Basic Details
Word: Desist
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To stop doing something; to cease or give up on an action.
Synonyms: Stop, cease, refrain
Antonyms: Continue, persist, proceed
Idioms and Phrases
- Desist from action: To stop or cease doing something you are currently doing. Example: "The teacher asked the students to desist from talking during the examination."
- Desist and desist: Used to tell someone to stop and back away from something they are insisting on. Example: "The coach told the players to desist and desist if they want to play well."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The company had to desist from making advertisements that misled customers.
Example 2: After realising it was not safe, the children decided to desist from climbing the tall tree.
Example 3: He was advised to desist from arguing over trivial matters to keep peace in the group.
Fun Fact
The word "desist" comes from the Latin word "desistere," which means "to stand down" or "to stop." It has been used in the English language since the 15th century!
Famous Quote
"If you want to be successful, you must learn to desist from non-productive actions." – Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "desist" mean?
a) To start something
b) To stop doing something
c) To jump up
d) To make noise
Answer: b) To stop doing something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "desist"?
a) Continue
b) Stop
c) Go
d) Begin
Answer: b) Stop
3. Which is an antonym of "desist"?
a) Cease
b) Stop
c) Persist
d) Refrain
Answer: c) Persist
4. Which sentence uses "desist" correctly?
a) He decided to desist from his unhealthy eating habits.
b) She will desist her homework after school.
c) They were asked to desist and start running.
d) The cat decided to desist on the roof.
Answer: a) He decided to desist from his unhealthy eating habits.
5. Which idiom means to stop an action?
a) Desist from action
b) Jump at the chance
c) Pulling the leg
d) Break a leg
Answer: a) Desist from action
