Complete the Expression
Finish well-known sayings, proverbs, and idioms.
What is Complete the Expression?
These questions give you a well-known English expression, saying, or proverb with a missing word. You need to identify the correct word to complete it. Knowing common English expressions is key to answering these questions.
For example: “A stitch in time saves ___.” The answer is “nine”. These questions reward wide reading and familiarity with the English language.
Step-by-Step Method
Read the expression
Look at the words given and try to recognise the saying. Think about where you might have heard it before.
Recall the full version
Try to remember how the complete expression goes. Say it in your head or under your breath.
Check with the options
If options are given, see which one matches the expression you recalled.
Use logic if unsure
If you do not recognise the expression, think about what word would make the most sense given the rhythm and meaning.
Worked Examples
Complete the expression: “Every cloud has a silver ___.”
Working
- This is a well-known saying meaning something good comes from bad situations.
- The full expression is “Every cloud has a silver lining.”
Complete the expression: “Actions speak louder than ___.”
Working
- This saying means what you do matters more than what you say.
- The full expression is “Actions speak louder than words.”
Complete the expression: “The early bird catches the ___.”
Working
- This saying encourages getting up early or acting quickly.
- The full expression is “The early bird catches the worm.”
Common Mistakes
Guessing a word that fits the sentence grammatically but is not part of the actual expression.
These are fixed phrases – there is only one correct word. You need to know the expression or recognise it.
Confusing similar expressions and mixing up the endings.
Be precise. “A stitch in time saves nine” not “saves time”. Learn each expression exactly as it is.
Top Tips
- Read books, poems, and stories – this is the best way to learn common expressions.
- Ask family members about sayings they use – many expressions are passed down through conversation.
- Keep a notebook of expressions you learn. Write the meaning next to each one.
- If you do not know an expression, try to work out the meaning from the words you can see and choose the most logical ending.
- Common expression topics: animals (the early bird, a bird in the hand), numbers (a stitch in time), weather (every cloud), and food (too many cooks).
Ready to practise?
Put these techniques into action with our free practice papers.
Practise Verbal Reasoning Questions