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Questions and Answers
What does the idiom 'Kick the bucket' mean?
Which idiom is associated with facing a difficult situation or enduring hardship?
What does the phrase 'Cost an arm and a leg' imply?
Which of the following expressions suggests good luck in a theatre setting?
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What does the idiom 'Piece of cake' signify?
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What is the primary focus of cost accounting?
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What distinguishes managerial accounting from financial accounting?
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Which accounting branch is responsible for minimizing tax liability while adhering to the law?
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What is the main goal of auditing in an organization?
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Which accounting method involves allocating costs to specific products or services?
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Study Notes
English Idioms
Idioms are colorful, figurative expressions that enrich our language with unique and memorable phrases. As you navigate the sea of English idioms, let's dive into five popular expressions that are worth exploring: kick the bucket, cost an arm and a leg, piece of cake, break a leg, and bite the bullet.
Kick the Bucket
This idiom means to die. It originated from the 16th century, when people hung buckets from rafters to collect water or other liquids. If a person fell and kicked the bucket, it would tip over and spill its contents, symbolizing the final end of life.
Example: After trying to battle his illness for many years, he finally kicked the bucket at the age of 67.
Cost an Arm and a Leg
This idiom means that something is very expensive or too expensive. It originated from the Middle Ages, when criminals were punished by losing their right hands and left feet. The phrase is often used ironically, as if to say, "I wish it only cost an arm and a leg."
Example: The brand new car cost an arm and a leg, but it was just what she dreamed of.
Piece of Cake
This idiom means that something is easy to do. It originated from the early 20th century, when cake was a popular dessert during celebrations. The phrase implies that the task is as easy as cutting a piece of cake.
Example: She found her new job a piece of cake because she was so skilled in her field.
Break a Leg
This idiom means to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance. It originated from the early 20th century, when actors believed that wishing someone good luck might jinx them. Break a leg, as it's better to break a leg (acting) than to experience an actual leg break.
Example: Before going on stage, the actors heard their crew shouting, "Break a leg!"
Bite the Bullet
This idiom means to face a difficult situation or to endure hardship. It originated from the 18th century, when soldiers had to bite on a bullet to prevent pain from a medical procedure. The phrase suggests that facing hardship is as unpleasant as biting a bullet.
Example: She was hesitant to quit her job, but in the end, she decided to bite the bullet and move on to new opportunities.
These idioms bring richness and playfulness to the English language, as they often reveal the history and culture behind these unique expressions. By incorporating these expressions into your daily conversations, you'll add a touch of color to your language and enrich your conversations with others.
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Description
Dive into the fascinating world of English idioms with this quiz covering popular expressions like 'kick the bucket,' 'cost an arm and a leg,' 'piece of cake,' 'break a leg,' and 'bite the bullet.' Learn about the origins and meanings of these colorful phrases while testing your knowledge.
