Basic Details
Word: Smug
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Feeling very pleased with oneself, often in a way that seems annoying to others.
Synonyms: Complacent, self-satisfied, conceited
Antonyms: Humble, modest, unassuming
Idioms and Phrases
- Smug as a bug in a rug: Used to describe someone who is very pleased and comfortable in their situation. Example: "After winning the competition, she was as smug as a bug in a rug."
- Smug grin: A self-satisfied smile that indicates a sense of superiority. Example: "He walked into the room with a smug grin after completing the project on his own."
Usage Examples
Example 1: His smug attitude after scoring the highest in the class was quite off-putting to his classmates.
Example 2: She had a smug look on her face when she explained how easy the final exam was for her.
Example 3: After successfully fixing the car, he felt smug and proud of his mechanic skills.
Fun Fact
The word "smug" originated in the early 18th century, derived from the word "smugge", which meant "to make clean" or "sneaky", often used to describe someone who is overly self-satisfied.
Famous Quote
"Success is often the result of taking a misstep in the right direction." Al Bernstein (This quote highlights that feeling smug about successes can hinder true progress.)
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "smug" mean?
a) Feeling very pleased with oneself
b) Feeling sad or upset
c) Feeling confused
d) Feeling angry
Answer: a) Feeling very pleased with oneself
2. Which of these is a synonym of "smug"?
a) Humble
b) Complacent
c) Shy
d) Generous
Answer: b) Complacent
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "smug"?
a) Proud
b) Modest
c) Conceited
d) Load
Answer: b) Modest
4. Which sentence uses "smug" correctly?
a) She felt smug after losing the race.
b) He had a smug look after winning the argument.
c) The dog looked smug with its sad eyes.
d) They were smug when they helped others.
Answer: b) He had a smug look after winning the argument.
5. Which idiom means being overly pleased with oneself?
a) Smug as a bug in a rug
b) A fish out of water
c) As clear as mud
d) In hot water
Answer: a) Smug as a bug in a rug
