Basic Details
Word: Taunt
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To tease or insult someone in a mocking way.
Synonyms: Mock, jeer, ridicule
Antonyms: Compliment, praise, support
Idioms and Phrases
- Throw a taunt: To make a mocking remark towards someone. Example: "He threw a taunt at his friend during the game, but it was all in good fun."
- Taunt and tease: To mock or provoke someone playfully, often used together. Example: "They loved to taunt and tease each other while playing video games."
Usage Examples
Example 1: During the schoolyard game, some kids would taunt the others about their skills.
Example 2: It is not kind to taunt someone who is already feeling down.
Example 3: The bully would taunt his classmates, but the teachers took action to stop him.
Fun Fact
The word "taunt" comes from the Latin word "tantus," meaning "so great," which evolved through Old French. It has been used in English since the late Middle Ages!
Famous Quote
"The greatest harm can result from the best intentions." - Lamentations of the Father, and sometimes, teasing can be hurtful even if it's meant to be playful.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "taunt" mean?
a) To help someone
b) To tease or insult someone
c) To share a secret
d) To play together
Answer: b) To tease or insult someone
2. Which of these is a synonym of "taunt"?
a) Compliment
b) Support
c) Mock
d) Encourage
Answer: c) Mock
3. Which is an antonym of "taunt"?
a) Taunt
b) Ridicule
c) Praise
d) Jeer
Answer: c) Praise
4. Which sentence uses "taunt" correctly?
a) It is good to taunt your friends.
b) She loves to taunt her pets.
c) It is not nice to taunt others when they are upset.
d) He will taunt the cake later.
Answer: c) It is not nice to taunt others when they are upset.
5. Which idiom involves the word "taunt"?
a) Throw a taunt
b) Fly high
c) Jump for joy
d) Run with the wolves
Answer: a) Throw a taunt
