Basic Details
Word: Evolution
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The process by which living things change over a long period, leading to new species and traits.
Synonyms: Development, progression, transformation
Antonyms: Stagnation, regression
Idioms and Phrases
- Evolution of thought: The gradual development of ideas and beliefs over time. Example: "The evolution of thought on climate change shows how awareness has increased in recent years."
- Survival of the fittest: The idea that only the strongest individuals or species survive in a changing environment. Example: "In the competition for resources, it's truly a survival of the fittest among the animals."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The evolution of the horse from a small, forest-dwelling creature to the large animal we see today took millions of years.
Example 2: Scientists study fossils to understand the evolution of different species and how they adapted to their environments.
Example 3: The evolution of technology has greatly influenced how we communicate with each other today.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the theory of evolution was first popularised by Charles Darwin in the 19th century? His work, especially in "On the Origin of Species," revolutionised the way we understand the natural world.
Famous Quote
"It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change." Charles Darwin
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "evolution" mean?
a) A sudden change
b) A process of gradual development
c) A fixed state
d) A type of music
Answer: b) A process of gradual development
2. Which of these is a synonym of "evolution"?
a) Stagnation
b) Transformation
c) Repetition
d) Disruption
Answer: b) Transformation
3. What is the opposite of "evolution"?
a) Progression
b) Stagnation
c) Development
d) Growth
Answer: b) Stagnation
4. Which sentence uses "evolution" correctly?
a) The evolution of the car made it faster than ever.
b) The evolution of the dinosaur was very quick.
c) The island experienced an evolution in its weather patterns.
d) The evolution of species takes a long time to observe.
Answer: d) The evolution of species takes a long time to observe.
5. What does the phrase "survival of the fittest" mean?
a) Everyone is equally strong.
b) Only the strongest or best adapted survive.
c) All animals will survive.
d) Strength is not important in nature.
Answer: b) Only the strongest or best adapted survive.
