Basic Details
Word: Brainwash
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To force someone to change their beliefs or opinions using intense pressure or manipulation.
Synonyms: Indoctrinate, Persuade, Coerce
Antonyms: Enlighten, Free, Liberate
Idioms and Phrases
- Brainwash the masses: To influence many people to accept the same ideas without questioning them. Example: "The advertising campaign was designed to brainwash the masses into buying the new product."
- Wash someone's brain: To manipulate someone's thoughts or beliefs. Example: "The political group tried to wash his brain by presenting only their views."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The cult was known for its ability to brainwash new members into adopting extreme beliefs.
Example 2: She felt that the constant exposure to propaganda was an attempt to brainwash the public.
Example 3: He realised that it was important to critically analyse information to avoid being brainwashed.
Fun Fact
The term "brainwash" originated during the Korean War, where it was used to describe the techniques used to manipulate and control prisoners of war. The word combines "brain" with "wash," suggesting the cleaning of thoughts and beliefs.
Famous Quote
"The man who thinks he knows something knows nothing. He should spend some time to brainwash himself from his wrong beliefs." Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "brainwash" mean?
a) To teach someone how to think
b) To change someone's beliefs through pressure
c) To clean a brain
d) To make someone forget
Answer: b) To change someone's beliefs through pressure
2. Which of these is a synonym of "brainwash"?
a) Free
b) Enlighten
c) Indoctrinate
d) Liberate
Answer: c) Indoctrinate
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "brainwash"?
a) Coerce
b) Persuade
c) Free
d) Manipulate
Answer: c) Free
4. Which sentence uses "brainwash" correctly?
a) The teacher brainwashed the students with new knowledge.
b) They tried to brainwash him into believing their ideas.
c) She brainwashed her room with bright colours.
d) The chef brainwashed the flavours into the dish.
Answer: b) They tried to brainwash him into believing their ideas.
5. Which idiom relates closely to the definition of "brainwash"?
a) Brainwash the masses
b) Pull the wool over someone's eyes
c) Bite the bullet
d) As brave as a lion
Answer: a) Brainwash the masses
