Basic Details
Word: Threadbare
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Worn out, shabby, or very thin, often because of much use.
Synonyms: Worn, shabby, frayed
Antonyms: New, fresh, pristine
Idioms and Phrases
- Threadbare excuse: A justification that is weak or not convincing. Example: "His threadbare excuse for missing the meeting didn't gain any sympathy."
- Threadbare tale: A story that has been told too many times and has lost its originality. Example: "The detective's threadbare tale of his last case bored everyone at the party."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The child's threadbare coat could no longer keep him warm during the chilly winter.
Example 2: After many years of use, the carpet in the sitting room had become threadbare in several places.
Example 3: The book was filled with threadbare jokes that failed to amuse the audience.
Fun Fact
The term "threadbare" originated from the literal wear and tear of fabric, where threads become exposed due to extensive use, hence the word reflects both physical wear and figurative meanings, such as tired ideas or arguments.
Famous Quote
"A threadbare truth is still more valuable than a fresh lie." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "threadbare" mean?
a) Completely new
b) Worn out and shabby
c) Very colourful
d) Extremely loud
Answer: b) Worn out and shabby
2. Which of these is a synonym of "threadbare"?
a) Shiny
b) Worn
c) Bright
d) Modern
Answer: b) Worn
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "threadbare"?
a) Frayed
b) Fresh
c) Shabby
d) Old
Answer: b) Fresh
4. Which sentence uses "threadbare" correctly?
a) The threadbare shirt had many holes and strands sticking out.
b) The threadbare mountain touched the sky.
c) The threadbare juice tasted refreshing.
d) The threadbare car soared above the clouds.
Answer: a) The threadbare shirt had many holes and strands sticking out.
5. What does "threadbare excuse" mean?
a) A convincing reason
b) A weak justification
c) A popular saying
d) A fashion statement
Answer: b) A weak justification
