Basic Details
Word: Decompose
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To break down into smaller parts or simpler substances, especially to decay or rot.
Synonyms: Disintegrate, break down, rot, decay
Antonyms: Preserve, build, construct
Idioms and Phrases
- Decompose in peace: To rest undisturbed, often used about someone who has passed away. Example: "After such a long and fulfilling life, he deserves to decompose in peace."
- Breaking it down to basics: To simplify something complicated. Example: "In order to understand the concept, we must break it down to basics."
Usage Examples
Example 1: When leaves fall in autumn, they will eventually decompose and enrich the soil.
Example 2: The scientists studied how organic materials decompose in different environments.
Example 3: Bacteria help to decompose food waste, turning it into useful compost for gardens.
Fun Fact
Did you know that a decomposing banana can emit gases that attract flies? This is part of the natural process of decomposition, which helps to recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem.
Famous Quote
"Life is all about the process; we are born, we grow, we decompose, and we return." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "decompose" mean?
a) To jump high
b) To break down into smaller parts
c) To build something
d) To paint a picture
Answer: b) To break down into smaller parts
2. Which of these is a synonym of "decompose"?
a) Construct
b) Disintegrate
c) Preserve
d) Create
Answer: b) Disintegrate
3. What is an antonym of "decompose"?
a) Disintegrate
b) Build
c) Break down
d) Rot
Answer: b) Build
4. Which sentence uses "decompose" correctly?
a) The tree will decompose in the winter and grow in the spring.
b) We need to decompose the puzzle pieces to solve it.
c) If you leave food outside, it will begin to decompose.
d) The artist decided to decompose on the canvas.
Answer: c) If you leave food outside, it will begin to decompose.
5. Which idiom means to simplify something?
a) Decompose in peace
b) Breaking it down to basics
c) As hot as fire
d) Barking up the wrong tree
Answer: b) Breaking it down to basics
