Basic Details
Word: Matchstick
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A small stick made of wood or paper with a chemical tip that is used to start a fire.
Synonyms: Firestick, igniter
Antonyms: Extinguisher
Idioms and Phrases
- Strike a match: To begin a process or action. Example: "He decided to strike a match and start his own business."
- Burning the candle at both ends: To work excessively hard and exhaust oneself. Example: "Studying late into the night while waking up early for work is just like burning the candle at both ends."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She used a matchstick to light the candle on the table during dinner.
Example 2: The box of matchsticks was damp, so they were hard to use.
Example 3: He carefully struck a matchstick and watched the flame flicker to life.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the first matches were invented in Sweden in 1855? They were called "safety matches" because they could only be ignited when struck against a special surface.
Famous Quote
"Just as a matchstick can light a fire, so can a single idea light a path to success." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "matchstick" mean?
a) A large fire extinguisher
b) A small stick used to start a fire
c) A type of candle
d) A tool used for building
Answer: b) A small stick used to start a fire
2. Which of these is a synonym of "matchstick"?
a) Firestick
b) Hammer
c) Screwdriver
d) Pliers
Answer: a) Firestick
3. What is the opposite of "matchstick"?
a) Candle
b) Extinguisher
c) Torch
d) Flame
Answer: b) Extinguisher
4. Which sentence uses "matchstick" correctly?
a) The matchstick was used to ignite the fireworks.
b) The matchstick swam across the river.
c) I painted the matchstick blue.
d) The matchstick played in the band.
Answer: a) The matchstick was used to ignite the fireworks.
5. Which idiom means to begin an action?
a) Strike a match
b) Burn the midnight oil
c) Light the way
d) Toss the dice
Answer: a) Strike a match
