Basic Details
Word: Misfortune
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: Bad luck or a difficult situation that happens unexpectedly.
Synonyms: Misadventure, calamity, setback
Antonyms: Fortune, luck, success
Idioms and Phrases
- In the face of misfortune: To continue on bravely despite difficulties. Example: "She showed incredible strength in the face of misfortune when her family faced hard times."
- Turn misfortune into fortune: To find a way to benefit from a bad situation. Example: "After losing his job, he turned misfortune into fortune by starting his own business."
Usage Examples
Example 1: After the storm caused severe damage to their house, the family faced a great misfortune.
Example 2: Sometimes, misfortune can teach us valuable life lessons that we would not learn otherwise.
Example 3: While he thought he experienced nothing but misfortune, his friends reminded him of all the good things he still had.
Fun Fact
The word "misfortune" comes from the prefix "mis-", meaning "bad" or "wrong", and "fortune", which refers to luck. It has been used since the 14th century to denote bad luck or unpleasant circumstances.
Famous Quote
"The greatest misfortunes are those which are hidden from us." — A.J. Pentridge
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "misfortune" mean?
a) Good luck
b) A bad situation
c) A type of job
d) A happy occasion
Answer: b) A bad situation
2. Which of these is a synonym of "misfortune"?
a) Success
b) Calamity
c) Happiness
d) Advantage
Answer: b) Calamity
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "misfortune"?
a) Misadventure
b) Setback
c) Luck
d) Dilemma
Answer: c) Luck
4. Which sentence uses "misfortune" correctly?
a) He celebrated his misfortune with a party.
b) She experienced a misfortune when she lost her wallet.
c) The misfortune of winning brought him much attention.
d) I bought a misfortune from the shop.
Answer: b) She experienced a misfortune when she lost her wallet.
5. Which idiom means to bravely continue despite difficulties?
a) Turn misfortune into fortune
b) In the face of misfortune
c) Strike while the iron is hot
d) Sticks and stones may break my bones
Answer: b) In the face of misfortune
