Basic Details
Word: Nail-biting
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Something that is very exciting or nerve-wracking, making you anxious or tense.
Synonyms: Tense, thrilling, suspenseful
Antonyms: Calm, relaxing, soothing
Idioms and Phrases
- Nail-biting suspense: Refers to a thrilling situation where you are on the edge of your seat. Example: "The movie had nail-biting suspense, and I couldn't look away from the screen!"
- Nail-biter: A situation or event that causes anxious anticipation. Example: "The final minutes of the match were a real nail-biter, with both teams so close to victory."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The nail-biting finish of the race kept the audience cheering until the last second.
Example 2: Watching the last episode of the series was a nail-biting experience; I was so anxious to find out what would happen next!
Example 3: The nail-biting tension during the exam made me feel very nervous, but I managed to pass!
Fun Fact
The term "nail-biting" originally referred to the physical act of biting nails, which many people do when they are anxious or nervous. Now, it is often used to describe exciting situations that create the same feeling of anxiety.
Famous Quote
"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." - Franklin D. Roosevelt. This quote relates to the nail-biting situations we often face in life.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "nail-biting" mean?
a) Very boring
b) Exciting and nerve-wracking
c) Calm and peaceful
d) Easy and simple
Answer: b) Exciting and nerve-wracking
2. Which of these is a synonym of "nail-biting"?
a) Boring
b) Tense
c) Relaxing
d) Predictable
Answer: b) Tense
3. Which sentence uses "nail-biting" correctly?
a) The nail-biting cake was delicious.
b) The nail-biting match had everyone holding their breath.
c) I took a nail-biting walk in the park.
d) She wore a beautiful nail-biting dress.
Answer: b) The nail-biting match had everyone holding their breath.
4. Which idiom refers to a situation that causes anxious anticipation?
a) Nail-biting suspense
b) Piece of cake
c) Calm before the storm
d) As easy as pie
Answer: a) Nail-biting suspense
5. What is the opposite of "nail-biting"?
a) Nerve-racking
b) Thrilling
c) Relaxing
d) Exciting
Answer: c) Relaxing
