The manager hit the roof when he was presented with the estimate for the new project. This means that the…

Step 1: Analyze the question The sentence uses an idiom: "hit the roof." We are asked what it means when the manager "hit the roof" after seeing the estimate (the projected cost) of the new project.

Step 2: Explain the concept An idiom is a group of words whose meaning is different from the literal meaning of the individual words. The manager did not literally strike a roof. "Hit the roof" (also "go through the roof" or "hit the ceiling") means to become extremely angry, usually suddenly and loudly.

Step 3: Work through the options

• A. mobilised the workers: nothing in the idiom suggests organising people for work. Wrong.
• B. became very angry: this matches the idiom exactly. A high or unexpected cost estimate is a natural reason for someone to become furious. Correct.
• C. became very suspicious: suspicion is about doubting or distrusting, which is not what the idiom expresses. Wrong.
• D. cancelled the project: he may or may not have done this afterwards, but the idiom describes his emotional reaction, not a decision. Wrong.

Step 4: Answer The manager became very angry, which is option B.

Exam tip: Related idioms for anger are often tested: hit the roof, hit the ceiling, blow a fuse, see red, flip one's lid. When you meet an idiom, ignore the literal picture and ask, "What feeling or action does this usually express?" Then use the context (here, a shocking estimate) to confirm.