Basic Details
Word: Demise
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The end of something, especially the death of someone or the termination of an idea or operation.
Synonyms: Death, passing, end
Antonyms: Birth, beginning, start
Idioms and Phrases
- Demise of the empire: Refers to the fall or end of a powerful group or institution. Example: "The demise of the empire came after years of wars and poor leadership."
- Meet your demise: A phrase used when someone faces a downfall or death. Example: "He warned his enemies that they would meet their demise if they continued their plans."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The sudden demise of the famous actor shocked fans around the world.
Example 2: The company faced its demise when it failed to adapt to new technologies.
Example 3: Many people mourned the demise of the old bookstore that had been a community hub for decades.
Fun Fact
The word "demise" comes from the Latin word "dimittere," which means "to send away." Initially, it was used in legal contexts referring to the transfer of an estate upon someone's death before evolving into its modern usage.
Famous Quote
"In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes." Benjamin Franklin
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "demise" mean?
a) Beginning of life
b) A joyful event
c) The end of something, especially death
d) A celebration
Answer: c) The end of something, especially death
2. Which of these is a synonym of "demise"?
a) Birth
b) Death
c) Success
d) Growth
Answer: b) Death
3. Which of these is an antonym of "demise"?
a) Passing
b) End
c) Birth
d) Termination
Answer: c) Birth
4. Which sentence uses "demise" correctly?
a) The student's demise in mathematics is evident from his grades.
b) After years of hard work, the team's success led to their eventual demise.
c) The writer celebrated her demise by publishing a book.
d) His strong character was instrumental in preventing the demise of the project.
Answer: d) His strong character was instrumental in preventing the demise of the project.
5. Which idiom suggests facing an end or downfall?
a) Rise from the ashes
b) Meet your demise
c) See eye to eye
d) Go the extra mile
Answer: b) Meet your demise
