You couldn't get a cigarette paper in between them?

[Nenad11]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #320 "English Slang Idioms (41)", question 4

The two girls were so close you couldn't get a cigarette ......... in between them.

(a) paper
(b) butt
(c) label
(d) pack

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #320 "English Slang Idioms (41)", answer 4

The two girls were so close you couldn't get a cigarette paper in between them.

Correct answer: (a) paper

Your answer was: incorrect
The two girls were so close you couldn't get a cigarette butt in between them.
_________________________

Does it mean that the two girls are (almost) neck and neck ?

[Beeesneees]

If it is a race, it does.

It can also mean that they are side by side, back to back, or facing each other with their noses just about touching!

Whichever way they are facing, they are very close together.
_________________
"Inside every old person is a young person wondering what happened."
Terry Pratchett

[Kati Svaby]

Hi,

It is worth reading this explication also.

If you cannot get or put a cigarette paper between people, they are so closely bonded that nothing will separate them or their positions on issues./UsingEnglish/

Kati Svaby
_________________
Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend.

[Kietsjsu]

Hi,

Does this Idom describe two girls who are physically close together ? Or are they close in personality which means they get along well with each other? Thanks
Phuong-chi

[Beeesneees]

The idiom does not necessarily refer to two girls (or even to people).
It could equally be used to describe a choice between anything else.
It does not refer to physical proximity, but to the choice between them for a certain purpose.
_________________
"Inside every old person is a young person wondering what happened."
Terry Pratchett

[Kati Svaby]

Hello,

Cigarette paper is a very thin of paper in which people roll tobacco to make their own cigarette.
Because of its thinness is written in this test.

UsingEnglish: If you cannot get or put a cigarette paper between people, they are so closely bonded that nothing will separate them or their positions on issues.

Kati svaby
_________________
Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend.