Basic Details
Word: Ordeal
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A difficult or painful experience that tests a person's character or endurance.
Synonyms: Trial, hardship, challenge
Antonyms: Comfort, pleasure, joy
Idioms and Phrases
- Going through the ordeal: To experience a tough and challenging situation. Example: "She was going through the ordeal of a long recovery after her surgery."
- Trial by fire: A difficult experience that tests a person's abilities. Example: "His first day in the job was a trial by fire, with many unexpected challenges."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The survivors of the storm spoke about the ordeal they faced while waiting for help.
Example 2: Climbing the mountain was an ordeal, but reaching the summit made it worthwhile.
Example 3: The long exam felt like an ordeal, but I was glad when it was finally over.
Fun Fact
The word "ordeal" comes from the Old English word "ordale," which meant a trial or judgment. It was often used in historical contexts where an ordeal determined guilt or innocence.
Famous Quote
"What we hope ever to do with ease, we must first learn to do with diligence." Samuel Johnson
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "ordeal" mean?
a) A simple task
b) A difficult experience
c) A fun activity
d) A pleasant journey
Answer: b) A difficult experience
2. Which of these is a synonym of "ordeal"?
a) Joy
b) Trial
c) Celebration
d) Game
Answer: b) Trial
3. Which is an antonym of "ordeal"?
a) Hardship
b) Comfort
c) Challenge
d) Difficulty
Answer: b) Comfort
4. Which sentence uses "ordeal" correctly?
a) The ordeal was a fun day at the park.
b) The ordeal of getting stuck in traffic was frustrating.
c) She had an ordeal when she baked a cake.
d) His ordeal was to relax on the beach.
Answer: b) The ordeal of getting stuck in traffic was frustrating.
5. What does "trial by fire" refer to?
a) A fun game
b) A type of candy
c) A difficult experience that tests ability
d) A comfortable situation
Answer: c) A difficult experience that tests ability
