Basic Details
Word: Sample
Part of Speech: Noun / Verb
Meaning:
As a noun: A small part or quantity intended to show what the whole is like.
As a verb: To try or test a small part of something.
Synonyms: Specimen, example, illustration, tester
Antonyms: Whole, entirety, total
Idioms and Phrases
- Sample the goods: To try or experience something before making a decision. Example: "He sampled the goods before placing a large order."
- A taste/sample of one's own medicine: Experiencing the same unpleasant treatment one has given others. Example: "The prankster got a sample of his own medicine when someone tricked him back."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The scientist collected a water sample from the river for testing.
Example 2: We were given a free sample of the new snack at the store.
Example 3: She sampled several dishes before deciding what to order.
Fun Fact
The word "sample" originates from the Old French *essample*, which itself comes from the Latin *exemplum*, meaning "example"-highlighting its early use in teaching and demonstration.
Famous Quote
"A sample is worth a thousand opinions." - Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "sample" mean as a noun?
a) A type of product
b) A full collection
c) A small part representing the whole
d) A broken object
Answer: c) A small part representing the whole
2. Which of these is a synonym of "sample"?
a) Entirety
b) Whole
c) Specimen
d) Loss
Answer: c) Specimen
3. Which is an antonym of "sample"?
a) Portion
b) Example
c) Total
d) Test
Answer: c) Total
4. Which sentence uses "sample" correctly?
a) He sample the large car for fun.
b) The teacher gave us a sample question to practice.
c) The sample is walked into the room.
d) They samples everything in the store.
Answer: b) The teacher gave us a sample question to practice.
5. What does the idiom "a sample of one's own medicine" mean?
a) Trying a new flavor
b) Getting revenge
c) Experiencing one's own behavior in return
d) Taking medicine alone
Answer: c) Experiencing one's own behavior in return
