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Business English Idioms Quiz: What’s the Missing Word?

Updated: Jun 7

Business English Idioms Quiz: Choose the correct word to complete the idiom. The sentence reads: "Missing the deadline for the third time was the last _____. I’ll have to report him." Multiple choice options are step, straw, nerve, and patience. A frustrated office worker is pictured holding a messy binder.
Business English Idioms Quiz: What’s the Missing Word? by REAL Business English

Welcome to the Business English Idioms Quiz!


Today’s Focus:


Common idioms for handling workplace frustration and tough decisions.


Today's Challenge:


You’ve been patient with someone who keeps messing up... but this time, it’s too much.


Which word best completes the sentence below?


Missing the deadline for the third time was the last _____. I'll have to report him.


A) step

B) straw

C) nerve

D) patience


Choose the correct option and listen to the sentence.




Did you get it right?


STRAW

noun, countable, uncountable

a single thin, dry stem of wheat or other grains; thin, dry stems of wheat or other grains used for making baskets, hats, animal bedding, etc.; a drinking tube


We need to find a more eco-friendly alternative to plastic straws in our company cafeteria.



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THE LAST STRAW

idiom

the final problem in a series of problems that makes someone lose patience or take action


The constant technical issues were frustrating, but when the system crashed during a client presentation, that was the last straw.


Our supplier increased prices again—after all the delays, this is the last straw. We need to find a new vendor.


I was already frustrated, but when she showed up late again, it was the last straw.


That email he sent to the client without telling anyone? Yeah, that was the last straw.


I can deal with delays, but losing the files was the last straw.



That's right. The correct answer is B) straw.



Learn More Business English Idioms to Talk About Frustration

Cacti and a doodle of a frustrated person on a blue background. Text: "Learn More Business English Idioms to Talk About Frustration."
Learn More Business English Idioms to Talk About Frustration by REAL Business English

Work can be stressful. Learn how native speakers express frustration in everyday business conversations. Take the quiz and see which phrases you already know—and which ones might surprise you!


Choose the word that best completes each sentence.


Scroll down to the answer key for the definitions.


You're on fire! Click the image below to try another quiz.

Business English vocabulary, learn Business English phrases, English for meetings, English for Business communication, a major bottleneck meaning

ANSWER KEY


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