Basic Details
Word: Colonel
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A military rank, usually above a lieutenant colonel and below a brigadier general.
Synonyms: Officer, commander, leader
Antonyms: Private, recruit
Idioms and Phrases
- Colonel of the house: A person who takes charge and maintains order in a household. Example: "Ever since her parents went away, she has become the colonel of the house, making sure everything runs smoothly."
- Like a colonel in charge: Describes someone who is very organised and in control of a situation. Example: "He managed the project like a colonel in charge, ensuring everyone met their deadlines."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The colonel addressed the troops with confidence before they set off on their mission.
Example 2: After years of hard work, she was promoted to the rank of colonel in the army.
Example 3: The young officer looked up to the colonel, admiring his dedication and leadership skills.
Fun Fact
Interestingly, the word "colonel" is derived from the Italian "colonello," which referred to a "column" of soldiers. Over time, the pronunciation changed in English, making it sound quite different from its origins!
Famous Quote
"The soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war." Douglas MacArthur
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "colonel" mean?
a) A type of music
b) A military rank
c) A kind of bird
d) A type of food
Answer: b) A military rank
2. Which of these is a synonym of "colonel"?
a) Officer
b) Teacher
c) Athlete
d) Farmer
Answer: a) Officer
3. What is the opposite of "colonel"?
a) General
b) Captain
c) Private
d) Major
Answer: c) Private
4. Which sentence uses "colonel" correctly?
a) The colonel baked a cake for the party.
b) The colonel led his regiment into battle with bravery.
c) The colonel danced at the concert.
d) The colonel swam in the river.
Answer: b) The colonel led his regiment into battle with bravery.
5. Which idiom means taking charge like a leader?
a) Like a colonel in charge
b) Come to the colonel
c) All in the same boat
d) On thin ice
Answer: a) Like a colonel in charge
