Basic Details
Word: Behest
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A command or a request made by someone in authority.
Synonyms: Order, command, directive
Antonyms: Request, suggestion
Idioms and Phrases
- At someone's behest: Doing something because someone has asked or instructed you to do so. Example: "She started the project at the manager's behest."
- Behest of fate: When something happens due to destiny or chance rather than by choice. Example: "He found himself in a new city at the behest of fate after losing his job."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The soldiers marched at the king's behest, ready to protect their kingdom.
Example 2: At the teacher's behest, the students researched the topic for their presentation.
Example 3: The changes in the schedule were made at the behest of parents who wanted more family time.
Fun Fact
The word "behest" originates from the Old English term "behest," which means to command or bid, showing its long history of usage in the English language.
Famous Quote
"I do not profess to be a great scholar, but I am a man who does not do anything at the behest of anyone else." - John J. Pershing
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "behest" mean?
a) A casual suggestion
b) A command or request
c) A type of food
d) A form of greeting
Answer: b) A command or request
2. Which of these words is a synonym of "behest"?
a) Suggestion
b) Request
c) Command
d) Opinion
Answer: c) Command
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "behest"?
a) Directive
b) Order
c) Suggestion
d) Command
Answer: c) Suggestion
4. Which sentence uses "behest" correctly?
a) I sat at home at the behest of my friends.
b) The painting was finished at the behest of the artist.
c) The puppy was happy at the behest of his new home.
d) She danced at the behest of the music.
Answer: a) I sat at home at the behest of my friends.
5. Which idiom mentions the word "behest"?
a) At someone's behest
b) Come at a cost
c) In the nick of time
d) Under the weather
Answer: a) At someone's behest
