Basic Details
Word: Demagogue
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A leader who tries to gain power by appealing to people's emotions and prejudices rather than using logical arguments.
Synonyms: Rabble-rouser, agitator, firebrand
Antonyms: Peacemaker, mediator
Idioms and Phrases
- Rallying the crowd: Gaining public support impressively. Example: "The politician was great at rallying the crowd with his passionate speeches."
- Selling snake oil: Trying to convince people of something false or ineffective. Example: "The demagogue was selling snake oil by promising riches to everyone."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The demagogue used fiery rhetoric to stir up the audience and gain their support.
Example 2: People often followed the demagogue without questioning the truth of his words.
Example 3: The demagogue's speeches were filled with slogans that appealed to the community's fears and hopes.
Fun Fact
The term "demagogue" originates from the ancient Greek word "demagogos," meaning "popular leader." Initially, it referred to leaders who claimed to represent the common people, but over time, it took on a negative connotation.
Famous Quote
"The demagogue is an emotional thinker, while the true leader is a thoughtful thinker." – Harvey Mackay
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "demagogue" mean?
a) A wise leader
b) A leader who uses emotions for power
c) A peaceful mediator
d) A strict teacher
Answer: b) A leader who uses emotions for power
2. Which of these is a synonym of "demagogue"?
a) Scholar
b) Peacemaker
c) Rabble-rouser
d) Mediator
Answer: c) Rabble-rouser
3. Which is an antonym of "demagogue"?
a) Agitator
b) Firebrand
c) Peacemaker
d) Orator
Answer: c) Peacemaker
4. Which sentence uses "demagogue" correctly?
a) The demagogue promised to solve all problems with a magic wand.
b) The demagogue was a great artist in the community.
c) The demagogue made everyone laugh at his jokes.
d) The demagogue inspired people to think for themselves.
Answer: a) The demagogue promised to solve all problems with a magic wand.
5. Which idiom means something similar to the actions of a demagogue?
a) Selling snake oil
b) Breaking the ice
c) In hot water
d) Jumping to conclusions
Answer: a) Selling snake oil
