Basic Details
Word: Repellent
Part of Speech: Adjective; Noun
Meaning: (Adjective) Causing something to be pushed away; (Noun) A substance used to keep insects or animals away.
Synonyms: Deterrent, repulsive, obstructive
Antonyms: Attractive, inviting, appealing
Idioms and Phrases
- Repel like magnets: Used to describe two things or people that do not get along at all. Example: "John and Ben repel like magnets; they always end up arguing."
- Repellent to reason: Someone or something that is difficult to convince or understand. Example: "Her argument was repellent to reason, making it hard for others to follow."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The gardener used a natural insect repellent to protect his plants from pests.
Example 2: Many people find the smell of certain foods to be repellent, like strong cheese or fish.
Example 3: The repellent spray worked well, and the mosquitoes stayed away during the outdoor party.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "repellent" comes from the Latin word "repellere," which means "to drive back"? This reflects its function of keeping unwanted pests away!
Famous Quote
"Most of us are repelled by the thought of getting older. But on the contrary, I think it's the best time of our life." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "repellent" mean?
a) Something that attracts
b) Causing something to be pushed away
c) A type of plant
d) A sweet food
Answer: b) Causing something to be pushed away
2. Which of these is a synonym of "repellent"?
a) Attractive
b) Alluring
c) Deterrent
d) Charming
Answer: c) Deterrent
3. Which sentence uses "repellent" correctly?
a) The repellent caught the ball and threw it back.
b) The repellent spray kept the bugs away from our picnic.
c) She wore a repellent dress to the party.
d) The dog was repellent because it barked loudly.
Answer: b) The repellent spray kept the bugs away from our picnic.
4. Which idiom means something is hard to convince or understand?
a) Repel like magnets
b) Like a moth to a flame
c) Repellent to reason
d) Like water off a duck's back
Answer: c) Repellent to reason
5. What is the opposite of "repellent"?
a) Inviting
b) Deterrent
c) Disgusting
d) Offensive
Answer: a) Inviting
