Basic Details
Word: Austere
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Simple and plain; not fancy or decorated; strict or severe in manner or appearance.
Synonyms: Stern, severe, strict
Antonyms: Lush, extravagant, flamboyant
Idioms and Phrases
- Dress austere: To dress simply without any adornment. Example: "He chose to dress austere for the meeting, wearing a plain shirt and trousers."
- Austere surroundings: An environment that is very simple and lacks comforts. Example: "The monks lived in austere surroundings, focusing on their spiritual practices without distractions."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The austere design of the building made it stand out against the more colourful ones nearby.
Example 2: Her austere attitude in class made the students feel they had to behave seriously.
Example 3: Despite the austere conditions of the journey, they remained determined to reach their destination.
Fun Fact
The word "austere" comes from the Latin word "austerus," which means "harsh" or "severe." It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century.
Famous Quote
"The world is not in the way we want it to be. It is austere and challenging, but that is part of what makes life meaningful." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "austere" mean?
a) Fancy and decorated
b) Simple and plain
c) Colourful and vibrant
d) Cheerful and bright
Answer: b) Simple and plain
2. Which of these is a synonym of "austere"?
a) Flamboyant
b) Stern
c) Luxurious
d) Colourful
Answer: b) Stern
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "austere"?
a) Very basic
b) Simple
c) Extravagant
d) Strict
Answer: c) Extravagant
4. Which sentence uses "austere" correctly?
a) The cake was austere and full of colours.
b) The king wore an austere crown with many jewels.
c) The teacher had an austere approach to discipline.
d) The garden was filled with austere flowers.
Answer: c) The teacher had an austere approach to discipline.
5. Which idiom describes a simple appearance?
a) Flamboyant style
b) Dress austere
c) Living lavishly
d) In the lap of luxury
Answer: b) Dress austere
