Exercise 2: Other metaphors.

Look at sentences A, B, and C in the following groups, and look especially at the words and
expressions in bold. Then rearrange the letters in italics in the final sentence to make another word
or words. The final sentence should then explain what the metaphors in the first three sentences are
describing. Note that two of the final sentences use the same word. The first one has been done as
an example.
G
e
n
e
r
a
l

V
o
c
a
b
u
l
a
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13. The idea seemed good in theory, but __________ when practical tests were first carried out.
14. The new technology was revolutionary and __________, but was initially seen as a simple novelty.
15. His life's work was in __________, but it did not deter him from starting again.
16. I put forward several ideas, but to my anger and disappointment each one was comprehensively
__________ by the board.
17. His books were very popular because he had a __________ imagination and a talent for telling a
good story.
18. Nobody believed him at first, but a series of unexplained events meant that his ideas quickly
__________ and people were more prepared to listen to him.
19. Her ideas __________ her belief in the existence of life on other planets.
20. The discussion was very __________, and we all came away from it believing that at last we were
going to achieve something worthwhile.
1. (A) Your point of view is indefensible.
(B) There was a lot of conflict over what to do next.
(C) The team clashed over what steps to take next.
Metaphorically, an muntrage is like a fight or a war, with people attacking and defending.
(Answer = argument)
2. (A) She was one of the brightest students in the class.
(B) As a child, Einstein was believed to have a rather dull mind.
(C) She had a sudden flash of inspiration and began writing down her thoughts.
Metaphorically, ngeelcneilti is like a light. The more you have, the brighter the light is.
3. (A) I was wondering if I could rely on your support.
(B) Would you mind lending me a hand with my assignment?
(C) The government helped to prop up the college by offering it a financial grant.
Metaphorically, when you sitsas someone, it is like supporting them physically (for example, with your body).
4. (A) He is often regarded as the greatest writer of the twentieth century.
(B) Everyone agreed that there were some weighty issues to be discussed at the meeting.
(C) The novel received some good reviews, but many people thought it was rather lightweight.
Metaphorically, something that is taprmotni is like something that is big or heavy, and something that is
ntaprmotniu is small or light.
5. (A) They only succeeded by using their political muscle.
(B) She didn't have the backbone to accept his challenge.
(C) I know it's difficult, but you have to put your back into it if you want to succeed.
Metaphorically, making an trofef is like using a part of your body.
6. (A) You look confused: let me throw some light on the matter.
(B) Her work greatly illuminated this aspect of the subject.
(C) I don't want to be kept in the dark, so please let me know what is happening.