Basic Details
Word: Cactus
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A plant that has thick, fleshy stems and typically grows in dry areas. It often has spines or thorns instead of leaves.
Synonyms: Succulent, spiny plant
Antonyms: N/A
Idioms and Phrases
- Prickly as a cactus: Describes someone who is very irritable or easily angered. Example: "He's been prickly as a cactus today; I think something is bothering him."
- Stuck in the cactus: To be in a difficult or uncomfortable situation. Example: "After missing the bus, I felt like I was stuck in the cactus trying to find a way to school."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The cactus in my garden blooms beautiful flowers each spring, attracting many bees.
Example 2: Cacti are well adapted to survive in arid climates because they can store water.
Example 3: When hiking in the desert, we saw a large cactus standing tall against the bright blue sky.
Fun Fact
Did you know that some types of cacti can live for over 100 years? They are incredibly resilient plants that can survive in harsh environments!
Famous Quote
"There is an African proverb that states, 'When there is no enemy within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you' just as a cactus stands tall in the desert with thick skin against the world."
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "cactus" mean?
a) A type of tree
b) A spiny desert plant
c) A kind of flower
d) A type of mushroom
Answer: b) A spiny desert plant
2. Which of these is a synonym of "cactus"?
a) Oak
b) Succulent
c) Rose
d) Fern
Answer: b) Succulent
3. Which sentence uses "cactus" correctly?
a) The cactus swam in the pond.
b) The cactus is a favourite flower for gardens in dry areas.
c) The cactus danced at the party.
d) The cactus cooked dinner for us.
Answer: b) The cactus is a favourite flower for gardens in dry areas.
4. Which idiom means someone is easily irritated?
a) Stuck in the cactus
b) Prickly as a cactus
c) As brave as a lion
d) As busy as a bee
Answer: b) Prickly as a cactus
5. What is the opposite of "cactus"?
a) N/A
b) Tree
c) Petunia
d) Grass
Answer: a) N/A
