The Idioms & Phrases topic is an important component of the English section in NDA and CDS examinations. It evaluates a candidate’s ability to understand figurative expressions and apply their correct meanings in context. Unlike direct vocabulary questions, idioms cannot be interpreted literally; they require familiarity with their established meanings.
The English Live Class for NDA & CDS 1 2026 – Live Batch 2 focused on strengthening students’ understanding of commonly asked idioms and phrases and training them to solve multiple choice questions (MCQs) accurately.
Objective of the Live Class
The main objectives of this session were to:
- Familiarise students with frequently asked idioms and phrases
- Improve understanding of figurative meanings
- Teach strategies to eliminate incorrect options
- Practise exam-oriented MCQs
- Enhance confidence in handling tricky expressions
The class emphasised learning idioms through meaning and usage, not word-by-word translation.
Understanding Idioms & Phrases Questions in NDA & CDS
In the exam, these questions typically follow this pattern:
- An idiom or phrase is given
- Four options provide possible meanings
- Candidates must choose the correct figurative meaning
The challenge lies in recognising that the meaning of an idiom is often different from the literal meaning of its words.
Nature of Idioms Asked in Defence Exams
The idioms tested in NDA & CDS exams are usually:
- Commonly used in everyday English
- Related to personality traits, situations, emotions, or actions
- Frequently repeated in previous years’ papers
They are generally moderate in difficulty but require regular revision and familiarity.
Approach Taught in the Live Class
Students were trained to follow a systematic approach:
A. Avoid Literal Interpretation
Understand that idioms have fixed figurative meanings.
B. Recall Usage Context
Think about how the phrase is commonly used in sentences.
C. Eliminate Illogical Options
Remove options that:
- Reflect literal meanings
- Are unrelated to the expression
- Sound similar but do not match the meaning
D. Choose the Most Accurate Meaning
Select the option that best captures the core idea of the idiom.
Importance of Vocabulary Knowledge
Strong vocabulary helps in:
- Understanding the figurative sense of expressions
- Recognising similar idioms
- Avoiding confusion between closely related phrases
Reading newspapers, articles, and books regularly enhances familiarity with idiomatic usage.
Common Mistakes Highlighted
The session addressed frequent errors such as:
- Interpreting idioms word by word
- Choosing options based on partial similarity
- Confusing similar-sounding phrases
- Guessing without knowing the established meaning
Students were encouraged to focus on learning standard meanings and usage patterns.
Strategies for Scoring High in Idioms & Phrases
✔ Maintain a list of commonly asked idioms
✔ Revise regularly before exams
✔ Learn idioms with example sentences
✔ Practise elimination technique in MCQs
✔ Read quality English content daily
Consistent exposure improves recognition and retention.
Why Idioms & Phrases Is a Scoring Topic
This topic is considered scoring because:
- Questions are direct
- No complex grammar analysis required
- Familiarity ensures quick answers
- Regular practice significantly improves accuracy
Mastery of idioms also strengthens overall language proficiency.
Conclusion
The Idioms & Phrases Live Class for NDA & CDS 1 2026 – Live Batch 2 equipped aspirants with the necessary vocabulary skills and strategies to confidently solve idiom-based MCQs. By focusing on figurative meaning, elimination techniques, and consistent revision, students were prepared to approach this topic systematically.
With disciplined practice and regular reading, Idioms & Phrases can become a dependable scoring area in the English section of NDA & CDS examinations.
