Basic Details
Word: Purport
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To claim or state something, often untruthfully or without evidence.
Synonyms: Claim, assert, profess
Antonyms: Deny, contradict
Idioms and Phrases
- Purport to be: To pretend to be something or someone one is not. Example: "He purports to be an expert in art, but his knowledge is quite limited."
- All that glitters is not gold: A phrase that reminds us that not everything that appears valuable is truly so, often used in discussions about those who purport wealth or success. Example: "The millionaire claimed to be successful, but all that glitters is not gold, as he struggles with debt."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The politician purports to care about the environment, but his actions tell a different story.
Example 2: She purports to have knowledge of the subject, yet her answers in class suggest otherwise.
Example 3: The book purports to provide true stories; however, many readers question its authenticity.
Fun Fact
The word "purport" comes from the Latin word "purportare," meaning "to carry forward." It originally referred to conveying a meaning or a message, which is still relevant in today's usage.
Famous Quote
"There are those who purport to be extraordinary, but their actions reveal their true character." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "purport" mean?
a) To deny something
b) To claim something
c) To discover something
d) To hide something
Answer: b) To claim something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "purport"?
a) Surprise
b) Claim
c) Reveal
d) Support
Answer: b) Claim
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "purport"?
a) Assert
b) Deny
c) Profess
d) Proclaim
Answer: b) Deny
4. Which sentence uses "purport" correctly?
a) The scientist purports his findings with detailed evidence.
b) He purports to know the answer, but he is uncertain.
c) She purports a lovely painting for sale.
d) They purport their excitement for the event.
Answer: b) He purports to know the answer, but he is uncertain.
5. Which idiom means the same as "purport to be"?
a) Be all that one can be
b) All that glitters is not gold
c) Bite off more than one can chew
d) Cry over spilt milk
Answer: b) All that glitters is not gold
