Basic Details
Word: Serendipity
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A happy accident or a pleasant surprise that happens by chance.
Synonyms: Chance, fluke, luck
Antonyms: Misfortune, bad luck
Idioms and Phrases
- Serendipity strikes: When something unexpectedly good happens. Example: "While I was looking for my lost keys, I found a $20 note on the ground; serendipity strikes!"
- Lucky break: A fortunate event that happens unexpectedly. Example: "Winning the contest was a lucky break for her, giving her a chance to travel to Paris."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The discovery of penicillin was a classic case of serendipity in the world of medicine.
Example 2: On her way to the library, she stumbled upon an old friend, which was a delightful bit of serendipity.
Example 3: The childrens laughter in the park brought a feeling of serendipity to the otherwise dull afternoon.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the term "serendipity" was coined from a Persian fairy tale called "The Three Princes of Serendip," who were always making discoveries by happy accident?
Famous Quote
"Serendipity is looking in a haystack for a needle and discovering a farmer's daughter." Julius Comroe
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "serendipity" mean?
a) A type of flower
b) A happy accident
c) A strong storm
d) A kind of fish
Answer: b) A happy accident
2. Which of these is a synonym of "serendipity"?
a) Misfortune
b) Chance
c) Issue
d) Problem
Answer: b) Chance
3. What is an antonym of "serendipity"?
a) Surprise
b) Luck
c) Misfortune
d) Coincidence
Answer: c) Misfortune
4. Which sentence correctly uses "serendipity"?
a) There was serendipity all night at the concert.
b) Finding the golden ring was a moment of serendipity for her.
c) Serendipity is the name of a new video game.
d) He has serendipity every morning for breakfast.
Answer: b) Finding the golden ring was a moment of serendipity for her.
5. Which idiom indicates a surprising good thing happening?
a) Biting the bullet
b) Lucky break
c) Burning the midnight oil
d) Jumping the gun
Answer: b) Lucky break
