Basic Details
Word: Predatory
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Describes animals that hunt and eat other animals; also refers to a harmful behaviour aimed at taking advantage of others.
Synonyms: Hunting, predacious
Antonyms: Non-threatening, gentle
Idioms and Phrases
- Predatory behaviour: Acting in a way that seeks to exploit others for personal gain. Example: "His predatory behaviour in the meeting made everyone uncomfortable."
- Like a predator on the prowl: Referring to someone who is searching for an opportunity to take advantage of others. Example: "She moved through the crowded market like a predator on the prowl, looking for a weak bargain."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Lions are known for their predatory nature, often hunting for food in groups called prides.
Example 2: The documentary highlighted how predatory animals adapt to their environment to survive.
Example 3: He used predatory tactics in business, focusing solely on profit without regard for his colleagues.
Fun Fact
The word "predatory" comes from the Latin word "praedator," which means "plunderer" or "robber." This reflects the natural behaviour of animals that hunt to survive.
Famous Quote
"In nature, there are neither rewards nor punishments; there are consequences." Robert G. Ingersoll
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "predatory" mean?
a) Friendly and gentle
b) Describing animals that hunt other animals
c) A type of plant
d) Related to flying
Answer: b) Describing animals that hunt other animals
2. Which of these is a synonym of "predatory"?
a) Gentle
b) Hunting
c) Peaceful
d) Calm
Answer: b) Hunting
3. What is an antonym of "predatory"?
a) Aggressive
b) Non-threatening
c) Dominant
d) Strong
Answer: b) Non-threatening
4. Which sentence uses "predatory" correctly?
a) The predatory bird sang beautifully in the tree.
b) The predatory cat chased its tail all day.
c) The predatory fish hid among the rocks before ambushing its prey.
d) The predatory elephant painted a picture.
Answer: c) The predatory fish hid among the rocks before ambushing its prey.
5. What does "like a predator on the prowl" mean?
a) Searching for food in the wild
b) Relaxing quietly
c) Looking for an opportunity to take advantage of others
d) Playing with friends
Answer: c) Looking for an opportunity to take advantage of others
