Basic Details
Word: Taunt
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To tease or make fun of someone in a hurtful or mocking way.
Synonyms: Mock, jeer, deride
Antonyms: Praise, compliment
Idioms and Phrases
- Taunting the tiger: To provoke someone who is threatening or dangerous. Example: "He was taunting the tiger by waving his arms, not realising how risky it was."
- Don't taunt the bull: A warning against provoking someone who might retaliate. Example: "You need to be careful what you say to him; don't taunt the bull."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The older kids would taunt him during recess, making him feel isolated and sad.
Example 2: Its not nice to taunt others for their mistakes; we all make them sometimes.
Example 3: The player was taunted by the opposing team after missing an easy goal.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "taunt" comes from the Middle French "tant," which means to "challenge" or "provoke"? Over the years, it has taken on a more negative connotation in English.
Famous Quote
"The cruelest lies are often told in silence." Robert Louis Stevenson This quote reflects how silence can be a form of taunting, implying negativity without words.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "taunt" mean?
a) To encourage someone
b) To tease or make fun of someone
c) To ignore someone
d) To help someone
Answer: b) To tease or make fun of someone
2. Which of these is a synonym of "taunt"?
a) Applaud
b) Mock
c) Assist
d) Praise
Answer: b) Mock
3. What is an antonym of "taunt"?
a) Laugh
b) Jeer
c) Praise
d) Ridicule
Answer: c) Praise
4. Which sentence uses "taunt" correctly?
a) I love to taunt my cat by playing with yarn.
b) They taunted him for having a beautiful singing voice.
c) She felt sad when her friends taunted her during the game.
d) The teacher taunted the students with extra homework.
Answer: c) She felt sad when her friends taunted her during the game.
5. What does "don't taunt the bull" mean?
a) To be brave
b) To provoke someone who might retaliate
c) To help someone in need
d) To enjoy nature
Answer: b) To provoke someone who might retaliate
