Basic Details
Word: Unpretentious
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Simple and not trying to impress others; genuine and modest.
Synonyms: Modest, humble, simple
Antonyms: Pretentious, ostentatious, showy
Idioms and Phrases
- Keep it unpretentious: To remain simple and genuine without trying to impress others. Example: "He always says to keep it unpretentious, focusing on the joy of the moment rather than the glamour."
- Unpretentious charm: A quality that attracts others without being flashy or overly sophisticated. Example: "Her unpretentious charm made everyone feel at ease during the gathering."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The unpretentious café down the street serves the best coffee in town, loved for its warm atmosphere.
Example 2: Despite being a famous artist, his unpretentious manner made him very approachable.
Example 3: Their wedding was a lovely affair, filled with unpretentious decorations and heartfelt moments.
Fun Fact
The term "unpretentious" was first used in the mid-20th century as a way to describe people or things that do not show off or exaggerate their worth, emphasising simplicity and authenticity.
Famous Quote
"The greatest ideas are the simplest." William Golding
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "unpretentious" mean?
a) Trying to impress others
b) Simple and genuine
c) Bright and flashy
d) Very complicated
Answer: b) Simple and genuine
2. Which of these is a synonym of "unpretentious"?
a) Showy
b) Humble
c) Complicated
d) Elaborate
Answer: b) Humble
3. What is the opposite of "unpretentious"?
a) Simple
b) Modest
c) Pretentious
d) Sincere
Answer: c) Pretentious
4. Which sentence uses "unpretentious" correctly?
a) The unpretentious artist always wore expensive clothing.
b) The unpretentious home felt welcoming and warm.
c) The unpretentious party had a fancy dress code.
d) The unpretentious car was flashy and loud.
Answer: b) The unpretentious home felt welcoming and warm.
5. Which idiom means to be simple and genuine like "unpretentious"?
a) Keep it unpretentious
b) A dress to impress
c) All dressed up and nowhere to go
d) The more the merrier
Answer: a) Keep it unpretentious
