Idiom: a drop in the bucket

[Rupert]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #339 "English Slang Idioms (60)", question 1

"The kid's birthday present was a drop in the ......... compared to how much his tuition, car, and books cost," Greg told Alex.

(a) well
(b) coffer
(c) market
(d) bucket

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #339 "English Slang Idioms (60)", answer 1

"The kid's birthday present was a drop in the bucket compared to how much his tuition, car, and books cost," Greg told Alex.

Correct answer: (d) bucket
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what is the corect answer ?
please explan for me
Rupert

[Linda]

A drop in the bucket (d) is the right answer. This is a common phrase - an idiom.
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[Alan]

Hi Linda,

'Drop in the bucket' is new to me and thus interesting also. I know 'drop in the ocean'. Is that used in your local patch?

Alan
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[Nenad11]

Does a drop in the bucket mean a trifle?

[Linda]

Hi,
A drop in the bucket means a small portion of a bigger amount/the whole - and it's used in North America.
I think 'drop in the ocean' is used in the States and in Canada but less often, Alan.
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