Set expression 'sore throat'

[MadokaLiu]

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #57 "Chit Chat: At the pub", question 10

Deborah: Yes, that's right. He's not talking today because he's got a ......... throat.

(a) sick
(b) sore
(c) ill
(d) hurt

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #57 "Chit Chat: At the pub", answer 10

Deborah: Yes, that's right. He's not talking today because he's got a sore throat.

Correct answer: (b) sore

Your answer was: incorrect
Deborah: Yes, that's right. He's not talking today because he's got a sick throat.
_________________________

the 'sore throat' is a set expression?

Thank You

[Mister Micawber]

.
Yes, or somewhere between a set expression and a high collocation. We have sore throats and sore backs, or back pains, and stomachaches and toothaches, and shoulder pains and aches, and sore shoulders, etc.
.
_________________
Canadian-American native speaker
who teaches English for a living at Mister Micawber's
ESL cafe: Interview with Mr. Micawber