Basic Details
Word: Demur
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To express doubt or to raise objections.
Synonyms: Object, protest, hesitate
Antonyms: Accept, agree, consent
Idioms and Phrases
- Demur to someone's wishes: To express doubt about following someone's wishes. Example: "Although I liked the plan, I had to demur to her wishes because she had stronger reasons."
- Without demur: To agree or comply without showing any objections. Example: "He accepted the rules of the game without demur, eager to begin."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She decided to demur when asked to take part in the risky activity.
Example 2: During the meeting, he raised his hand to demur against the proposed changes to the project.
Example 3: The lawyer chose to demur at the evidence presented, arguing it was insufficient for the case.
Fun Fact
The word "demur" comes from the Latin word "demurare," which means "to delay or hesitate." It has been used in English since the 15th century and is often found in legal contexts.
Famous Quote
"To advise is not to demur; to love is not to be free." Samuel Johnson
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "demur" mean?
a) To agree
b) To express doubt or objections
c) To celebrate
d) To sing
Answer: b) To express doubt or objections
2. Which of these is a synonym of "demur"?
a) Accept
b) Object
c) Celebrate
d) Share
Answer: b) Object
3. What is the opposite of "demur"?
a) Protest
b) Accept
c) Hesitate
d) Object
Answer: b) Accept
4. Which sentence uses "demur" correctly?
a) She chose to demur at the question about her plans.
b) He demurred to finish his homework quickly.
c) They demur while running for the bus.
d) I demur to count the stars in the sky.
Answer: a) She chose to demur at the question about her plans.
5. What does the phrase "without demur" imply?
a) To agree without objection
b) To protest
c) To delay
d) To express doubts
Answer: a) To agree without objection
