Basic Details
Word: Baneful
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Causing harm, ruin, or death; harmful or destructive.
Synonyms: Harmful, deadly, destructive, injurious, pernicious
Antonyms: Beneficial, helpful, harmless, advantageous
Idioms and Phrases
- Baneful influence: A harmful effect or power. Example: "His constant criticism had a baneful influence on her confidence."
- Baneful consequence: A destructive or harmful outcome. Example: "Ignoring health issues can lead to baneful consequences."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The baneful effects of pollution are visible in the dying marine life.
Example 2: Greed can have a baneful impact on personal relationships.
Example 3: The villain in the story cast a baneful spell on the entire kingdom.
Fun Fact
The word "baneful" comes from the Middle English word *baneful*, meaning poisonous or ruinous, and is related to the word *bane*, which once meant "slayer" or "poison." It has been used in literature for centuries to describe fatal or disastrous situations.
Famous Quote
"Luxury is a baneful poison to a people." Napoleon Bonaparte
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "baneful" mean?
a) Beautiful and elegant
b) Causing harm or ruin
c) Full of joy
d) A helpful action
Answer: b) Causing harm or ruin
2. Which of these is a synonym of "baneful"?
a) Harmless
b) Constructive
c) Harmful
d) Supportive
Answer: c) Harmful
3. Which is an antonym of "baneful"?
a) Deadly
b) Beneficial
c) Injurious
d) Destructive
Answer: b) Beneficial
4. Which sentence uses "baneful" correctly?
a) Her laughter was baneful and cheerful.
b) The medicine had a baneful effect, improving his health.
c) The dictator's rule had a baneful effect on the country.
d) Baneful means something funny and light.
Answer: c) The dictator's rule had a baneful effect on the country.
5. What does the phrase "baneful influence" suggest?
a) A very positive motivation
b) An inspiring role model
c) A harmful or negative impact
d) A kind and caring mentor
Answer: c) A harmful or negative impact
