Basic Details
Word: Brakes
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A device used to slow down or stop a vehicle or machine.
Synonyms: Stoppers, slowing devices
Antonyms: Accelerators, go-pedals
Idioms and Phrases
- Hit the brakes: To suddenly slow down or stop an action. Example: "When I saw the dog in the road, I had to hit the brakes quickly."
- Put the brakes on: To stop or slow down progress or activity. Example: "Due to heavy rain, the team had to put the brakes on their picnic plans."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The driver pressed the brakes firmly to avoid a collision with the car ahead.
Example 2: It is important to check your brakes regularly to ensure they are working properly.
Example 3: When going downhill, you should use your brakes gently to maintain control of the vehicle.
Fun Fact
The term "brake" comes from the Old English word "bracan," which means "to break." The first brakes were simple wooden blocks that pressed against the wheels of carts.
Famous Quote
"Just like in driving, sometimes you need to hit the brakes in life, step back, and reassess." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "brakes" mean?
a) A device to speed up
b) A device to slow down or stop
c) A type of fruit
d) A part of a musical instrument
Answer: b) A device to slow down or stop
2. Which of these is a synonym of "brakes"?
a) Stoppers
b) Engines
c) Wheels
d) Seats
Answer: a) Stoppers
3. Which sentence uses "brakes" correctly?
a) She filled the car with petrol and checked the brakes.
b) The brakes were dancing at the concert.
c) The brakes drew a picture in class.
d) The brakes flew into the sky.
Answer: a) She filled the car with petrol and checked the brakes.
4. Which idiom means to abruptly stop an action?
a) Put the brakes on
b) Hit the gas
c) Drive off
d) Take the wheel
Answer: a) Put the brakes on
5. What is the opposite of "brakes"?
a) Stoppers
b) Accelerators
c) Roadblocks
d) Controllers
Answer: b) Accelerators
