Basic Details
Word: Opossum
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A small, nocturnal marsupial known for playing dead when threatened and has a long snout and a prehensile tail.
Synonyms: None commonly used
Antonyms: N/A
Idioms and Phrases
- Playing possum: To pretend to be asleep or dead, often used to avoid danger or responsibility. Example: "When the teacher asked him about the missing homework, he just played possum."
- As curious as an opossum: Referring to someone who is very inquisitive or curious about everything. Example: "She was as curious as an opossum, always asking questions about how things worked."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The opossum curled up in a ball and played dead when it sensed a predator nearby.
Example 2: We spotted an opossum foraging for food in the garden during the night.
Example 3: Opossums are helpful creatures as they eat pests like ticks and insects.
Fun Fact
Did you know that opossums are the only marsupials native to North America? They have the ability to carry up to 13 babies in their pouch!
Famous Quote
"An opossum does not have a good life but it doesnt complain; it lives." Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "opossum" mean?
a) A type of bird
b) A small marsupial that often plays dead
c) A kind of fish
d) A large mammal
Answer: b) A small marsupial that often plays dead
2. Which phrase means to pretend to be asleep or dead?
a) Walking the line
b) Playing possum
c) Keeping it real
d) Jumping the gun
Answer: b) Playing possum
3. Which sentence uses "opossum" correctly?
a) The opossum flew across the sky.
b) The opossum ran fast away from danger.
c) The opossum played dead when it saw the cat.
d) The opossum sang a happy song.
Answer: c) The opossum played dead when it saw the cat.
4. What is the opposite of "opossum"?
a) N/A
b) Dog
c) Cat
d) Bird
Answer: a) N/A
5. Which idiom refers to someone who is very curious?
a) Playing possum
b) As curious as an opossum
c) Jumping on the bandwagon
d) In the same boat
Answer: b) As curious as an opossum
