Basic Details
Word: Infertile
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Unable to produce offspring or unable to grow plants; not capable of reproduction.
Synonyms: Sterile, unproductive, barren
Antonyms: Fertile, productive, fruitful
Idioms and Phrases
- Infertile ground: An area or situation that cannot produce good results. Example: "Hopes for success were dashed as they realised they were working on infertile ground."
- Falling on deaf ears: Ideas or suggestions that are rejected or ignored, similar to how infertile land cannot grow crops. Example: "Her pleas for help fell on deaf ears, like planting seeds on infertile soil."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The farmers were disappointed when they discovered the land they bought was infertile and could not support crops.
Example 2: Many species of plants struggle to grow on the infertile volcanic rock.
Example 3: Infertile couples often seek medical advice to understand their options.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "infertile" originates from the Latin word "infertilis," where "in-" means "not" and "fertilis" means "fruitful"? It emphasises the inability to produce something valuable, be it crops or offspring.
Famous Quote
"There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure." Colin Powell
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "infertile" mean?
a) Able to produce many offspring
b) Unable to produce offspring
c) Strong and healthy
d) Growing quickly
Answer: b) Unable to produce offspring
2. Which of these is a synonym of "infertile"?
a) Productive
b) Sterile
c) Fruity
d) Lively
Answer: b) Sterile
3. Which word is an antonym of "infertile"?
a) Barren
b) Unproductive
c) Fertile
d) Strained
Answer: c) Fertile
4. Which sentence uses "infertile" correctly?
a) The infertile soil produced an abundant harvest.
b) They found the infertile land could not support any crops.
c) The infertile plant grew beautifully in the garden.
d) Infertile animals are known for their high productivity.
Answer: b) They found the infertile land could not support any crops.
5. Which idiom relates to the concept of "infertile"?
a) Infertile ground
b) A dime a dozen
c) Beating around the bush
d) The ball is in your court
Answer: a) Infertile ground
