Basic Details
Word: Laconic
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Using very few words to express something; brief and to the point.
Synonyms: Concise, terse, succinct
Antonyms: Verbose, wordy, long-winded
Idioms and Phrases
- Speak volumes: To communicate a lot using few words. Example: "Her laconic reply really spoke volumes about her true feelings."
- Brevity is the soul of wit: Being concise is a key element of being clever. Example: "He delivered his speech with laconic wisdom, proving that brevity is the soul of wit."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The laconic response from the teacher indicated that she was not pleased with our excuses.
Example 2: David's laconic style made his writing sharp and engaging.
Example 3: Although she spoke very little, her laconic comments often held deep meaning.
Fun Fact
The word laconic comes from the ancient region of Laconia in Greece, where the Spartans lived. The Spartans were known for their terse and brief manner of speaking, which is reflected in the word's current meaning.
Famous Quote
"Brevity is the soul of wit." - William Shakespeare
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "laconic" mean?
a) Using many words
b) Using very few words
c) Talking too much
d) Laughing loudly
Answer: b) Using very few words
2. Which of these is a synonym of "laconic"?
a) Verbose
b) Concise
c) Lengthy
d) Rambling
Answer: b) Concise
3. What is an antonym for "laconic"?
a) Brief
b) Succinct
c) Wordy
d) Clear
Answer: c) Wordy
4. Which sentence uses "laconic" correctly?
a) Her laconic remark took too long to say.
b) He gave a laconic explanation that was both quick and easy to understand.
c) The laconic book had too many chapters.
d) He was incredibly laconic, always talking non-stop.
Answer: b) He gave a laconic explanation that was both quick and easy to understand.
5. Which idiom means the same as "laconic"?
a) Speak volumes
b) Brevity is the soul of wit
c) Talking a mile a minute
d) Let sleeping dogs lie
Answer: b) Brevity is the soul of wit
