Decisions, decisions.
Ten expressions for the moment before you choose.
Ten questions, with the answers explained. Try them in your head, then open each answer when you're ready.
Play this quiz →QUESTION 1 / 10
In everyday English, what does "on the fence" mean?
- Undecided
- Asleep
- Certain
- Angry
Show answer & explanation+
Undecided
Someone on the fence has not committed to either side.
QUESTION 2 / 10
In everyday English, what does "take it with a grain of salt" mean?
- Season your food
- Forget it instantly
- Treat it with some skepticism
- Believe every detail
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Treat it with some skepticism
You do not have to reject the claim, but you should not accept it uncritically.
QUESTION 3 / 10
In everyday English, what does "sleep on it" mean?
- Delay a decision until after some rest
- Take a nap on a book
- Decide immediately
- Hide the evidence
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Delay a decision until after some rest
Sleeping on a decision gives you time to think before committing.
QUESTION 4 / 10
In everyday English, what does "the ball is in your court" mean?
- You have already lost
- The plan is canceled
- It is your turn to act
- You must play tennis
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It is your turn to act
The next move or decision is now yours.
QUESTION 5 / 10
In everyday English, what does "keep your options open" mean?
- Tell everyone a secret
- Avoid committing too early
- Choose the most expensive thing
- Refuse every offer
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Avoid committing too early
Keeping options open preserves more than one possible route.
QUESTION 6 / 10
In everyday English, what does "go out on a limb" mean?
- Stay completely safe
- Take a risk with a claim or action
- Agree with everyone
- Climb a tree only
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Take a risk with a claim or action
Going out on a limb involves a position that could leave you exposed if wrong.
QUESTION 7 / 10
In everyday English, what does "read between the lines" mean?
- Skip alternate sentences
- Notice an implied meaning
- Read only headings
- Count the letters
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Notice an implied meaning
The words may suggest something they do not explicitly state.
QUESTION 8 / 10
In everyday English, what does "weigh your options" mean?
- Guess a person's weight
- Choose randomly
- Compare possible choices
- Measure a suitcase
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Compare possible choices
Weighing options means considering their relative benefits and drawbacks.
QUESTION 9 / 10
In everyday English, what does "take the plunge" mean?
- Avoid all change
- Ask for directions
- Quit halfway
- Commit to a bold step
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Commit to a bold step
Taking the plunge means finally doing something you have been hesitant about.
QUESTION 10 / 10
In everyday English, what does "cross that bridge when you come to it" mean?
- Choose a longer commute
- Never make a plan
- Deal with a problem if or when it arises
- Solve everything immediately
Show answer & explanation+
Deal with a problem if or when it arises
The phrase puts off a possible future problem until it actually needs attention.