Basic Details
Word: Obscurity
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The state of being unclear or difficult to understand; not known or noticed.
Synonyms: Unclear, darkness, ambiguity
Antonyms: Clarity, fame, prominence
Idioms and Phrases
- In obscurity: To be hidden or not well known. Example: "The artist worked for years in obscurity before his paintings gained recognition."
- Out of obscurity: To become known after being unknown. Example: "The novel helped the author rise out of obscurity and become famous."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Despite the obscurity of his early work, his later paintings received great acclaim.
Example 2: The ancient manuscript fell into obscurity for centuries before being discovered in a library.
Example 3: Many talented musicians start their careers in obscurity, slowly building their fan base.
Fun Fact
The word "obscurity" comes from the Latin word "obscuritas," which means darkness or dimness. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century!
Famous Quote
"The greater the artist, the greater the doubt. Perfect confidence is granted to the less talented as a consolation prize." Robert Hughes, highlighting how many talented individuals begin in obscurity before achieving recognition.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "obscurity" mean?
a) A clear understanding
b) The state of being unknown or unclear
c) A type of fruit
d) A loud noise
Answer: b) The state of being unknown or unclear
2. Which of these is a synonym of "obscurity"?
a) Clarity
b) Ambiguity
c) Relationship
d) Celebration
Answer: b) Ambiguity
3. What is the opposite of "obscurity"?
a) Celebrity
b) Mystery
c) Confusion
d) Darkness
Answer: a) Celebrity
4. Which sentence uses "obscurity" correctly?
a) The obscurity of the forest made it hard to find the way.
b) She painted in obscurity every day.
c) The obscurity of the cake made everyone happy.
d) I could see the obscurity flying in the sky.
Answer: a) The obscurity of the forest made it hard to find the way.
5. What does "coming out of obscurity" mean?
a) Becoming forgotten
b) Being unknown and becoming known
c) Losing a competition
d) Traveling to a new country
Answer: b) Being unknown and becoming known
