Basic Details
Word: Feign
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To pretend or make something appear real when it isn't.
Synonyms: Pretend, simulate, fake
Antonyms: Be honest, reveal, disclose
Idioms and Phrases
- Feign ignorance: Pretending not to know something. Example: "When she asked if he broke the vase, he feigned ignorance and said he had no idea."
- Feign surprise: Acting as if one is surprised when they are not. Example: "He feigned surprise at the unexpected birthday party, even though he had known about it for weeks."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She tried to feign interest in the long lecture, but it was clear she was bored.
Example 2: He feigned a cough to get out of doing his chores.
Example 3: The child would often feign illness to stay home from school.
Fun Fact
The word "feign" comes from the Old French "feindre," which itself traces back to the Latin "fingere," meaning "to shape or form." This shows how the word has always been associated with making things appear different from reality.
Famous Quote
"Better to be hated for what you are than to be loved for what you are not." Andr Gide
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "feign" mean?
a) To create something new
b) To pretend or make something appear real
c) To explain clearly
d) To enjoy something genuinely
Answer: b) To pretend or make something appear real
2. Which of these is a synonym of "feign"?
a) Reveal
b) Pretend
c) Disclose
d) Honesty
Answer: b) Pretend
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "feign"?
a) Pretend
b) Simulate
c) Be honest
d) Fake
Answer: c) Be honest
4. Which sentence uses "feign" correctly?
a) She feigns excitement over the news she already knew.
b) He feigns to go swimming every weekend.
c) They feign the sun is shining brightly today.
d) She feigns her homework is complete.
Answer: a) She feigns excitement over the news she already knew.
5. What does the idiom "feign ignorance" mean?
a) To pretend to know something
b) To act as if one does not know something
c) To reveal a secret
d) To show great interest
Answer: b) To act as if one does not know something
