Idioms - Court Interpreters Exam Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

Idioms - Court Interpreters Exam Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified What does the idiom “hold your tongue” mean in a courtroom setting? Remain silent and do not speak out of turn What is meant by the phrase “the letter of the law”? The exact wording and strict interpretation of a legal rule What does “to take the stand” refer to in court? To testify as a witness What does “beat around the bush” mean when giving testimony? Avoid giving a direct answer What does it mean if someone “has a chip on their shoulder” in a legal proceeding? They are easily angered or looking for a conflict 2 What is meant by “open and shut case”? A case with clear evidence and an obvious outcome What does it mean to “tip the scales of justice”? To influence the outcome unfairly What does “in hot water” mean in a courtroom context? In serious trouble or legal difficulty What does the idiom “on the record” mean during a trial? Officially documented as part of court proceedings What does “get off scot-free” mean after a verdict? Escape punishment completely What does it mean if someone is “under the table” in a legal setting? Something is done secretly or illegally, often involving bribery 3 What does “throw the book at someone” mean? To punish someone severely using all possible charges What does “to have a skeleton in the closet” imply during a deposition? To hide a potentially damaging secret What is meant by “bending the truth” while under oath? Slightly distorting facts without outright lying What does the idiom “above the law” mean? Acting as if not subject to the rules or legal consequences What does it mean when a lawyer “plays devil’s advocate”? Argues the opposing side to test the argument or reveal flaws What does “sweep it under the rug” mean in court proceedings? To try to hide or ignore something problematic 4 What does “cut and dry” mean regarding a court ruling? Simple and straightforward with no ambiguity What does “cry wolf” mean when a witness is testifying? To raise a false alarm or make repeated, untrue claims What does it mean if a witness is said to be “on thin ice”?