Metaphors and idioms

I.Replace the phrase in italics in each sentence with the appropriate metaphor or idiom.

a) be in floods of tears                

b) be the root of                          

c) have a few hiccups                  

d) scar you for life                      

e) come to you in a flash                      

f) reach a crossroads in life                  

g) point the finger at

h) go round in circles

i). follow in someone’s footsteps

j) break someone’s heart

k) be overshadowed by

l) not have the foggiest idea

1. A lot of people put the blame on television as the main cause of violent behaviour in children.

2. We might have a few small problems when the computer system is first installed, but it will soon be running smoothly.

3. Being bullied at school can cause you permanent psychological damage.

4. Soon you'll have to make a decision that will affect the rest of your life.

5. How can money be the fundamental cause of all evil? It is wonderful stuff'

6. I don't want to discuss this any more. We could make no progress at all for hours.

7. How can you not know at all when her birthday is? You've been her best friend for years!

8. It can really cause someone severe emotional pain when a lover decides to end the relationship.

9. You can spend ages trying to solve the last clue in the crossword, and then it will suddenly occur to you.

10. She will often cry a lot for no apparent reason.

11. The Formula 1 driver, Ralf Schumacher, must find it difficult to appear inferior in comparison to his older, more successful brother, Michael.
12 .I did what my mother did and became a teacher.

--> Key

1 - g)

2 - c)

3 - d)

4 - f)

5 - b)

6 - h)

7 - l)

8 - j)

9 - e)

10 - a)

11 - k)

12 - i)