Basic Details
Word: Facetiously
Part of Speech: Adverb
Meaning: In a way that treats serious issues with deliberately inappropriate humour; joking or jesting.
Synonyms: Jocularly, flippantly, unseriously
Antonyms: Seriously, solemnly, earnestly
Idioms and Phrases
- Facetiously speaking: Used before saying something in a joking manner. Example: "Facetiously speaking, if I had a pound for every time I made a mistake, Id be rich!"
- Taking it facetiously: Treating something lightly or not seriously. Example: "He was taking the whole situation facetiously, even when we were supposed to be serious."
Usage Examples
Example 1: When his friend said he would climb Mount Everest in slippers, he replied facetiously, "Sure, and Ill join you in my pyjamas!"
Example 2: The teacher smiled when the student facetiously suggested they should have a day off every week just for fun.
Example 3: She was being facetiously sarcastic when she said that studying for an exam was her idea of a great holiday.
Fun Fact
The word "facetious" is a combination of the Latin word "facetus," meaning "witty" or "elegant," and it originally referred to teasing in a light-hearted way. Interestingly, it is often misspelled or misused in conversation, but it can actually be quite entertaining when used correctly!
Famous Quote
"I can resist anything except temptation." - Oscar Wilde. This quote reflects a facetious view on indulgence and temptation.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "facetiously" mean?
a) Sincerely and honestly
b) In a joking or flippant manner
c) With great seriousness
d) Very thoughtfully
Answer: b) In a joking or flippant manner
2. Which of these is a synonym of "facetiously"?
a) Jokingly
b) Seriously
c) Quietly
d) Solemnly
Answer: a) Jokingly
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "facetiously"?
a) Light-heartedly
b) Earnestly
c) Witty
d) Playfully
Answer: b) Earnestly
4. Which sentence uses "facetiously" correctly?
a) She facetiously told her friend that they should swim in ice-cold water.
b) He was facetiously concerned about the weather.
c) The child facetiously ate his vegetables.
d) The dog facetiously chased its tail.
Answer: a) She facetiously told her friend that they should swim in ice-cold water.
5. Which phrase means to take something facetiously?
a) Taking it seriously
b) Taking it lightly
c) Taking it solemnly
d) Taking it preciously
Answer: b) Taking it lightly
