Idioms and phrases carry figurative meanings that can completely change a sentence's message. In exams like SSC CGL, CHSL, and IBPS PO, idiom questions carry guaranteed high scoring marks if you know the most frequently repeated ones.
10 Essential Exam Idioms You Must Memorize
1. To call it a day
Meaning: To stop working on something for the day.
Example: We've solved 50 math problems, let's call it a day.
2. Once in a blue moon
Meaning: Happening very rarely.
Example: He visits his hometown once in a blue moon.
3. Bite the bullet
Meaning: Face a difficult situation with courage.
Example: You have to bite the bullet and apologize to the client.
4. Burn the midnight oil
Meaning: To work or study late into the night.
Example: Aspirants are burning the midnight oil for the upcoming mains exam.
5. At the eleventh hour
Meaning: At the last possible moment.
Example: The government altered the scheme rules at the eleventh hour.
Exam Strategy Tip
Never guess an idiom based purely on the literal meaning of its words. Always learn idioms grouped by themes: Time, Emotions, Animals, and Hardship.