Basic Details
Word: Bleak
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Lacking warmth, cheer, or hope; cold and desolate.
Synonyms: Dreary, grim, desolate
Antonyms: Bright, cheerful, sunny
Idioms and Phrases
- Bleak outlook: A situation that looks hopeless or not promising. Example: "Despite the team's effort, the bleak outlook for the season worried the fans."
- Bleak as a winter's day: Describing something very cold or unfriendly. Example: "The garden looked as bleak as a winter's day, with frost covering everything."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The view from the top of the mountain was bleak, with grey skies and no signs of life.
Example 2: After the storm, the landscape appeared bleak, stripped of its vibrant colours.
Example 3: The film's ending was bleak, leaving the audience feeling sad and reflective.
Fun Fact
The word "bleak" originates from the Old Norse word "bleikr," which means "pale" or "white." It was used to describe cold, harsh weather conditions and has evolved to denote emotional desolation.
Famous Quote
"The world is a bleak place, but we must not forget to find the warmth of hope within it." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "bleak" mean?
a) Warm and cheerful
b) Cold and desolate
c) Bright and vivid
d) Joyful and friendly
Answer: b) Cold and desolate
2. Which of these is a synonym of "bleak"?
a) Joyful
b) Dreary
c) Lively
d) Vibrant
Answer: b) Dreary
3. What is the opposite of "bleak"?
a) Sad
b) Cheerful
c) Gloomy
d) Dark
Answer: b) Cheerful
4. Which sentence uses "bleak" correctly?
a) The sun was shining, and it felt quite bleak outside.
b) It was a bleak day with dark clouds and cold winds.
c) The party was bleak and full of laughter.
d) He painted a bleak picture of the scenery around us.
Answer: b) It was a bleak day with dark clouds and cold winds.
5. What does "bleak outlook" mean?
a) A cheerful and positive situation
b) A hopeless or unpromising situation
c) A bright and sunny forecast
d) A fun and exciting adventure
Answer: b) A hopeless or unpromising situation
