Basic Details
Word: Orchestra
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A large group of musicians playing different instruments together, usually led by a conductor.
Synonyms: Ensemble, band
Antonyms: Solo, individual
Idioms and Phrases
- All play and no work makes Jack a dull boy: This phrase suggests that one should not only focus on fun and entertainment, like enjoying music in an orchestra, but also on productive tasks. Example: "While listening to the orchestra was fun, I still had assignments to complete. All play and no work makes Jack a dull boy."
- Like herding cats: Used to describe a situation where it is difficult to get a group of people to work together smoothly, similar to coordinating an orchestra. Example: "Trying to organise the school play felt like herding cats; everyone had their ideas, just like the instruments in an orchestra."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The orchestra performed beautifully, filling the concert hall with stunning melodies.
Example 2: During the rehearsal, the conductor ensured each section of the orchestra knew their part well.
Example 3: Young musicians can learn a lot from watching a professional orchestra perform live.
Fun Fact
Did you know that orchestras can trace their origins back to ancient Greece, where groups of musicians were used to play during theatrical performances? The modern orchestra, as we know it, started to form in the 17th century!
Famous Quote
"The orchestra is a world, and it is a world of emotions." Leonard Bernstein
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "orchestra" mean?
a) A type of painting
b) A large group of musicians playing together
c) A simple song
d) A dance performance
Answer: b) A large group of musicians playing together
2. Which of these is a synonym of "orchestra"?
a) Band
b) Choir
c) Soloist
d) Performer
Answer: a) Band
3. What is the antonym of "orchestra"?
a) Choir
b) Solo
c) Ensemble
d) Group
Answer: b) Solo
4. Which sentence uses "orchestra" correctly?
a) The orchestra is cooking dinner.
b) The orchestra played a fantastic symphony during the concert.
c) The orchestra painted a beautiful picture.
d) The orchestra jumped high in the air.
Answer: b) The orchestra played a fantastic symphony during the concert.
5. What does "like herding cats" imply in relation to an orchestra?
a) It is easy to organise.
b) It is very difficult to coordinate.
c) Everyone plays perfectly together.
d) It requires no effort at all.
Answer: b) It is very difficult to coordinate.
