Basic Details
Word: Baneful
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Causing harm or destruction; very harmful.
Synonyms: Detrimental, harmful, damaging
Antonyms: Beneficial, helpful, good
Idioms and Phrases
- Baneful influence: A harmful effect or influence. Example: "The baneful influence of pollution is affecting the health of many cities."
- Turn a blind eye to baneful practices: To ignore harmful activities. Example: "We should not turn a blind eye to baneful practices that harm the environment."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Smoking has a baneful effect on a person's health, leading to serious diseases.
Example 2: The baneful effects of the chemical spill were evident in the dying fish and plants.
Example 3: She warned her friends about the baneful habits that could ruin their futures.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "baneful" originates from the Old English word "ban," which means "deadly"? This reflects its strong connotation of causing harm or destruction throughout history.
Famous Quote
"Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance." - George Bernard Shaw. This reflects the idea that sometimes the harm comes not from what we dont know, but from what we think we know incorrectly, which can be baneful.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "baneful" mean?
a) Helpful
b) Causing harm
c) Funny
d) Beautiful
Answer: b) Causing harm
2. Which of these is a synonym of "baneful"?
a) Beneficial
b) Detrimental
c) Amusing
d) Joyful
Answer: b) Detrimental
3. Which word is an antonym of "baneful"?
a) Harmful
b) Dangerous
c) Beneficial
d) Destructive
Answer: c) Beneficial
4. Which sentence uses "baneful" correctly?
a) The baneful wind blew softly on the fields.
b) He enjoyed the baneful movie with laughter.
c) The baneful pesticides harmed the bees.
d) She sang a baneful song.
Answer: c) The baneful pesticides harmed the bees.
5. Which idiom relates to "baneful"?
a) Baneful influence
b) The early bird catches the worm
c) A penny saved is a penny earned
d) All good things come to those who wait
Answer: a) Baneful influence
