Basic Details
Word: Discourse
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: Written or spoken communication or debate.
Synonyms: Conversation, discussion, dialogue
Antonyms: Silence, muteness, reticence
Idioms and Phrases
- Discourse on something: To speak or write about a particular topic in detail. Example: "She loves to discourse on the importance of reading for children."
- Engaging in discourse: Having an active discussion or conversation. Example: "The students were engaging in discourse about their favourite books."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The professor's discourse on climate change was both enlightening and thought-provoking.
Example 2: During the classroom discussion, the students engaged in meaningful discourse about their views on the book.
Example 3: The politician delivered a powerful discourse that captured the attention of everyone in the audience.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "discourse" comes from the Latin word "discurrere," which means "to run to and fro"? This reflects how discussions often move back and forth between speakers!
Famous Quote
"To be a good leader, you must be a good communicator; discourse is the key to understanding." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "discourse" mean?
a) A type of food
b) Written or spoken communication
c) A mathematical term
d) A kind of music
Answer: b) Written or spoken communication
2. Which of these is a synonym of "discourse"?
a) Silence
b) Dialogue
c) Laughter
d) Applause
Answer: b) Dialogue
3. Which word is an antonym of "discourse"?
a) Communication
b) Conversation
c) Muteness
d) Discussion
Answer: c) Muteness
4. Which sentence uses "discourse" correctly?
a) The dogs engaged in a lively discourse.
b) The teacher encouraged students to discourse about their ideas freely.
c) The discourse was set for tomorrow morning.
d) We will listen to a discourse of music today.
Answer: b) The teacher encouraged students to discourse about their ideas freely.
5. What does "discourse on something" mean?
a) To argue about something
b) To speak or write about a topic in detail
c) To be silent
d) To walk away
Answer: b) To speak or write about a topic in detail
