Basic Details
Word: Despicable
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Extremely bad or wicked; deserving of dislike or contempt.
Synonyms: Contemptible, vile, reprehensible
Antonyms: Admirable, commendable, respectable
Idioms and Phrases
- Despicable me: Referring to someone who has behaved very badly. Example: "His actions during the game were despicable; everyone was shocked."
- Despicable act: Any action that is considered loathsome or vile. Example: "The thief committed a despicable act when he stole from the elderly man."
Usage Examples
Example 1: It is truly despicable to bully others for no reason.
Example 2: The villain in the story was known for his despicable behaviour towards innocent people.
Example 3: Many people condemned the despicable actions of the company that harmed the environment.
Fun Fact
The word "despicable" comes from the Latin word "despicabilis," which means 'that can be despised'. This shows how deeply rooted the negative connotation of the word is.
Famous Quote
"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." Edmund Burke - This relates to the idea that despicable acts can flourish if not opposed.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "despicable" mean?
a) Very kind
b) Extremely bad or wicked
c) Funny and entertaining
d) Beautiful and pleasing
Answer: b) Extremely bad or wicked
2. Which of these is a synonym of "despicable"?
a) Admired
b) Contemptible
c) Excellent
d) Wonderful
Answer: b) Contemptible
3. Which sentence uses "despicable" correctly?
a) The despicable cat sat on the mat.
b) The hero was known for his despicable deeds.
c) It was despicable to cheat during the exam.
d) She found a despicable flower in the garden.
Answer: c) It was despicable to cheat during the exam.
4. Which idiom refers to negative behaviour?
a) Despicable act
b) Out of the blue
c) A piece of cake
d) An arm and a leg
Answer: a) Despicable act
5. What is the opposite of "despicable"?
a) Vile
b) Admirable
c) Contemptible
d) Wicked
Answer: b) Admirable
