ widely as to their
beliefs.
Politically conservative citizens often differ widely between
their beliefs.
Incorrect:
The difference between investing or speculating is not clear to
many market participants.
The difference as to investing and speculating is not clear to
many market participants.
The difference regarding investing and speculating is not clear
to many market participants.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
110. Difficult to
Construction: Correct:
difficult to + base verb Initially, it was difficult to assess the damage because the
floodwaters were so high.
Incorrect:
Initially, it was difficult as to assess the damage because the
floodwaters were so high.
Initially, it was difficult in assessing the damage because the
floodwaters were so high.
Incorrect:
Sheila tried to discourage her son about watching TV all
afternoon by suggesting that he play soccer with some of the
other kids in the neighborhood.
Sheila tried to discourage her son against watching TV all
afternoon by suggesting that he play soccer with some of the
other kids in the neighborhood.
Sheila tried to discourage her son not to watch TV all afternoon
by suggesting that he play soccer with some of the other kids in
the neighborhood.
112. Dispose of
Construction: Correct:
dispose of + noun The judge declared a mistrial after the defense revealed that
the investigating officer had improperly disposed of evidence.
Incorrect:
The judge declared a mistrial after the defense revealed that
the investigating officer had improperly disposed evidence.
The judge declared a mistrial after the defense revealed that
the investigating officer had improperly disposed away
evidence.
The judge declared a mistrial after the defense revealed that
the investigating officer had improperly disposed out evidence.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
Within the Northeast U.S., local accents are surprisingly
divergent apart from one another, even varying within cities.
Within the Northeast U.S., local accents are surprisingly
divergent away from one another, even varying within cities.
Within the Northeast U.S., local accents are surprisingly
divergent to one another, even varying within cities.
Incorrect:
When auditioning for a role in a tearjerker, she draws out of sad
experiences from her own life; in comedic roles, she often
draws inspiration out of her childhood.
When auditioning for a role in a tearjerker, she draws based on
sad experiences from her own life; in comedic roles, she often
draws inspiration based on her childhood.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
116. Due to
Construction: Correct:
due to + noun The growing trend of “cord-cutting” in recent years has been
due to increased competition from streaming services.
Incorrect:
Y ou can either eat your vegetables or else go to your room;
neither your father or else I will be happy if you choose the
latter.
Y ou can either eat your vegetables or otherwise go to your
room; neither your father or I will be happy if you choose the
latter.
You can either eat your vegetables, otherwise go to your room;
not your father nor I will be happy if you choose the latter.
118. Embarrassed by
Construction: Correct:
embarrassed by + noun John was embarrassed by his parents’ public displays of
affection.
119. Employ as
Construction: Correct:
employ as + noun While employed as a kindergarten teacher, Bethany also
worked as a bartender during the summers.
120. Enable to
Construction: Correct:
enable X to Y. The funding increase enabled the school to purchase new
textbooks.
Incorrect:
The funding increase enabled the school in purchasing new
textbooks.
The funding increase enabled the school in the purchase of
new textbooks.
The funding increase enabled the school of purchasing new
textbooks.
Incorrect:
The boys were enamored at the puppy and played fetch with it
all morning.
The boys were enamored on the puppy and played fetch with it
all morning.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
122. Equal to
Construction: Correct:
equal to + noun Winning the tournament took incredible focus and stamina, but
the team showed that they were equal to the task.
Incorrect:
Winning the tournament took incredible focus and stamina, but
the team showed that they were equal up against the task.
Winning the tournament took incredible focus and stamina, but
the team showed that they were equal in facing the task.
Winning the tournament took incredible focus and stamina, but
the team showed that they were equal for the task.
123. Estimate to be
Construction: Correct:
estimate X to be Y The family fortune was estimated to be nearly a billion dollars,
but much of the money was invested overseas.
Incorrect:
The family fortune was estimated as being nearly a billion
dollars, but much of the money was invested overseas.
The family fortune was estimated for nearly a billion dollars, but
much of the money was invested overseas.
The family fortune was estimated near to a billion dollars, but
much of the money was invested overseas.
124. Expect to
Construction: Correct:
expect to + base verb;
Ruth expects her kids to clean their dishes, so she didn’t expect
expect X to Y
to find a mess in the kitchen when she got home late from work.
Incorrect:
Ruth expects for her kids to clean their dishes, so she didn’t
expect for finding a mess in the kitchen when she got home
late from work.
Ruth expects as to her kids cleaning their dishes, so she didn’t
expect as to finding a mess in the kitchen when she got home
late from work.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
125. Expend on
Construction: Correct:
expend [time/resource] + on The company expended so much of its annual budget on the
[activity/thing] marketing campaign that there was no money left to give
holiday bonuses to the employees.
Incorrect:
The company expended so much of its annual budget for the
marketing campaign that there was no money left to give
holiday bonuses to the employees.
The company expended so much of its annual budget to the
marketing campaign that there was no money left to give
holiday bonuses to the employees.
The company expended so much of its annual budget into the
marketing campaign that there was no money left to give
holiday bonuses to the employees.
126. Extend to
Construction: Correct:
extend X to Y;
I admire celebrities who extend a helping hand to those in
extend to + noun need and expose their children to other ways of life.
Incorrect:
Note: The verbs expose and I admire celebrities who extend a helping hand onto those in
explain can also take this need and expose their children into other ways of life.
construction.
I admire celebrities who extend a helping hand regarding those
in need and expose their children regarding other ways of life.
I admire celebrities who extend a helping hand as to those in
need and expose their children as to other ways of life.
127. Extent of
Construction: Correct:
extent of + noun The interviews, conducted over many years, revealed the full
extent of Charles Manson’s madness.
Incorrect:
The interviews, conducted over many years, revealed the full
extent as to Charles Manson’s madness.
The interviews, conducted over many years, revealed the full
extent in regard to Charles Manson’s madness.
The interviews, conducted over many years, revealed the full
extent about Charles Manson’s madness.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
He knew he would be on his feet for most of the night, so he
exchanged the shoes to be a more comfortable pair.
He knew he would be on his feet for most of the night, so he
exchanged the shoes to be a more comfortable pair.
He knew he would be on his feet for most of the night, so he
exchanged the shoes into a more comfortable pair.
Incorrect:
Before he took the course in classical music, he wasn’t even
familiar about Beethoven’s Fifth.
Before he took the course in classical music, he wasn’t even
familiar as to Beethoven’s Fifth.
Before he took the course in classical music, he wasn’t even
familiar regarding Beethoven’s Fifth.
Incorrect:
Frannie is particularly fascinated on string theory.
Frannie is particularly fascinated about string theory.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
Frannie’s fascination on physics isn’t limited to controversial
theories.
Frannie’s fascination about physics isn’t limited to controversial
theories.
132. Fluctuation in
Construction: Correct:
fluctuation in + noun Recent fluctuations in the stock market have made investors
wary.
Incorrect:
Recent fluctuations to the stock market have made investors
wary.
Recent fluctuations by the stock market have made investors
wary.
133. Focus on
Construction: Correct:
focus on + noun/gerund You will get more accomplished by focusing on the task at hand
rather than worrying about what you need to do next.
Incorrect:
You will get more accomplished by focusing at the task at hand
rather than worrying about what you need to do next.
You will get more accomplished by focusing to the task at hand
rather than worrying about what you need to do next.
You will get more accomplished by focusing into the task at
hand rather than worrying about what you need to do next.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
134. Followed by
Construction: Correct:
followed by + noun The reading will be followed by a brief question-and-answer
period and then a book signing.
Incorrect:
The reading will be followed with a brief question-and-answer
period and then a book signing.
The reading will be followed to a brief question-and-answer
period and then a book signing.
The reading will be followed along with a brief
question-and-answer period and then a book signing.
Incorrect:
Note: Used to show a For every thousand dollars in sales, then the company will
cause-and-effect relationship. donate one dollar to charity.
For every thousand dollars in sales, that means the company
will donate one dollar to charity.
136. Forbid/forbidden to
Construction: Correct:
forbid X to Y;
The hunters were forbidden to enter private lands.
forbidden to + base verb
Incorrect:
The hunters were forbidden from entering private lands.
The hunters were forbidden entering private lands.
The hunters were forbidden about entering private lands.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
137. Frequency/infrequency of
Construction: Correct:
frequency/infrequency of + The frequency of the collisions indicates that we need to
noun reevaluate the traffic signals in this intersection.
Incorrect:
The frequency about the collisions indicates that we need to
reevaluate the traffic signals in this intersection.
The frequency as to the collisions indicates that we need to
reevaluate the traffic signals in this intersection.
The frequency regarding the collisions indicates that we need
to reevaluate the traffic signals in this intersection.
138. From X to Y
Construction: Correct:
from [location/amount] + to If you drive from New York to New Jersey, you will see the price
[location/amount] of a gallon of gasoline drop from $4.00 to $2.50.
Incorrect:
Note: Used to indicate a range, If you drive out from New York into New Jersey, you will see the
a distance, or a change in price of a gallon of gasoline drop from $4.00 into $2.50.
amount. If you drive out from New York over to New Jersey, you will see
the price of a gallon of gasoline drop down from $4.00 to
$2.50.
139. Hindered by
Construction: Correct:
to be + hindered by + noun His advancement in the company has been hindered by his
lack of confidence, not by a lack of competence.
Incorrect:
His advancement in the company has been hindered with his
lack of confidence, not with a lack of competence.
His advancement in the company has been hindered out of his
lack of confidence, not from a lack of competence.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
140. Inclined/disinclined to
Construction: Correct:
inclined/disinclined to +
She was inclined to refuse the promotion because of the
base verb weekend hours, but the generous salary increase made her
think twice.
Incorrect:
She was inclined of refusing the promotion because of the
weekend hours, but the generous salary increase made her
think twice.
She was inclined for refusing the promotion because of the
weekend hours, but the generous salary increase made her
think twice.
She was inclined at refusal of the promotion because of the
weekend hours, but the generous salary increase made her
think twice.
141. Identical to
Construction: Correct:
identical to + noun Fraternal twins are not identical to each other in physical
appearance or genetic makeup.
142. Introduce to
Construction: Correct:
introduce X to Y;
Nomadic tribes inadvertently introduced the invasive species of
introduce to + noun plant to the wetlands.
Incorrect:
Nomadic tribes inadvertently introduced the invasive species of
plant to be in the wetlands.
Nomadic tribes inadvertently introduced the invasive species
inside the wetlands.
Nomadic tribes inadvertently introduced the invasive species of
plant as being in the wetlands.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
He inherited the economic crisis off his predecessor but was
nonetheless tasked with solving it.
He inherited the economic crisis out of his predecessor but
was nonetheless tasked with solving it.
He inherited the economic crisis by his predecessor but was
nonetheless tasked with solving it.
144. In an effort to
Construction: Correct:
in an effort to + base verb In an effort to make her patients feel more comfortable, the
doctor had soothing music playing in the waiting room.
Incorrect:
In an effort of making her patients feel more comfortable, the
doctor had soothing music playing in the waiting room.
In an effort for making her patients feel more comfortable, the
doctor had soothing music playing in the waiting room.
In an effort in order to make her patients feel more comfortable,
the doctor had soothing music playing in the waiting room.
145. In awe of
Construction: Correct:
[to be] + in awe of + noun
Robert was in awe of his mentor’s accomplishments and hoped
to follow in her footsteps.
146. In danger of
Construction: Correct:
[to be] + in danger of + gerund
Luke was in danger of failing the class if he didn’t do well on
the final exam.
Incorrect:
Luke was in danger to fail the class if he didn’t do well on the
final exam.
Luke was in danger with failing the class if he didn’t do well on
the final exam.
Luke was in danger for failing the class if he didn’t do well on
the final exam.
147. In order to
Construction: Correct:
in order to + base verb The whistleblower asked the news program to blur his face and
disguise his voice in order to preserve his anonymity.
Incorrect:
The whistleblower asked the news program to blur his face and
disguise his voice in order for preserving his anonymity.
The whistleblower asked the news program to blur his face and
disguise his voice in order of preserving his anonymity.
149. Independent of
Construction: Correct:
independent of + noun The Supreme Court is supposed to uphold the Constitution,
independent of personal politics.
Incorrect:
His indifference from the homeless makes his ostentatious
displays of wealth seem all the more tasteless.
His indifference for the plight of the homeless makes his
ostentatious displays of wealth seem all the more tasteless.
His indifference about the homeless makes his ostentatious
displays of wealth seem all the more tasteless.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
Those who became infected from Ebola during the medical
mission were immediately quarantined and treated when they
returned to the United States.
Those who became infected of Ebola during the medical
mission were immediately quarantined and treated when they
returned to the United States.
Those who became infected in Ebola during the medical
mission were immediately quarantined and treated when they
returned to the United States.
152. Instance of
Construction: Correct:
instance of + noun The meetings revealed yet another instance of a quid pro quo
at the highest levels of government, and the public voiced its
disapproval in the voting booths.
Incorrect:
The meetings revealed yet another instance that was a quid
pro quo at the highest levels of government, and the public
voiced its disapproval in the voting booths.
The meetings revealed yet another instance of being a quid pro
quo at the highest levels of government, and the public voiced
its disapproval in the voting booths.
The meetings revealed yet another instance regarding a quid
pro quo at the highest levels of government, and the public
voiced its disapproval in the voting booths.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
153. Instead of
Construction: Correct:
noun + instead of + noun;
When she is running late, she takes the car instead of the train.
verb + instead of + verb-ing
When she is running late, she takes the car instead of taking
the train.
Incorrect:
When she is running late, she takes the car instead of she takes
the train.
When she is running late, she takes the car instead of by the
train.
155. Intend/intent to
Construction: Correct:
intend/intent to + base verb George intended to compliment his girlfriend on her new
haircut, but she thought he was teasing her.
156. Interaction of
Construction: Correct:
interaction of X and Y;
The interaction of stearic acid and lye causes saponification.
interaction of X with Y;
Incorrect:
interaction of + plural noun
The interaction of stearic acid to lye causes saponification.
The interaction from stearic acid and lye causes saponification.
The interaction from stearic acid to lye causes saponification.
157. Introduce to
Construction: Correct:
introduce X to Y At the dinner, Fredericka introduced her best friend to her new
boyfriend, but to her dismay, the two didn’t seem to get along.
Incorrect:
At the dinner, Fredericka introduced her best friend with her
new boyfriend, but to her dismay, the two didn’t seem to get
along.
At the dinner, Fredericka introduced between her best friend
and her new boyfriend, but to her dismay, the two didn’t seem
to get along.
Incorrect:
Note: The verb separate also Randy’s awkwardness on the soccer field made him feel
takes this construction. isolated out of the rest of the team.
Randy’s awkwardness on the soccer field made him feel
isolated apart from the rest of the team.
Randy’s awkwardness on the soccer field made him feel
isolated in regards to the rest of the team.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
159. Joined by
Construction: Correct:
joined by + noun After the lead actor took his bows, he was joined on stage by
the rest of the cast for the standing ovation.
Incorrect:
After the lead actor took his bows, he was joined on stage
along with the rest of the cast for the standing ovation.
160. Judge by
Construction: Correct:
judge by + noun;
M artin Luther King, Jr., famously hoped for a nation where his
judge X by Y children would not be judged by the color of their skin, but by
the content of their character.
162. Known as
Construction: Correct:
known as + noun/pronoun The serial killer known as Jack the Ripper was never identified
or captured by authorities.
Incorrect:
The serial killer known as being Jack the Ripper was never
identified or captured by authorities.
The serial killer known as that he was Jack the Ripper was
never identified or captured by authorities.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
164. Known to be
Construction: Correct:
known to be + Monkeys of many types are known to be quite playful.
noun/characteristic
Incorrect:
Monkeys of many types are known as being quite playful.
165. Lead to
Construction: Correct:
lead to + noun; lead X to Y Catalonia’s recent declaration of its independence led to
worries from European Union leaders that Spain would respond
with a show of force in the region.
Incorrect:
Catalonia’s recent declaration of its independence led into
worries from European Union leaders that Spain would respond
with a show of force in the region.
Catalonia’s recent declaration of its independence led for
worries from European Union leaders that Spain would respond
with a show of force in the region.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
166. Likely/unlikely to
Construction: Correct:
likely to + base verb Rachel is likely to be accepted to a prestigious college because
her grades are top-notch.
Incorrect:
Rachel is likely of being accepted to a prestigious college
because her grades are top-notch.
Rachel is likely for being accepted to a prestigious college
because her grades are top-notch.
Rachel is likely as being accepted to a prestigious college
because her grades are top-notch.
167. Liken to
Construction: Correct:
liken X to Y;
The poet likened the woman’s eyes to sapphires.
liken to + noun
Incorrect:
The poet likened the woman’s eyes to being sapphires.
The poet likened the woman’s eyes as sapphires.
The poet likened the woman’s eyes with sapphires.
168. Localized in
Construction: Correct:
localized in + [place] Researchers found that incidences of the rare bone cancer
were localized in a town directly downwind of a factory that
produced pesticides.
Incorrect:
Researchers found that incidences of the rare bone cancer
were localized into a town directly downwind of a factory that
produced pesticides.
Researchers found that incidences of the rare bone cancer
were localized from a town directly downwind of a factory that
produced pesticides.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
169. Manage to
Construction: Correct:
manage to + base verb No matter how difficult things get, she always manages to land
on her feet.
Incorrect:
No matter how difficult things get, she always manages at
landing on her feet.
No matter how difficult things get, she always manages as to
landing on her feet.
Incorrect:
Jane mistook Randall’s car keys as being her own and had to
walk back to the house.
Jane mistook Randall’s car keys with her own and had to walk
back to the house.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
The solar-powered concept car is modeled as the American
muscle cars of the 1960s.
The solar-powered concept car is modeled as in the American
muscle cars of the 1960s.
The solar-powered concept car is modeled in regards to the
American muscle cars of the 1960s.
Incorrect:
The new party leaders are moving away of the more regressive
policy proposals of the past in an attempt to court younger
voters.
The new party leaders are moving away as to the more
regressive policy proposals of the past in an attempt to court
younger voters.
Incorrect:
The botanist, a native to Boston, specialized in the study of
medicinal plants native of the Amazon rainforest.
The botanist, native to Boston, specialized in the study of
medicinal plants native out of the Amazon rainforest.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
Although you need working hard, it is still necessary prioritizing
your health.
Incorrect:
The declining birth rate in Japan highlights the need as to
creative solutions to economic instability and sporadic
unemployment among the nation’s young workers.
The declining birth rate in Japan highlights the need in regard
to creative solutions to economic instability and sporadic
unemployment among the nation’s young workers.
Incorrect:
The Paris Agreement emphasizes the necessity to transparency
among governments in order to mitigate global climate change.
The Paris Agreement emphasizes the necessity in regard to
transparency among governments in order to mitigate global
climate change.
Incorrect:
The loan came not from his parents but also from his cousin.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
179. Not only ... but (also) / Not just ... but also
Construction: Correct:
not only X but also Y Clint Eastwood is known not only as an actor but also as a
director.
Incorrect:
Clint Eastwood is known not only as an actor but as well as a
director.
Clint Eastwood is known not only as an actor and also as a
director.
Incorrect:
Among the younger generation of Americans, Al Gore is known
not so much for holding office but because of raising
awareness of climate change.
Among the younger generation of Americans, Al Gore is known
not that much for holding office as for raising awareness about
climate change.
Incorrect:
Doctors noted about patients of similar ages still exhibited
disparate symptoms.
Doctors noted as to how patients of similar ages still exhibited
disparate symptoms.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
182. Oblivious to
Construction: Correct:
oblivious to + noun Selfish people are often oblivious to the concerns of others.
Incorrect:
Selfish people are often oblivious for the concerns of others.
Selfish people are often oblivious from the concerns of others.
Selfish people are often oblivious over the concerns of others.
Incorrect:
The company retreat is an opportunity in everyone on the team
getting better acquainted, an opportunity in open dialogue, and
an opportunity in relaxing.
The company retreat is an opportunity as to everyone on the
team getting better acquainted, an opportunity as to open
dialogue, and an opportunity as to relaxing.
184. Opposed/opposition to
Construction: Correct:
opposed/opposition to +
Opposition to the union’s demands is strong, although union
noun/gerund leaders are not opposed to compromise.
Incorrect:
Opposition at the union’s demands is strong, although union
leaders are not opposed at compromise.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
185. Opposite of
Construction: Correct:
X is the opposite of Y;
His statement to the newspaper conveyed the exact opposite of
opposite of + noun what he had told her in private the day before.
Incorrect:
His statement to the newspaper conveyed the exact opposite
from what he had told her in private the day before.
His statement to the newspaper conveyed the exact opposite
compared to what he had told her in private the day before.
186. Order to
Construction: Correct:
order X to Y;
The judge ordered the court to quiet down.
order to + base verb
Incorrect:
The judge ordered the court quieting down.
The judge ordered the court as to quieting down.
The judge ordered the court that they should quiet down.
187. Ought to
Construction: Correct:
ought to + base verb You ought to consider changing your diet if your heartburn
continues.
Incorrect:
You aught to consider changing your diet if your heartburn
continues.
You ought consider changing your diet if your heartburn
continues.
You ought should consider changing your diet if your heartburn
continues.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
188. Out of
Construction: Correct:
out of + noun/gerund The therapist advised the couple to focus on the issues that
were most important to them rather than making a big deal out
of minor annoyances.
Incorrect:
The therapist advised the couple to focus on the issues that
were most important to them rather than making a big deal out
from minor annoyances.
190. Originate in
Construction: Correct:
originate in + The celebration known as All Hallows Eve originated in eighth
[location/time period] century Europe.
Incorrect:
Note: “Originate in” means The celebration known as All Hallows Eve originated on eighth
“start in.” century Europe
192. Partake in
Construction: Correct:
partake in + [activity] Let’s partake in the festivities.
Incorrect:
Note: Partake in means “take Let’s partake at the festivities.
part in.”
Let’s partake on the festivities.
Let’s partake to the festivities.
193. Participate/participant in
Construction: Correct:
participate/participant in + noun As a show of support for the planned community garden, local
business owners participated in the cleanup of the vacant lot.
Incorrect:
As a show of support for the planned community garden, local
business owners participated into the cleanup of the vacant lot.
As a show of support for the planned community garden, local
business owners participated on the cleanup of the vacant lot.
194. Perceive as
Construction: Correct:
perceive X as Y;
Sometime people perceive opportunities as threats.
perceive as + noun
Incorrect:
Sometime people perceive opportunities as being threats.
Sometime people perceive opportunities as if threats.
Sometime people perceive opportunities for threats.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
195. Potential to
Construction: Correct:
potential to + base verb Advancements in artificial intelligence have the potential to
change the way we view consciousness.
Incorrect:
Advancements in artificial intelligence have the potential of
changing the way we view consciousness.
Advancements in artificial intelligence have the potential in
changing the way we view consciousness.
Advancements in artificial intelligence have the potential as to
changing the way we view consciousness.
196. Predispose to
Construction: Correct:
predispose X to Y; Krista was careful about her diet because her family history
predisposed to + noun indicated that she was predisposed to diabetes.
Incorrect:
Krista was careful about her diet because her family history
indicated that she was predisposed for diabetes.
Krista was careful about her diet because her family history
indicated that she was predisposed in diabetes.
Incorrect:
Henry hated going to the dentist, but he knew that a regular
checkup was preferable as opposed to cavities.
Henry hated going to the dentist, but he knew that a regular
checkup was preferable from cavities.
Henry hated going to the dentist, but he knew that a regular
checkup was preferable compared to cavities.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
The housing discrimination lawsuit presented strong evidence
that the landlord was prejudiced to immigrants.
The housing discrimination lawsuit presented strong evidence
that the landlord was prejudiced from immigrants.
The housing discrimination lawsuit presented strong evidence
that the landlord was prejudiced with immigrants.
the area.
Only a narrow barrier prevented the water not to enter
the area.
Only a narrow barrier prevented the water to enter the area.
200. Prior to
Construction: Correct:
prior to + noun/gerund You must pass the written exam for your driver’s license prior to
taking the on-road test.
Incorrect:
You must pass the written exam for your driver’s license prior of
taking the on-road test.
You must pass the written exam for your driver’s license prior
with taking the on-road test.
You must pass the written exam for your driver’s license prior
taking the on-road test.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
201. Prized by
Construction: Correct:
prized by + [person/group] The best quality figs were so prized by the Greeks that
exporting them was forbidden.
Incorrect:
The best quality figs were so prized with the Greeks that
exporting them was forbidden.
The best quality figs were so prized to the Greeks that
exporting them was forbidden.
Incorrect:
Regulations prohibited the group against entering the
wildlife preserve.
Regulations prohibited the group about entering the
wildlife preserve.
Regulations prohibited the group to enter the wildlife preserve.
203. Prone to
Construction: Correct:
prone to + noun/gerund; The application was prone to crashes and needed to
Incorrect:
The application was prone of crashes and needed to
be updated.
The application was prone for crashes and needed to
be updated.
The application was prone in crashes and needed to
be updated.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
In addition to a healthful diet, regular exercise helps protect
away from heart disease.
In addition to a healthful diet, regular exercise helps protect as
to heart disease.
Incorrect:
The venture capital provided the company in sufficient funding
to expand its operations into neighboring states.
The venture capital provided the company for sufficient
funding to expand its operations into neighboring states.
The venture capital provided the company to have sufficient
funding to expand its operations into neighboring states.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
Topics in the media literacy course ranged starting from source
evaluation to the influence of corporate advertisers.
Topics in the media literacy course ranged from source
evaluation into the influence of corporate advertisers.
Topics in the media literacy course ranged from source
evaluation over to the influence of corporate advertisers.
208. Range of
Construction: Correct:
range of + noun The manufacturer’s latest SUV models offer a range of optional
features.
Incorrect:
The manufacturer’s latest SUV models offer a range in optional
features.
The manufacturer’s latest SUV models offer a range as to
optional features.
210. Receptive to
Construction: Correct:
receptive to + noun Greg dreads his annual work evaluation because he has never
been receptive to criticism.
Incorrect:
Greg dreads his annual work evaluation because he has never
been receptive of criticism.
Greg dreads his annual work evaluation because he has never
been receptive for criticism.
Greg dreads his annual work evaluation because he has never
been receptive about criticism.
211. Refer/reference to
Construction: Correct:
refer/reference to + noun
If you refer to the closing chapter of the novel, you’ll find that
there are several references to the Garden of Eden.
Incorrect:
If you refer off the closing chapter of the novel, you’ll find that
there are several references off the Garden of Eden.
If you refer of the closing chapter of the novel, you’ll find that
there are several references of the Garden of Eden.
If you refer from the closing chapter of the novel, you’ll find that
there are several references about the Garden of Eden.
212. Regard as
Construction: Correct:
regard X as Y;
Some people regard him as the most skilled healer of his time.
regard as + noun
Incorrect:
Some people regard him as being the most skilled healer of
his time.
Some people regard him to be the most skilled healer of
his time.
Some people regard that he is the most skilled healer of
his time.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
213. Relate/related to
Construction: Correct:
relate/related to + noun Preferring video games to sports, Derek found it difficult to
relate to his brothers, even though he was related to them.
Incorrect:
Preferring video games to sports, Derek found it difficult to
relate between his brothers, even though he was related
between them.
Preferring video games to sports, Derek found it difficult to
relate as to his brothers, even though he was related as to
them.
214. Reluctant to
Construction: Correct:
reluctant to + base verb Darla was reluctant to take off her shoes when she arrived at
the party, but the owner of the house insisted.
Incorrect:
Darla was reluctant against taking off her shoes when she
arrived at the party, but the owner of the house insisted.
Darla was reluctant of taking off her shoes when she arrived at
the party, but the owner of the house insisted.
Incorrect:
The baker replaced the chocolate chips as carob chips in the
vegan version of the cookies.
The baker replaced the chocolate chips into carob chips in the
vegan version of the cookies.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
The government requires of public companies to follow the
guidelines, whereas privately held companies are not required
of doing so.
The government requires public companies as to following the
guidelines, whereas privately held companies are not required
as to doing so.
The government requires public companies regarding follow
the guidelines, whereas privately held companies are not
required regarding doing so.
217. Required/requirement of
Construction: Correct:
required/requirement of + noun Having completed the application, John was wondering what
else the company would require of him.
Incorrect:
Having completed the application, John was wondering what
else the company would require by him.
Having completed the application, John was wondering what
else the company would require out of him.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
Victor’s new girlfriend bears a striking resemblance compared
to his ex, whereas there is no resemblance of Ronan’s current
girlfriend and his previous one.
Victor’s new girlfriend bears a striking resemblance for his ex,
whereas there is no resemblance for Ronan’s current girlfriend
to his previous one.
Victor’s new girlfriend bears a striking resemblance against his
ex, whereas there is no resemblance between Ronan’s current
girlfriend to his previous one.
219. Resistant/resistance to
Construction: Correct:
resistant/resistance to + Doctors worry that a new strain of streptococcus will be
noun/gerund resistant to current antibiotics.
Incorrect:
Doctors worry that a new strain of streptococcus will be
resistant of current antibiotics.
Doctors worry that a new strain of streptococcus will be
resistant for current antibiotics.
220. Respond/response to
Construction: Correct:
respond/response to + The UN recommended diplomacy in response to the threat.
noun/gerund.
Incorrect:
The UN recommended diplomacy in response of the threat.
The UN recommended diplomacy in response for the threat.
The UN recommended diplomacy in response at the threat.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
222. Responsibility to
Construction: Correct:
responsibility to + base verb It is your responsibility to keep your room clean.
Incorrect:
It is your responsibility of keeping your room clean.
Incorrect:
The school determined that the increase in student
performance had resulted out from the change in the menu.
The school determined that the increase in student
performance had resulted out of the change in the menu.
225. Result in
Construction: Correct:
result from/in/of + noun/gerund The school determined that the change in the menu had
resulted in an increase in student performance.
Incorrect:
The school determined that the change in the menu had
resulted into an increase in student performance.
The school determined that the change in the menu had
resulted as an increase in student performance.
226. Result of
Construction: Correct:
result of + noun/gerund The school determined that the increase in student
performance was a result of the change in the menu.
Incorrect:
The school determined that the increase in student
performance was a result out of the change in the menu.
The school determined that the increase in student
performance was a result to the change in the menu.
227. Rid of
Construction: Correct:
rid X of Y;
He wanted to rid the brand of its elitist reputation, so he got rid
[get/be] rid of + noun of the outdated marketing strategy first.
Incorrect:
He wanted to rid the brand from its elitist reputation, so he got
rid from the outdated marketing strategy first.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
A recurring question has been how much freedom citizens are
willing to sacrifice into security.
A recurring question has been how much freedom citizens are
willing to sacrifice against security.
229. Same as
Construction: Correct:
X is the same as Y Do you believe that omitting the truth is the same as lying?
Incorrect:
Do you believe that omitting the truth is the same with lying?
Save other than her best friend, Tina’s friends didn’t attend her
gallery exhibition.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
232. In search of
Construction: Correct:
in search of + noun The settlers pack their wagons and set out West in search of
gold and fortune.
Incorrect:
The settlers pack their wagons and set out West in search for
gold and fortune.
The settlers pack their wagons and set out West to search of
gold and fortune.
The settlers pack their wagons and set out West in searching
gold and fortune.
233. Sensitive to
Construction: Correct:
sensitive to + noun Justine was sensitive to her employees’ concerns about the
new auditing procedures, so she organized a group training
session.
Incorrect:
Justine was sensitive for her employees’ concerns about the
new auditing procedures, so she organized a group training
session.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
234. Sequence of
Construction: Correct:
sequence of + noun The sequence of events leading up to the crash was unclear.
Incorrect:
The sequence in events leading up to the crash was unclear.
The sequence to events leading up to the crash was unclear.
The sequence for events leading up to the crash was unclear.
236. Similar to
Construction: Correct:
X is similar to Y Research suggests that the intelligence of pigs is similar to that
of dogs.
Incorrect:
Research suggests that the intelligence of pigs is similar with
that of dogs.
Research suggests that the intelligence of pigs is similar as that
of dogs.
Research suggests that the intelligence of pigs is similar
compared to that of dogs.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
237. So X as to Y
Construction: Correct:
so adjective + as to base verb Her victory was so decisive as to arouse suspicions that she
was using performance-enhancing drugs.
Incorrect:
Her victory was so decisive as it aroused suspicions that she
was using performance-enhancing drugs.
Her victory was so decisive as arousing suspicions that she was
using performance-enhancing drugs.
Her victory was so decisive as in arousing suspicions that she
was using performance-enhancing drugs.
238. So X that Y
Construction: Correct:
so adjective/adverb + that clause The earthquake was so powerful that the windows rattled.
Incorrect:
The earthquake was so powerful as the windows rattled.
239. Spend on
Construction: Correct:
spend X on Y;
The company spent more money on training programs this
spend on + noun/gerund year than it has in any previous year.
Incorrect:
The company spent more money into training programs this
year than it has in any previous year.
240. Subject to
Construction: Correct:
subject [someone] to [something]; The terms and conditions of this agreement are subject to
subject to + noun change without advance notification.
Incorrect:
The terms and conditions of this agreement are subject for
change without advance notification.
The terms and conditions of this agreement are subject to be
changed without advance notification.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
Make sure to reduce the measurement by half if you substitute
granulated sugar with honey in this recipe.
Make sure to reduce the measurement by half if you substitute
honey instead of granulated sugar in this recipe.
Make sure to reduce the measurement by half if you substitute
honey into granulated sugar in this recipe.
rare illnesses.
243. Superior to
Construction: Correct:
superior to + noun Serena thinks she is superior to her classmates because her
family is wealthy.
Incorrect:
Serena thinks she is superior than her classmates because her
family is wealthy.
Serena thinks she is superior over her classmates because her
family is wealthy.
Serena thinks she is superior from her classmates because her
family is wealthy.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
244. Supplanted by
Construction: Correct:
supplanted by + noun Many surgical procedures have been supplanted by minimally
invasive techniques.
Incorrect:
Many surgical procedures have been supplanted with
minimally invasive techniques.
Many surgical procedures have been supplanted in favor
minimally invasive techniques.
245. Suspicious of
Construction: Correct:
suspicious of + noun As the threat of a coup intensified, the king became suspicious
of even his closest and most trusted advisors.
Incorrect:
As the threat of a coup intensified, the king became suspicious
as to even his closest and most trusted advisors.
Incorrect:
The regulators had little sympathy about the people who tried
to manipulate the market and lost money as a result.
The regulators had little sympathy toward the people who tried
to manipulate the market and lost money as a result.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
lower taxes.
Incorrect:
The congressman sympathized to those calling for lower taxes.
The congressman sympathized for those calling for
lower taxes.
The congressman sympathized about those calling for
lower taxes.
Incorrect:
The insurgents took advantage out of the power vacuum.
The insurgents took advantage from the power vacuum.
249. Target at
Construction: Correct:
target X at Y;
The early morning advertisements are targeted at senior
target at + noun/pronoun/gerund citizens, whereas the late-night advertisements have the 18 to
30 demographic in mind.
Incorrect:
The early morning advertisements are targeted for senior
citizens, whereas the late-night advertisements have the 18 to
30 demographic in mind.
The early morning advertisements are targeted around senior
citizens, whereas the late-night advertisements have the 18 to
30 demographic in mind.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
250. Tend/tendency to
Construction: Correct:
tend/tendency to + base verb Many people have a tendency to snack while they
watch television.
watch television.
Many people have a tendency of snacking while they
watch television.
Many people have a tendency that they snack while they
watch television.
251. Think of as
Construction: Correct:
think of X as Y;
Think of the GMAT as an opportunity to demonstrate
Incorrect:
Note: Verb may be conjugated. Think about the GMAT as an opportunity to demonstrate
your skills.
Think of the GMAT as being an opportunity to demonstrate
your skills.
252. Thought
Construction: Correct:
thought + noun; thought X Y Many of the scientist’s neighbors thought him eccentric.
Incorrect:
Many of the scientist’s neighbors thought him as eccentric.
Many of the scientist’s neighbors thought him as
being eccentric.
Many of the scientist’s neighbors thought about him
as eccentric.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
253. Thought to be
Construction: Correct:
thought to be X;
The painting was thought to be one of Picasso's early works but
thought X to be Y turned out to be a forgery.
Incorrect:
The painting was thought as being one of Picasso's early works
but turned out to be a forgery.
The painting was thought of as being one of Picasso's early
works but turned out to be a forgery.
The painting was thought about as being one of Picasso's early
works but turned out to be a forgery.
254. Tie to
Construction: Correct:
tie to + noun; tie X to Y The 2008 collapse of the U.S. housing market was tied to
increased housing speculation and subprime lending in the
preceding years.
Incorrect:
The 2008 collapse of the U.S. housing market was tied toward
increased housing speculation and subprime lending in the
preceding years.
The 2008 collapse of the U.S. housing market was tied along
with increased housing speculation and subprime lending in
the preceding years.
256. Tolerant of
Construction: Correct:
tolerant of + noun The longer we remain tolerant of corruption in politics, the
bigger the problem will become.
Incorrect:
The longer we remain tolerant about corruption in politics, the
bigger the problem will become.
The longer we remain tolerant to corruption in politics, the
bigger the problem will become.
The longer we remain tolerant at corruption in politics, the
bigger the problem will become.
257. Transmit to
Construction: Correct:
transmit X to Y Cellular phones transmit radio waves to cell towers.
Incorrect:
Cellular phones transmit radio waves at cell towers
Cellular phones transmit radio waves into cell towers.
258. Type of
Construction: Correct:
type of + noun With so many different types of cereal available, consumers
often have trouble making healthful choices.
Incorrect:
With so many different types in cereal available, consumers
often have trouble making healthful choices.
With so many different types for cereal available, consumers
often have trouble making healthful choices.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
259. Use as
Construction: Correct:
use X as Y;
Rose used the broken door as a life raft and floated to safety.
use as + noun
Incorrect:
Rose used the broken door to be a life raft and floated
to safety.
260. Used to
Construction: Correct:
used to + noun/gerund
If you’re not used to working long hours, you’ll find this job
used to + base verb
difficult; I know because I used to be in your position.
Incorrect:
If you’re not use to working long hours, you’ll find this job
difficult; I know because I use to be in your position.
261. In violation of
Construction: Correct:
in violation of + noun In violation of the ceasefire, soldiers stationed along the border
launched an incursion into a nearby village.
Incorrect:
By violation of the ceasefire, soldiers stationed along the
border launched an incursion into a nearby village.
Incorrect:
A common concern in the United States is that voting a
third-party candidate is tantamount to wasting one’s vote.
GMAT® Idioms Master List
Incorrect:
The best way in regards to fighting racism is to increase
education and understanding.
265. Willing/unwilling to
Construction: Correct:
willing/unwilling to + base verb The company was willing to take steps to ensure worker safety.
Incorrect:
The company was willing about taking steps to ensure
worker safety.
Incorrect:
The study found that many students worry excessively over
fitting in.
The study found that many students worry excessively on
fitting in.