Basic Details
Word: Monopolize
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To take complete control of something, so that no one else can use or have it.
Synonyms: Dominate, control, dominate
Antonyms: Share, distribute, divide
Idioms and Phrases
- Monopolise the conversation: To dominate discussions without letting others speak. Example: "At the party, she tended to monopolise the conversation, making it hard for anyone else to get a word in."
- Keep all the marbles: To have control over everything, often used in games or competitions. Example: "In the debate, he seemed to keep all the marbles, as he had all the best points."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The large company tried to monopolise the market by buying out all its competitors.
Example 2: It is not fair for one player to monopolise the game, as everyone should have a chance to participate.
Example 3: The teacher reminded the students that they should not monopolise the discussion and let others share their ideas.
Fun Fact
The term "monopoly" comes from the Greek word "monopolion," which means "to sell alone." It was first used in economics during the late 19th century to describe a market situation where a single entity controls the entire supply of a product or service.
Famous Quote
"In a market economy, we are not supposed to monopolise. Competition leads to innovation and better services." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "monopolize" mean?
a) To share equally
b) To take complete control of something
c) To break something
d) To give away freely
Answer: b) To take complete control of something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "monopolize"?
a) Embarrass
b) Control
c) Embrace
d) Ignore
Answer: b) Control
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "monopolize"?
a) Expand
b) Enclose
c) Share
d) Restrict
Answer: c) Share
4. Which sentence uses "monopolize" correctly?
a) He decided to monopolize the last cookie for himself.
b) They decided to monopolize the music at the school event.
c) She tried to monopolize the toys by sharing them with everyone.
d) The chef wanted to monopolize the recipe by giving it to everyone.
Answer: a) He decided to monopolize the last cookie for himself.
5. What does the idiom "monopolise the conversation" imply?
a) To listen quietly
b) To dominate the discussion
c) To seek help from others
d) To forget what to say
Answer: b) To dominate the discussion
