Basic Details
Word: Civil
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Relating to ordinary citizens and their concerns, as opposed to military or religious matters.
Synonyms: Civic, public, societal
Antonyms: Uncivil, rude, disrespectful
Idioms and Phrases
- Civil discourse: Engaging in a respectful and constructive conversation, even if there are disagreements. Example: "The debate was filled with civil discourse, allowing all opinions to be heard."
- Civil rights: The rights of citizens to political and social freedom and equality. Example: "Many heroes fought hard for civil rights to ensure everyone was treated equally."
Usage Examples
Example 1: In a civil society, everyone has the right to express their opinions freely.
Example 2: The civil approach to resolving conflicts allowed both parties to feel respected and understood.
Example 3: It is important for leaders to encourage civil behaviour among citizens during discussions on public issues.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "civil" comes from the Latin word "civilis," which means "relating to a citizen"? It's also connected to the idea of being courteous and polite.
Famous Quote
"Civility costs nothing, and buys everything." Mary Wortley Montagu
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "civil" mean?
a) Relating to ordinary citizens
b) Relating to animals
c) A form of government
d) A type of art
Answer: a) Relating to ordinary citizens
2. Which of these is a synonym of "civil"?
a) Public
b) Hostile
c) Ignorant
d) Private
Answer: a) Public
3. What is the antonym of "civil"?
a) Respectful
b) Rude
c) Polite
d) Friendly
Answer: b) Rude
4. Which sentence uses "civil" correctly?
a) The civil war was fought over important issues in history.
b) He made a civil painting of the landscape.
c) Everyone was civil during the school competition.
d) The animal was very civil in its behaviour.
Answer: c) Everyone was civil during the school competition.
5. Which idiom relates directly to "civil"?
a) Civil discourse
b) Brush someone off
c) Played out
d) In the same boat
Answer: a) Civil discourse
