Basic Details
Word: Idiosyncrasy
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A characteristic or habit that makes someone unique or different.
Synonyms: Quirk, peculiarity, trait
Antonyms: Similarity, commonality
Idioms and Phrases
- Every man to his idiosyncrasy: Accepting that everyone has their individual quirks. Example: "In our group project, every man to his idiosyncrasy helped make it more fun!"
- Embrace your idiosyncrasies: Encouraging someone to enjoy their unique traits. Example: "Don't hide who you are; embrace your idiosyncrasies!"
Usage Examples
Example 1: Her idiosyncrasy was to always wear mismatched socks, which made her stand out in a crowd.
Example 2: Everyone in the office knew his idiosyncrasy of humming loudly while he worked on his computer.
Example 3: Idiosyncrasies can be delightful and make people more interesting to be around.
Fun Fact
The word "idiosyncrasy" comes from the Greek word "idiosynkrasia," which means "a particular temperament." It combines "idio-" meaning "distinct" and "synkrasis" meaning "mixing." This reflects how each person is a unique blend of characteristics.
Famous Quote
"It's the idiosyncrasies of friendship that give it its magic." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "idiosyncrasy" mean?
a) A common trait
b) A characteristic that makes someone unique
c) A type of food
d) A job title
Answer: b) A characteristic that makes someone unique
2. Which of these is a synonym of "idiosyncrasy"?
a) Quirk
b) Similarity
c) Boredom
d) Routine
Answer: a) Quirk
3. Which word is an antonym of "idiosyncrasy"?
a) Trait
b) Peculiarity
c) Commonality
d) Habit
Answer: c) Commonality
4. Which sentence uses "idiosyncrasy" correctly?
a) Her idiosyncrasy to write quickly made her an excellent student.
b) The idiosyncrasy of the cat was to bark loudly.
c) Idiosyncrasy means to act the same as everyone else.
d) His idiosyncrasy of collecting marbles was very strange.
Answer: d) His idiosyncrasy of collecting marbles was very strange.
5. Which idiom means to accept individual quirks?
a) Every man to his idiosyncrasy
b) A stitch in time saves nine
c) A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
d) The early bird catches the worm
Answer: a) Every man to his idiosyncrasy
