Basic Details
Word: Punctual
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Arriving or happening at the expected time; being on time.
Synonyms: Timely, prompt, on time
Antonyms: Late, delayed, tardy
Idioms and Phrases
- Better late than never: It's better to do something late than not at all. Example: "He arrived at the meeting half an hour late, but we all agreed that better late than never."
- Time waits for no man: Time does not stop for anyone, so you should always be punctual. Example: "If you want to succeed in this fast-paced world, remember that time waits for no man."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Jessica is very punctual; she always arrives at school before the bell rings.
Example 2: The train was punctual today, arriving exactly on schedule.
Example 3: Being punctual is important for making a good impression during job interviews.
Fun Fact
The word "punctual" comes from the Latin word "punctum," which means "point" or "dot," indicating that time has certain points that one should ideally reach on time.
Famous Quote
"Punctuality is the soul of business." – Thomas Chandler Haliburton
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "punctual" mean?
a) Arriving on time
b) Taking too long
c) Being late
d) Not taking seriously
Answer: a) Arriving on time
2. Which of these is a synonym of "punctual"?
a) Late
b) Tardy
c) Timely
d) Delayed
Answer: c) Timely
3. Which sentence uses "punctual" correctly?
a) He was punctual for his appointment and arrived early.
b) She was punctual in finishing her homework late.
c) They were punctual when they woke up at noon.
d) Being punctual means you should arrive fashionably late.
Answer: a) He was punctual for his appointment and arrived early.
4. Which idiom means it's important to be on time?
a) Time waits for no man
b) Better late than never
c) A stitch in time saves nine
d) All good things come to those who wait
Answer: a) Time waits for no man
5. What is the opposite of "punctual"?
a) Prompt
b) Timely
c) Late
d) On time
Answer: c) Late
