Basic Details
Word: Tedious
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Something that is too long, slow, or dull and makes you feel bored.
Synonyms: Boring, monotonous, tiresome
Antonyms: Exciting, interesting, engaging
Idioms and Phrases
- Tedious as watching paint dry: Used to describe something incredibly boring. Example: "The meeting was as tedious as watching paint dry, and I struggled to stay awake."
- Make a tedious task: Refers to making a dull job more interesting or manageable. Example: "She made a tedious task of filing papers enjoyable by listening to music."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The book was so tedious that I couldn't finish reading it, as the story dragged on without any excitement.
Example 2: Completing the tedious homework took me hours, but I finally felt accomplished when I finished.
Example 3: Cleaning the house can be a tedious chore, but it feels satisfying to see everything neat and tidy afterwards.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "tedious" comes from the Latin word "taedium," which means "wearying" or "sorrowful"? This reflects how tedious tasks can often make us feel tired or bored.
Famous Quote
"The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do." Walter Bagehot. This highlights how overcoming tedious challenges can lead to great satisfaction.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "tedious" mean?
a) Very exciting
b) Too long and boring
c) Quick and fun
d) Incredibly easy
Answer: b) Too long and boring
2. Which of these is a synonym of "tedious"?
a) Challenging
b) Engaging
c) Monotonous
d) Stimulating
Answer: c) Monotonous
3. Which of these is an antonym of "tedious"?
a) Boring
b) Exciting
c) Tiresome
d) Dull
Answer: b) Exciting
4. Which sentence uses "tedious" correctly?
a) The movie was full of tedious action sequences.
b) Organising the files can be a tedious job.
c) The party was tedious and lively.
d) He is a tedious soccer player.
Answer: b) Organising the files can be a tedious job.
5. Which idiom describes something very boring?
a) Exciting as a rollercoaster
b) Tedious as watching paint dry
c) As quick as a flash
d) Busy as a bee
Answer: b) Tedious as watching paint dry
