IDIOMS I

The Word's The Thing

Dr. Louis D. Appel

Each clue below leads to an idiomatic expression having to do with the foot, toes, or shoes. For example, to understand another's problems, you would have to "walk a mile in their shoes."

1. Be alert

2. Be independent 

3. Be very close to death

4.Get firm about something

5. Make a good impression

6. Obey the rules and policies

7. Make a first step toward a goal

8. Situation or circumstance are reversed

9. Say something tactless or embarrassing

10. Feel very unsure about a decision (especially marriage)

11. Upset or offend someone, especially by interfering in an area of their responsibility

12. If something is said or suggested about a person and it's true, the person should accept it as true

Answers:

 

1. Keep (stay) on your toes

2. Stand on your own two feet

3. Have one foot in the grave

4. Put your foot down

5. Put your best foot forward

6. Toe the line

7. Get your foot in the door

8. The shoe's on the other foot

9. Put your foot in your mouth

10. Get (have) cold feet

11. Step on someone's toes

12. If the shoe fits, wear it