Let's solve the
idioms matching worksheet step by step.
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Task:
Match each idiom on the left with its correct meaning on the right.
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Step 1: Understand what an idiom is.
An
idiom is a phrase that has a meaning different from the literal interpretation of the words. For example, "kick the bucket" doesn't mean to literally kick a bucket — it means "to die."
We need to match each idiom with its correct figurative meaning.
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Step 2: Analyze each idiom and match it to the correct definition.
#### 1.
Back to square one
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Literal meaning: Going back to the starting point in a game.
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Figurative meaning: Having to start all over again.
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✔ Match:
Having to start all over again
#### 2.
Every cloud has a silver lining
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Meaning: Even in difficult situations, there is some good or hope.
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✔ Match:
To be optimistic, even difficult times will lead to better days
#### 3.
A drop in the bucket
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Meaning: A very small amount compared to what is needed.
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✔ Match:
A very small part of something big or whole
#### 4.
Lend me your ear
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Meaning: To give someone your attention; listen carefully.
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✔ Match:
To politely ask for someone’s full attention
#### 5.
Get down to brass tacks
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Meaning: To get to the essential facts or serious discussion.
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✔ Match:
To become serious about something
#### 6.
It's a small world
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Meaning: The world feels smaller because people keep meeting others they know from far away.
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✔ Match:
You frequently see the same people in different places
#### 7.
Crack someone up
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Meaning: Make someone laugh hard.
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✔ Match:
To make someone laugh
#### 8.
Have an axe to grind
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Meaning: Have a personal grievance or agenda.
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✔ Match:
To have a dispute with someone
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Final Matching:
| Idiom | Meaning |
|-------------------------------|--------|
| Back to square one | Having to start all over again |
| Every cloud has a silver lining | To be optimistic, even difficult times will lead to better days |
| A drop in the bucket | A very small part of something big or whole |
| Lend me your ear | To politely ask for someone’s full attention |
| Get down to brass tacks | To become serious about something |
| It's a small world | You frequently see the same people in different places |
| Crack someone up | To make someone laugh |
| Have an axe to grind | To have a dispute with someone |
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✔ All idioms are correctly matched!
This worksheet helps students understand that idioms are not meant to be taken literally, but instead carry symbolic or cultural meanings.
Let me know if you'd like this turned into a printable answer key or explanation for kids!
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of idiom worksheet for 6th grade.
