Basic Details
Word: Brainstorm
Part of Speech: Verb (also used as a noun)
Meaning: To think of ideas or solutions to problems, often in a group setting.
Synonyms: Ideate, conceptualise, think up
Antonyms: Dismiss, ignore
Idioms and Phrases
- Too many cooks spoil the broth: This means that having too many people involved in a task can lead to confusion and problems. Example: "When we tried to brainstorm ideas for the project, too many cooks spoiled the broth, and we couldnt agree."
- Hit the nail on the head: To be exactly right about something or to find the exact answer. Example: "After hours of brainstorming, she finally hit the nail on the head with her suggestion."
Usage Examples
Example 1: During the meeting, we decided to brainstorm some creative solutions to improve our school garden.
Example 2: The teacher encouraged the students to brainstorm ideas for their science fair project as a group.
Example 3: After a long session of brainstorming, we came up with a fantastic plan for our end-of-year party.
Fun Fact
Did you know the term "brainstorm" was first coined in the 1930s by advertising executive Alex Osborn? He believed that brainstorming in groups could lead to more innovative ideas.
Famous Quote
"Creativity is thinking up new things. Innovation is doing new things." Theodore Levitt
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "brainstorm" mean?
a) To keep quiet and think
b) To think of ideas or solutions
c) To ignore a problem
d) To take a nap
Answer: b) To think of ideas or solutions
2. Which of these is a synonym of "brainstorm"?
a) Ideate
b) Sleep
c) Write
d) Sing
Answer: a) Ideate
3. Which word is an antonym of "brainstorm"?
a) Dismiss
b) Think
c) Create
d) Suggest
Answer: a) Dismiss
4. Which sentence uses "brainstorm" correctly?
a) We decided to brainstorm before we finish the homework.
b) I will brainstorm my lunch today.
c) The students will brainstorm ideas for the school play.
d) He prefers to brainstorm when he sleeps.
Answer: c) The students will brainstorm ideas for the school play.
5. Which idiom suggests problems can arise with too many ideas?
a) Hit the nail on the head
b) Too many cooks spoil the broth
c) Every cloud has a silver lining
d) A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
Answer: b) Too many cooks spoil the broth
