Basic Details
Word: Retardation
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The process of slowing down or being delayed in movement, progress, or development.
Synonyms: Delay, hindrance, obstruction
Antonyms: Acceleration, advancement, progress
Idioms and Phrases
- Slow but steady: Used to describe a gradual but consistent progression despite delays. Example: "His slow but steady approach to studying helped him succeed in the exams."
- Put the brakes on: To stop or slow down progress. Example: "The new rules put the brakes on the project, causing a delay."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The retardation of economic growth due to the pandemic affected many businesses.
Example 2: Scientists are studying the factors that contribute to the retardation of plant growth in cold climates.
Example 3: Due to the heavy rain, the construction works faced some retardation and were extended by several weeks.
Fun Fact
The term "retardation" comes from the Latin word "retardare," which means "to make slow" or "to delay." It has been used in various scientific fields, including physics and psychology, to describe delays or slow progress.
Famous Quote
"Time is a created thing. To say 'I don't have time,' is like saying, 'I don't want to.'" - Lao Tzu
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "retardation" mean?
a) Quick progress
b) The process of slowing down
c) Gathering speed
d) No change
Answer: b) The process of slowing down
2. Which of these is a synonym of "retardation"?
a) Acceleration
b) Delay
c) Progress
d) Success
Answer: b) Delay
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "retardation"?
a) Obstruction
b) Advancement
c) Hindrance
d) Slowdown
Answer: b) Advancement
4. Which sentence uses "retardation" correctly?
a) The retardation of the clock made it run faster.
b) The retardation in traffic caused everyone to be late.
c) The gardener used retardation to speed up plant growth.
d) I enjoy the retardation of the music.
Answer: b) The retardation in traffic caused everyone to be late.
5. Which idiom means to slow down progress?
a) Slow but steady
b) Put the brakes on
c) The early bird gets the worm
d) A stitch in time saves nine
Answer: b) Put the brakes on
