Basic Details
Word: Nearly
Part of Speech: Adverb
Meaning: Almost, but not quite; very close to a certain point.
Synonyms: Almost, virtually, practically
Antonyms: Completely, entirely, wholly
Idioms and Phrases
- Nearly drove me mad: Refers to something that was very frustrating or annoying. Example: "The constant noise from the construction site nearly drove me mad!"
- Nearly there: A phrase indicating that one is close to achieving something or arriving at a destination. Example: "We're nearly there, just a few more steps and well reach the top of the hill."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She nearly finished her homework before dinner but decided to take a break.
Example 2: The kitten nearly caught the mouse, but it escaped just in time.
Example 3: He nearly missed the bus and had to run to catch it.
Fun Fact
The word "nearly" comes from the Old English "nah," which means "near." It has been used in English for centuries to describe proximity, either in distance or time.
Famous Quote
"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts." Winston S. Churchill. This quote reminds us that reaching success is nearly a continual journey.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "nearly" mean?
a) Completely
b) Almost
c) Sometimes
d) Rarely
Answer: b) Almost
2. Which of these is a synonym of "nearly"?
a) Entirely
b) Practically
c) Rarely
d) Always
Answer: b) Practically
3. What is the opposite of "nearly"?
a) Completely
b) Somewhat
c) Often
d) Never
Answer: a) Completely
4. Which sentence uses "nearly" correctly?
a) She was nearly finished with her painting when her brush broke.
b) The dog nearly flies in the sky.
c) He nearly swims faster than a fish.
d) They nearly read a book last night.
Answer: a) She was nearly finished with her painting when her brush broke.
5. What does "nearly drove me mad" mean?
a) Something was very funny.
b) Something was very sad.
c) Something was very frustrating.
d) Something was very exciting.
Answer: c) Something was very frustrating.
