Basic Details
Word: Tyranny
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: Cruel and unfair treatment, often by a ruler or government.
Synonyms: Oppression, despotism, dictatorship
Antonyms: Freedom, democracy, liberty
Idioms and Phrases
- Under the thumb of tyranny: To be controlled or oppressed by a harsh ruler. Example: "The citizens lived under the thumb of tyranny for many years before fighting for their rights."
- Beneath the iron fist: To be governed or ruled harshly by a tough leader. Example: "Life was difficult for the people who lived beneath the iron fist of the dictator."
Usage Examples
Example 1: During times of tyranny, people often struggle to express their opinions freely.
Example 2: The citizens gathered to protest against the tyranny that had taken over their country.
Example 3: History is full of stories about heroes who stood up against tyranny to fight for justice.
Fun Fact
The word "tyranny" comes from the Ancient Greek word "tyrannos," which meant 'ruler' or 'tyrant'. Originally, it did not have a negative connotation, but over time it became associated with oppressive rulers.
Famous Quote
"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." Edmund Burke
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "tyranny" mean?
a) A type of animal
b) Cruel and unfair treatment by a ruler
c) A musical style
d) A kind of book
Answer: b) Cruel and unfair treatment by a ruler
2. Which of these is a synonym of "tyranny"?
a) Freedom
b) Oppression
c) Friendship
d) Joy
Answer: b) Oppression
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "tyranny"?
a) Despotism
b) Liberty
c) Dictatorship
d) Control
Answer: b) Liberty
4. Which sentence uses "tyranny" correctly?
a) The tyranny of the king helped the kingdom flourish.
b) The artist created a beautiful painting of tyranny.
c) The people revolted against the tyranny that constrained their freedom.
d) Everyone enjoyed the tyranny at the festival.
Answer: c) The people revolted against the tyranny that constrained their freedom.
5. Which idiom relates to the concept of "tyranny"?
a) Under the thumb of tyranny
b) As clear as day
c) To kill two birds with one stone
d) Like a fish out of water
Answer: a) Under the thumb of tyranny
