Basic Details
Word: Mere
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Used to emphasise how small or insignificant something is.
Synonyms: Simple, only, just
Antonyms: Significant, important, substantial
Idioms and Phrases
- At the mere mention: Used when something is discussed or mentioned in a light or simple manner. Example: "At the mere mention of chocolate, she smiled."
- As a mere child: Used to describe someone when they were very young, implying limited understanding or experience. Example: "He started playing the piano as a mere child, and now he is a concert pianist."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The mere thought of going to the amusement park filled the children with excitement.
Example 2: She was a mere assistant at the company but had great ideas that changed the project.
Example 3: The river appears as a mere trickle in the dry season, hardly noticeable beneath the stones.
Fun Fact
The word "mere" comes from the Old English word "mearc," which meant "boundary" or "mark." Over time, it evolved to imply something that was minimal or of little value.
Famous Quote
"A mere description of ourselves can never be enough for the wondrous complexity of our nature." Anas Nin
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "mere" mean?
a) Very large
b) Barely enough
c) Used to emphasise something small or insignificant
d) A type of animal
Answer: c) Used to emphasise something small or insignificant
2. Which of these is a synonym of "mere"?
a) Large
b) Significant
c) Only
d) Important
Answer: c) Only
3. Which word is an antonym of "mere"?
a) Simple
b) Substantial
c) Just
d) Few
Answer: b) Substantial
4. Which sentence uses "mere" correctly?
a) The mere cat chased the mouse around the house.
b) She was merely happy to be at the party.
c) The mere size of the mountain was overwhelming.
d) He had a mere idea for a project that changed everything.
Answer: c) The mere size of the mountain was overwhelming.
5. Which idiom means at the simple mention of something?
a) At the mere mention
b) As a mere child
c) More than meets the eye
d) Actions speak louder than words
Answer: a) At the mere mention
