Basic Details
Word: Mercy
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: Kindness or forgiveness shown to someone who could be treated harshly.
Synonyms: Compassion, clemency, pardon
Antonyms: Cruelty, harshness, punishment
Idioms and Phrases
- Have mercy on someone: To show kindness or compassion to someone in a difficult situation. Example: "Even though he made a mistake, the teacher had mercy on him and gave him another chance."
- Throw yourself on the mercy of the court: To appeal to a judge for a lenient punishment. Example: "The defendant threw himself on the mercy of the court, hoping for a lighter sentence."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The kindness she showed to the stray dog was an act of mercy that warmed everyone's hearts.
Example 2: The king decided to show mercy to the captured soldiers instead of punishing them.
Example 3: Asking for mercy is a powerful gesture, especially when someone has made a significant mistake.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word 'mercy' comes from the Latin word 'merces', which means 'reward' or 'wages'? It evolved to represent the idea of kindness and compassion towards others.
Famous Quote
"Mercy is commendable in those who are in a position to punish." - Joseph Addison
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "mercy" mean?
a) Strictness
b) Kindness or forgiveness
c) Anger
d) Happiness
Answer: b) Kindness or forgiveness
2. Which of these is a synonym of "mercy"?
a) Pity
b) Anger
c) Wealth
d) Trouble
Answer: a) Pity
3. Which word is an antonym of "mercy"?
a) Compassion
b) Cruelty
c) Kindness
d) Generosity
Answer: b) Cruelty
4. Which sentence uses "mercy" correctly?
a) She showed mercy by sharing her lunch with others.
b) Mercy is a fast runner.
c) He painted mercy on the wall.
d) The mercy flew away.
Answer: a) She showed mercy by sharing her lunch with others.
5. Which idiom involves "mercy"?
a) Have mercy on someone
b) Run out of steam
c) Hit the nail on the head
d) A penny for your thoughts
Answer: a) Have mercy on someone
