Question

Match the meanings with the words/expressions in italics, and write the appropriate meaning next to the sentence. The first one has been done for you.
1. I knew a man was following me, I was scared out of my wits. (very frightened)
2. I got a fright when I realised how close I was to the cliff edge.
3. He nearly jumped out of his skin when he saw the bull coming towards him.
4. You really gave me a fright when you crept up behind me like that.
5. Wait until I tell his story — it will make your hair stand on end.
6. Paralysed with fear, the boy faced his abductors.
7. The boy hid behind the door, not moving a muscle

Answer 1

1. I knew a man was following me, I was scared out of my wits.

Meaning: very frightened

2. I got a fright when I realised how close I was to the cliff edge.

Meaning: a sudden feeling of fear

3. He nearly jumped out of his skin when he saw the bull coming towards him.

Meaning: very startled or frightened

4. You really gave me a fright when you crept up behind me like that.

Meaning: scared suddenly

5. Wait until I tell his story — it will make your hair stand on end.

Meaning: to cause fear or horror

6. Paralysed with fear, the boy faced his abductors.

Meaning: unable to move because of fear

7. The boy hid behind the door, not moving a muscle.

Meaning: completely still, as if frozen