Basic Details
Word: Eccentric
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Unusual or different in a way that might be considered strange.
Synonyms: Unconventional, quirky, peculiar
Antonyms: Ordinary, conventional, normal
Idioms and Phrases
- March to the beat of your own drum: To do things in your own way, even if others don't understand. Example: "She always marched to the beat of her own drum, selecting unique outfits that no one else wore."
- Stranger than fiction: Referring to something unbelievable or bizarre that actually happened. Example: "His adventures are often stranger than fiction, as he travels to places few dare to go."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The eccentric artist painted with colours and patterns that left everyone in awe.
Example 2: His eccentric habits, like collecting vintage tea sets, made him an interesting person to talk to.
Example 3: The eccentric scientist came up with peculiar experiments that baffled his colleagues.
Fun Fact
The term "eccentric" comes from the Greek word "ekkentros," which means "out of the centre," describing things or people that are not in the usual or expected place or position. It is often used to highlight people who are unique or stand out from societal norms.
Famous Quote
"Eccentricity is not the same as originality; it is a form of originality that others do not have." - John H. Van Vliet
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "eccentric" mean?
a) Very normal
b) Different in a strange way
c) Commonplace
d) Boring
Answer: b) Different in a strange way
2. Which of these is a synonym of "eccentric"?
a) Conventional
b) Quirky
c) Normal
d) Usual
Answer: b) Quirky
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "eccentric"?
a) Peculiar
b) Quirky
c) Ordinary
d) Unconventional
Answer: c) Ordinary
4. Which sentence uses "eccentric" correctly?
a) The eccentric man bought a house that looked like a giant shoe.
b) The eccentric cat caught a fish.
c) The eccentric child was very shy.
d) The eccentric balloon floated in the air.
Answer: a) The eccentric man bought a house that looked like a giant shoe.
5. Which idiom means doing things your own way?
a) Better late than never
b) March to the beat of your own drum
c) A horse of a different colour
d) All in a day's work
Answer: b) March to the beat of your own drum
