Basic Details
Word: Serendipity
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A happy and unexpected discovery or event.
Synonyms: Chance, coincidence, fluke
Antonyms: Misfortune, calamity, disaster
Idioms and Phrases
- Serendipity strikes: A moment when a lucky surprise happens. Example: "When I found that lost book in the library, serendipity struck, and I was thrilled to read my favourite story again."
- Happy accident: An unintentional event that leads to something beneficial. Example: "The chef called his new dish a happy accident after he accidentally mixed the perfect ingredients together."
Usage Examples
Example 1: While exploring the old attic, I experienced a sense of serendipity when I stumbled upon my grandmother's treasured letters.
Example 2: The invention of the microwave oven was a result of serendipity when a scientist discovered that a chocolate bar melted in his pocket while working with radar technology.
Example 3: Our trip to the countryside was filled with serendipity, as we found a hidden waterfall while walking along a trail.
Fun Fact
The term "serendipity" was coined by the writer Horace Walpole in 1754, inspired by a Persian fairy tale called "The Three Princes of Serendip," where the princes made discoveries by chance.
Famous Quote
"Serendipity is the art of finding what you werent looking for." - Lawrence Block
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "serendipity" mean?
a) A sad event
b) A happy and unexpected discovery
c) A planned occurrence
d) A type of food
Answer: b) A happy and unexpected discovery
2. Which of these is a synonym of "serendipity"?
a) Disaster
b) Chance
c) Misfortune
d) Problem
Answer: b) Chance
3. Which word is an antonym of "serendipity"?
a) Coincidence
b) Happy accident
c) Misfortune
d) Fluke
Answer: c) Misfortune
4. Which sentence uses "serendipity" correctly?
a) Her serendipity made her sad.
b) I felt serendipity when I found my lost pet.
c) There was serendipity in the storm.
d) We plan our serendipity every year.
Answer: b) I felt serendipity when I found my lost pet.
5. Which idiom refers to unexpected good fortune?
a) Happy accident
b) Road less travelled
c) A close call
d) Burn the midnight oil
Answer: a) Happy accident
