Basic Details
Word: Idle
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Not active or not doing anything; not working or being used.
Synonyms: Unoccupied, inactive, lazy
Antonyms: Active, busy, industrious
Idioms and Phrases
- Idle hands are the devil's workshop: This phrase means that when people are not busy, they may get into trouble. Example: "He got into mischief because idle hands are the devil's workshop during summer holidays."
- On idle time: Refers to time spent doing nothing. Example: "During his on idle time, he enjoys reading his favourite books."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She felt guilty for being idle while her friends were working hard on their project.
Example 2: The machine was idle because there were no orders to fill.
Example 3: Instead of sitting idle all day, he decided to start a new hobby and learn how to paint.
Fun Fact
The word "idle" comes from the Old English word "dla," which means "lazy" or "useless." It has been used for centuries to describe someone or something that is not being active or productive.
Famous Quote
"An idle mind is a devil's workshop." - Proverb
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "idle" mean?
a) Actively working
b) Not active or doing nothing
c) Very busy
d) Excited
Answer: b) Not active or doing nothing
2. Which of these is a synonym of "idle"?
a) Unoccupied
b) Energetic
c) Busy
d) Swift
Answer: a) Unoccupied
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "idle"?
a) Lazy
b) Inactive
c) Busy
d) Unoccupied
Answer: c) Busy
4. Which sentence uses "idle" correctly?
a) The idle cat chased a mouse.
b) She sat idle while her friend made dinner.
c) The idle clock ticked loudly.
d) He is idle in his running shoes.
Answer: b) She sat idle while her friend made dinner.
5. What does the idiom "idle hands are the devil's workshop" suggest?
a) People who are busy are usually happy.
b) Doing nothing can lead to mischief.
c) Idleness leads to creativity.
d) Working hard is always rewarding.
Answer: b) Doing nothing can lead to mischief.
