I thought since 'idle mind is the devil's workshop', idle thoughts would be...

[Priya Raghavan]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #332 "English Slang Idioms (53)", question 5

"I hope Paul finds a job this summer. It will keep him out of trouble. You know what they say -- idle ......... are the devil's work," Millie said to Ian.

(a) thoughts
(b) speeches
(c) hands
(d) friends

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #332 "English Slang Idioms (53)", answer 5

"I hope Paul finds a job this summer. It will keep him out of trouble. You know what they say -- idle hands are the devil's work," Millie said to Ian.

Correct answer: (c) hands
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I thought since 'idle mind is the devil's workshop', idle thoughts would be suitable here.

Priya Raghavan

[Linda]

Hi Priya,
Your reasoning makes logical sense but the saying - in this case - is "idle hands." The logic is that if you don't have anything to do (if you aren't productive/working), you're more likely to get into trouble.
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