Basic Details
Word: Lest
Part of Speech: Conjunction
Meaning: To prevent something from happening; for fear that something might happen.
Synonyms: In case, for fear that, so that not
Antonyms: In order to, so that
Idioms and Phrases
- For fear lest: Used to express concern about something that might happen. Example: "She kept the door locked for fear lest someone might break in."
- Speak now or forever hold your peace, lest: To give someone the opportunity to speak up now in case they regret not doing so later. Example: "I will ask if anyone has objections; speak now or forever hold your peace, lest you regret it later."
Usage Examples
Example 1: They left early for the airport, lest they miss their flight.
Example 2: She studied hard for her exam, lest she fail and have to retake the course.
Example 3: He whispered the secret to his friend, lest anyone else hear it.
Fun Fact
Did you know that “lest†comes from an Old English word that means "to be afraid"? It has been used in English literature for centuries to express caution or prevention.
Famous Quote
"The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry, lest we forget to prepare for the unexpected." - Robert Burns
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "lest" mean?
a) To promote something
b) To encourage
c) To prevent something from happening
d) To enjoy
Answer: c) To prevent something from happening
2. Which of these is a synonym of "lest"?
a) In case
b) Because
c) However
d) Even though
Answer: a) In case
3. Which sentence uses "lest" correctly?
a) She wore her jacket, lest it got cold outside.
b) He danced all night, lest he missed the concert.
c) They shouted joyfully, lest they woke the baby.
d) He stayed quiet, lest he be heard.
Answer: a) She wore her jacket, lest it got cold outside.
4. Which idiom means the same as "lest"?
a) Speak now or forever hold your peace, lest
b) As clear as mud
c) Once in a blue moon
d) The early bird catches the worm
Answer: a) Speak now or forever hold your peace, lest
5. What is the opposite of "lest"?
a) N/A
b) For instance
c) In order to
d) As if
Answer: c) In order to
