Word: Bête noire
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A person or thing that someone dislikes very much.
Synonyms: Detestation, aversion, bugbear
Antonyms: Favourite, beloved, darling
Example 1: Mathematics was his bête noire, as he never managed to understand it well during school.
Example 2: For many children, broccoli can be the bête noire of their diet.
Example 3: The new policy introduced in the company became the bête noire for employees, causing widespread dissatisfaction.
The term "bête noire" is French, literally meaning "black beast." It originally described a black animal that was particularly loathed or dreaded, and has since evolved to refer to anything one despises.
"The only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about." Oscar Wilde
1. What does "bête noire" mean?
a) A favourite thing
b) A person or thing that is greatly disliked
c) A popular movie
d) A type of food
Answer: b) A person or thing that is greatly disliked
2. Which of these is a synonym of "bête noire"?
a) Loved one
b) Bugbear
c) Friend
d) Companion
Answer: b) Bugbear
3. Which sentence uses "bête noire" correctly?
a) She was the bête noire of the soccer team for scoring well.
b) Math was always her bête noire, making exams difficult for her.
c) The garden was his bête noire, as he loved flowers.
d) Music was his bête noire, especially when it was soothing.
Answer: b) Math was always her bête noire, making exams difficult for her.
4. What does it mean to "face your bête noire"?
a) To ignore your problems
b) To confront something you dislike or fear
c) To celebrate your favourite moments
d) To find joy in all activities
Answer: b) To confront something you dislike or fear
5. What is the opposite of "bête noire"?
a) Foe
b) Aversion
c) Favourite
d) Misfortune
Answer: c) Favourite
The CREST International Spell Bee (CSB) is conducted in two editions – CREST International Spell Bee - Summer (CSB) and CREST International Spell Bee - Winter (CSBW) – giving students across the globe an opportunity to showcase and enhance their spelling proficiency. Designed for young learners from Grades 1 to 8, the competition focuses on word-building, pronunciation, and vocabulary enrichment, helping students develop strong linguistic skills.
Step 1: Visit the registration page and complete the registration with your desired subject.
Step 2: After Registration done, do login at www.crestolympiads.com/login.
Step 3: After login, got to dashboard and click on Book slot/Take Exam
Step 4: Schedule your exam date and preferred time.
Step 5: Log in with your credentials on the exam day at the scheduled time and take the exam.