Basic Details
Word: Cruel
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Causing physical or mental pain or suffering to others; very harsh or unkind.
Synonyms: Heartless, brutal, savage
Antonyms: Kind, gentle, compassionate
Idioms and Phrases
- Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back: This phrase suggests that being curious may lead to trouble or harm, yet the knowledge gained can be rewarding. Example: "She was too curious about the cruel treatment of animals in the circus; curiosity killed the cat, but now she is a vocal advocate for animal rights."
- What goes around comes around: This idiom implies that actions, whether good or bad, will eventually return to affect the original doer. Example: "He was cruel to his classmates, but remember, what goes around comes around, and one day he might be treated the same way."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The cruel king imposed heavy taxes on his people, making their lives miserable.
Example 2: Bullying is a cruel act that can leave lasting scars on victims.
Example 3: She found it hard to understand why anyone would be cruel to animals.
Fun Fact
The word "cruel" comes from the Latin word "crudelis," which means "rude" or "rough." Over time, it evolved to describe someone who inflicts pain or suffering on others.
Famous Quote
"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." - Edmund Burke
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "cruel" mean?
a) Kind and gentle
b) Causing pain or suffering
c) Happy and cheerful
d) Quiet and calm
Answer: b) Causing pain or suffering
2. Which of these is a synonym of "cruel"?
a) Compassionate
b) Heartless
c) Gentle
d) Friendly
Answer: b) Heartless
3. Which sentence uses "cruel" correctly?
a) The cruel sun was shining brightly.
b) He made a cruel joke that upset her.
c) The flowers looked cruel in the garden.
d) She felt cruel while resting peacefully.
Answer: b) He made a cruel joke that upset her.
4. Which idiom suggests that actions will come back to haunt one?
a) Curiosity killed the cat
b) What goes around comes around
c) A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
d) The early bird catches the worm
Answer: b) What goes around comes around
5. What is the opposite of "cruel"?
a) Brutal
b) Heartless
c) Kind
d) Savage
Answer: c) Kind
