Basic Details
Word: Gratuitous
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Something that is given or done without being asked for; unnecessary or uncalled for.
Synonyms: Unnecessary, unwarranted, superfluous
Antonyms: Necessary, required, warranted
Idioms and Phrases
- Gratuitous compliment: A compliment that is given freely without prompting. Example: "Her gratuitous compliment about my painting made my day."
- Gratuitous violence: Unnecessary violence that is shown in films or shows. Example: "Many critics complained about the gratuitous violence in the action movie."
Usage Examples
Example 1: His gratuitous comments during the meeting annoyed everyone because they were not relevant to the topic at hand.
Example 2: The film was harshly reviewed due to its gratuitous use of special effects that added little to the storyline.
Example 3: While donations are appreciated, the organisation received a lot of gratuitous items that they could not use.
Fun Fact
The word "gratuitous" comes from the Latin word "gratuitus," which means "free of charge." Originally, it had a more positive connotation, relating to something given freely, but has since evolved to often describe something unnecessary.
Famous Quote
"The gratuitous use of beauty is the only true form of excellence." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "gratuitous" mean?
a) Necessary for the situation
b) Given without being asked for
c) Expensive or valuable
d) Emotionally important
Answer: b) Given without being asked for
2. Which of these is a synonym of "gratuitous"?
a) Required
b) Unnecessary
c) Essential
d) Important
Answer: b) Unnecessary
3. Which word is an antonym of "gratuitous"?
a) Superfluous
b) Warranted
c) Uncalled for
d) Unwarranted
Answer: b) Warranted
4. Which sentence uses "gratuitous" correctly?
a) The gratuitous praise helped him feel more confident about his work.
b) The meal was gratuitous, so I decided to pay for it anyway.
c) She loved gratuitous sunshine in the park.
d) All of her gratuitous actions were always planned.
Answer: a) The gratuitous praise helped him feel more confident about his work.
5. Which idiom relates to "gratuitous"?
a) Change of heart
b) Gratuitous violence
c) Birds of a feather
d) Break a leg
Answer: b) Gratuitous violence
