Basic Details
Word: Misery
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A state of great discomfort or unhappiness.
Synonyms: Suffering, distress, pain, unhappiness
Antonyms: Happiness, joy, contentment
Idioms and Phrases
- Misery loves company: People who are unhappy often seek out others who are also unhappy. Example: "Even though they were all sad, they found comfort together because misery loves company."
- In the throes of misery: To be deeply affected by suffering or discomfort. Example: "During the rainy season, he was often in the throes of misery due to the cold and wet conditions."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The constant noise from the construction outside brought her great misery and made it difficult to concentrate.
Example 2: He expressed his misery when his favourite team lost the match.
Example 3: After the storm, the community was in misery as many homes were damaged and needed repairs.
Fun Fact
The word "misery" comes from the Latin word "miseria," which means "wretchedness" or "sadness." It has been used in English since the late 14th century to describe a state of unhappiness.
Famous Quote
"There is no misery like the misery of having everything but money." Josh Billings
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "misery" mean?
a) A feeling of complete satisfaction
b) A state of great discomfort or unhappiness
c) A type of celebration
d) A joyful event
Answer: b) A state of great discomfort or unhappiness
2. Which of these is a synonym of "misery"?
a) Joy
b) Happiness
c) Suffering
d) Peace
Answer: c) Suffering
3. What is an antonym for "misery"?
a) Sadness
b) Pain
c) Happiness
d) Distress
Answer: c) Happiness
4. Which sentence uses "misery" correctly?
a) She danced in misery after winning the contest.
b) He found himself in misery when he lost his favourite book.
c) The sun shone with misery in the sky.
d) The misery of a sunny day made him complain.
Answer: b) He found himself in misery when he lost his favourite book.
5. What does "misery loves company" mean?
a) Happy people enjoy solitude.
b) Those who are unhappy often prefer to surround themselves with other unhappy people.
c) Lonely people love having a big party.
d) Misery is contagious and can spread easily.
Answer: b) Those who are unhappy often prefer to surround themselves with other unhappy people.
