Basic Details
Word: Excruciating
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Extremely painful or intense; very severe.
Synonyms: Agonising, tormenting, severe
Antonyms: Comfortable, pleasant, easy
Idioms and Phrases
- Excruciatingly slow: Something that takes a painfully long time. Example: "The exam felt excruciatingly slow, making everyone anxious."
- Excruciating pain: A pain that is very severe and difficult to endure. Example: "He fell and experienced excruciating pain in his ankle."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The dentist's drill caused me excruciating pain, making me wish I hadn’t put off my visit.
Example 2: She tried to focus on her studies, but the excruciating headache made it impossible.
Example 3: Waiting for the results of the test was an excruciating experience for the students.
Fun Fact
The word "excruciating" comes from the Latin word "excruciare," which means "to torment or crucify." It reflects the high level of pain originally meant to convey extreme suffering.
Famous Quote
"Sometimes, it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways." James Redfield
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "excruciating" mean?
a) Mild and easy
b) Extremely painful
c) Very colourful
d) Full of joy
Answer: b) Extremely painful
2. Which of these is a synonym of "excruciating"?
a) Happy
b) Placid
c) Agonising
d) Simple
Answer: c) Agonising
3. Which word is an antonym of "excruciating"?
a) Difficult
b) Comfortable
c) Frightening
d) Complicated
Answer: b) Comfortable
4. Which sentence uses "excruciating" correctly?
a) The flowers bloomed excruciatingly in spring.
b) She felt excruciating pain after the fall.
c) The book was excruciating and full of excitement.
d) The cake was excruciatingly delicious.
Answer: b) She felt excruciating pain after the fall.
5. What does the phrase "excruciatingly slow" refer to?
a) Very quick
b) Taking a painful long time
c) Happening instantly
d) Extremely exciting
Answer: b) Taking a painful long time
