Basic Details
Word: Preface
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: An introduction to a book, typically stating its subject, scope, or aims.
Synonyms: Introduction, foreword, prologue, preamble
Antonyms: Epilogue, conclusion, afterword, postscript
Idioms and Phrases
- By way of preface: Used to introduce something with preliminary remarks. Example: "By way of preface, let me explain the background of the project."
- Preface something with: To begin a speech or statement by saying something else first. Example: "She prefaced her remarks with a thank you to the organizers."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The author explains in the preface how she came to write the book.
Example 2: In the preface, the scientist outlines the purpose of his research.
Example 3: He prefaced his lecture with a brief personal story.
Fun Fact
Did you know that "preface" comes from the Latin word "praefatio," meaning "spoken before"? It originally referred to an oration given before a formal event, and over time became associated with books and speeches.
Famous Quote
"A preface, though it seems out of place, often reveals the heart of the author." Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "preface" mean?
a) A concluding statement
b) A type of summary
c) An introduction to a book
d) A chapter of a novel
Answer: c) An introduction to a book
2. Which of these is a synonym of "preface"?
a) Afterword
b) Introduction
c) Postscript
d) Appendix
Answer: b) Introduction
3. Which is an antonym of "preface"?
a) Prologue
b) Introduction
c) Foreword
d) Epilogue
Answer: d) Epilogue
4. Which sentence uses "preface" correctly?
a) He added a preface to explain his main points.
b) She wrote a preface at the end of the novel.
c) The preface explained the final outcome.
d) They discussed the preface after finishing the story.
Answer: a) He added a preface to explain his main points.
5. What does the phrase "by way of preface" mean?
a) To end a discussion politely
b) To provide a final summary
c) To make a concluding statement
d) To introduce a topic with preliminary remarks
Answer: d) To introduce a topic with preliminary remarks
