Common Idioms for IELTS Word Play One’s Ace

There are numerous idioms used in English daily, whether in a business context, in media, or in social conversations between friends. This IELTS idiom sample - Common idioms for IELTS Play One’s Ace contains various complex words and phrases helpful for IELTS preparation. In order to answer IELTS speaking and reading sections, the candidates must learn different types of idioms used in IELTS. This particular idiom will help you understand its literal meaning and how you can use it in IELTS speaking.

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Topic: Common Idioms for IELTS Word Play One’s Ace

Meaning: to use one's best weapon or resource, doing something smart and unexpected which gives you an advantage over other people

Example: 1. At the end of the match, the captain played his ace by putting the most skillful player on the pitch.

2. The exercise had no answer anywhere so I played my ace and used a special app to get all the answers.

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Exercise:

1. Complete the following sentences by filling in the appropriate idioms.

went for broke         playing its ace       putting our cards on the table

rock-bottom           sweetened the deal

1. We’re_________________. We want to buy this company and put our own management team.
2. One of our competitors is ______________ to stage a hostile takeover of our company.
3. The company _________ after failing to find new investors.
4. The shops ___________ by giving a 10% discount on all items.
5. The $16 million amount for a house and lot in the center of the city is a _______ offer.

Answer 1: putting our cards on the table

Explanation: The idiom putting cards on the table refers to being completely honest about intentions. So here the idiom used means that they are being honest about their thoughts of buying the company.

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Answer 2: playing its ace

Explanation: This idiom means to use your best resources. In this sentence, the idiom is used to mention that the competitors were using their best strategies to take over their company.

Answer 3: went for broke

Explanation: Went for broke means to take the most extreme or risky action. In the above sentence, the idiom justifies that they failed to find new investors that is why they are going broke.

Answer 4: sweetened the deal

Explanation: This idiom refers to making something more attractive. In this sentence, it is stated that giving an additional 10% discount on all items to make the deal more attractive for the customers.

Answer 5: rock-bottom

Explanation: Rock-bottom is very lowest of something. The price mentioned in the sentence for the house is the lowest price for a house and lot in the center of the city.

2. Make sentences using the learned idiom and write it down in the comment box below

1. Sara played her ace card during the debate.
2. I think it’s time we play our ace to win this game.