Spell Bee Word: decline

Basic Details

Word: Decline

Part of Speech: Verb

Meaning: To refuse or become less in quantity or quality.

Synonyms: Refuse, decrease, diminish

Antonyms: Accept, increase, improve

Idioms and Phrases

1. Decline and fall: To experience a gradual decrease in success or quality. Example: "The once-thriving business is facing a decline and fall since the new management took over."
2. On the decline: To be in a state of decrease or deterioration. Example: "The population of the town is on the decline as many families move away for better opportunities."

Usage Examples

Example 1: She decided to decline the invitation to the party because she had other plans.

Example 2: The number of visitors to the museum has begun to decline during the winter months.

Example 3: He had to decline the job offer as it did not meet his expectations for salary and benefits.

Fun Fact

The word "decline" comes from the Latin word "declinare," which means to "bend away" or "turn aside." This hints at the idea of turning down an offer or diminishing in strength.

Famous Quote

"It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves." William Shakespeare This quote relates to the idea that we have the power to accept or decline opportunities in life.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. What does "decline" mean?

a) To accept something
b) To refuse or decrease
c) To celebrate
d) To increase

Answer: b) To refuse or decrease

2. Which of these is a synonym of "decline"?

a) Increase
b) Refuse
c) Embrace
d) Prosper

Answer: b) Refuse

3. Which word is an antonym of "decline"?

a) Decrease
b) Diminish
c) Increase
d) Refuse

Answer: c) Increase

4. Which sentence uses "decline" correctly?

a) He will decline the offer of extra dessert because he's full.
b) The flowers will decline quickly if they are not watered.
c) She will decline to play with her friends at the park.
d) All of the above.

Answer: d) All of the above.

5. Which idiom suggests a decrease in success?

a) On the rise
b) On the decline
c) Hit the nail on the head
d) Take it with a pinch of salt

Answer: b) On the decline