Basic Details
Word: Barrage
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A large amount of something, usually used to refer to intense and overwhelming questions, criticisms, or artillery fire.
Synonyms: Flood, bombardment, outpouring
Antonyms: Dribble, trickle, scarcity
Idioms and Phrases
- Barrage of questions: A situation where someone is faced with many questions all at once. Example: "During the interview, she faced a barrage of questions from the panel."
- Barrage of fire: A heavy and concentrated attack. Example: "The soldiers were trained to remain calm under a barrage of fire."
Usage Examples
Example 1: After announcing the project, the manager received a barrage of comments from the team.
Example 2: During the debate, the politician was met with a barrage of criticism regarding his policies.
Example 3: The children launched a barrage of confetti to celebrate the New Year with joy.
Fun Fact
The word "barrage" originally comes from the French word "barrage," which means "dam." It was initially used to describe a barrier to prevent flooding or to protect areas from enemy fire during wars.
Famous Quote
"In war, there is no second prize for the runner-up." Omar N. Bradley. This relates to "barrage" as it reflects the overwhelming intensity and stakes involved in combat.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "barrage" mean?
a) An empty space
b) A large amount or concentrated attack
c) A small detail
d) A quiet area
Answer: b) A large amount or concentrated attack
2. Which of these is a synonym of "barrage"?
a) Dribble
b) Flood
c) Leaf
d) Flower
Answer: b) Flood
3. What is the antonym of "barrage"?
a) Flood
b) Scarcity
c) Bombardment
d) Outpouring
Answer: b) Scarcity
4. Which sentence uses "barrage" correctly?
a) The barrage of stars shone brightly in the night sky.
b) He enjoyed a barrage of ice cream after dinner.
c) The teacher faced a barrage of questions from her eager students.
d) The barrage walked quietly in the park.
Answer: c) The teacher faced a barrage of questions from her eager students.
5. Which idiom means the same as a "barrage"?
a) A drop in the ocean
b) A barrage of questions
c) A whisper in the wind
d) A twinkling star
Answer: b) A barrage of questions
