Basic Details
Word: Stagger
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To walk or move unsteadily, often swaying from side to side.
Synonyms: Totter, wobble, sway
Antonyms: Steady, balance, stabilise
Idioms and Phrases
- Staggering to victory: Refers to achieving success with great difficulty or against the odds. Example: "The team was staggering to victory as they scored in the final minutes of the match."
- Staggered breath: A breath taken when someone is shocked or surprised. Example: "She took a staggered breath when she heard the news of her promotion."
Usage Examples
Example 1: After running the race, I felt dizzy and began to stagger slightly as I tried to catch my breath.
Example 2: The old man would often stagger down the street, leaning on his cane for support.
Example 3: As the earthquake struck, people began to stagger and find their balance to avoid falling.
Fun Fact
The word "stagger" originates from the Old English word "staggerian," which means to "move unsteadily." This term has been used for centuries to describe an unstable gait.
Famous Quote
"Success is not how high you have climbed, but how you make a positive difference to the world." - Roy T. Bennett. (This speaks to the idea that even if you stagger at times, what matters is the impact you make.)
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "stagger" mean?
a) To walk unsteadily
b) To run quickly
c) To jump high
d) To sit still
Answer: a) To walk unsteadily
2. Which of these is a synonym of "stagger"?
a) Sway
b) Sprint
c) Stand
d) Swim
Answer: a) Sway
3. Which word is an antonym of "stagger"?
a) Totter
b) Steady
c) Wobble
d) Sway
Answer: b) Steady
4. Which sentence uses "stagger" correctly?
a) She staggered confidently across the stage.
b) They staggered their plans to ensure everyone could attend.
c) The toddler staggered around the living room, learning to walk.
d) He staggered up a mountain quickly.
Answer: c) The toddler staggered around the living room, learning to walk.
5. Which idiom implies overcoming difficulties to succeed?
a) Staggering to victory
b) To have a solid foundation
c) To walk the walk
d) Take it one step at a time
Answer: a) Staggering to victory
