Basic Details
Word: Absent-minded
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Someone who often forgets things or is not paying attention to what is happening around them.
Synonyms: Forgetful, distracted, inattentive
Antonyms: Focused, attentive, alert
Idioms and Phrases
- Off in their own world: Used to describe someone who seems lost in thought and not paying attention. Example: "He was off in his own world during the class, not noticing the teacher calling his name."
- Eyes glazed over: Describes a state when someone looks unfocused or unaware. Example: "When the long lecture started, her eyes glazed over and she began to daydream."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The absent-minded professor often misplaced his notes and forgot where he parked his car.
Example 2: She is so absent-minded that she sometimes leaves her keys in the fridge.
Example 3: While studying, he became quite absent-minded, thinking about what to have for dinner instead of his homework.
Fun Fact
The term "absent-minded" dates back to the 17th century, originally describing people who became lost in thought and seemed to forget their surroundings, similar to being "absent" from reality.
Famous Quote
"The only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about." Oscar Wilde
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "absent-minded" mean?
a) Always focused
b) Forgetful and distracted
c) Very organised
d) Full of energy
Answer: b) Forgetful and distracted
2. Which of these is a synonym of "absent-minded"?
a) Alert
b) Distracted
c) Charmed
d) Cheerful
Answer: b) Distracted
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "absent-minded"?
a) Forgetful
b) Focused
c) Inattentive
d) Daydreaming
Answer: b) Focused
4. Which sentence uses "absent-minded" correctly?
a) He was absent-minded during dinner and forgot to eat his food.
b) The absent-minded cat jumped on the roof.
c) The absent-minded train arrived on time.
d) She was absent-minded and did her homework perfectly.
Answer: a) He was absent-minded during dinner and forgot to eat his food.
5. Which idiom relates to being "absent-minded"?
a) Off in their own world
b) As busy as a bee
c) Cat's out of the bag
d) Break a leg
Answer: a) Off in their own world
