Basic Details
Word: Astride
Part of Speech: Preposition/Adverb
Meaning: Sitting or standing with a leg on each side of something; to straddle.
Synonyms: Straddling, on either side of
Antonyms: N/A
Idioms and Phrases
- Ride astride: To ride something, such as a horse, with one leg on each side. Example: "He preferred to ride astride his horse for better control during the race."
- Stand astride the line: To be in a position or situation that divides two aspects. Example: "She stood astride the line between work and play, making sure to balance both."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The cowboy sat astride his horse, ready to set off into the sunset.
Example 2: She stood astride the bike, feeling confident and prepared for the ride.
Example 3: The cat perched astride the fence, observing the birds in the garden.
Fun Fact
The word "astride" comes from the Old English term "en strdan," which means "to stride on." This reflects the action of stepping or straddling something both physically and metaphorically.
Famous Quote
"You cant stop the waves, but you can learn to ride them astride." Jon Kabat-Zinn
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "astride" mean?
a) Standing still
b) Sitting or standing with legs on either side
c) Jumping high
d) Running quickly
Answer: b) Sitting or standing with legs on either side
2. Which of these is a synonym of "astride"?
a) Alone
b) Straddling
c) Hiding
d) Climbing
Answer: b) Straddling
3. Which sentence uses "astride" correctly?
a) She stood astride the doorway, blocking anyone from entering.
b) The bird flew astride across the sky.
c) He ran astride the field after the ball.
d) The dog barked astride in the yard.
Answer: a) She stood astride the doorway, blocking anyone from entering.
4. Which idiom means "to ride with one leg on each side"?
a) Ride astride
b) Stand astride the line
c) Hold the reins
d) Jump through hoops
Answer: a) Ride astride
5. What is the opposite of "astride"?
a) N/A
b) Alone
c) Over
d) In the air
Answer: a) N/A
