Basic Details
Word: Rarely
Part of Speech: Adverb
Meaning: Not happening very often; infrequently.
Synonyms: Infrequently, seldom, occasionally
Antonyms: Often, frequently, regularly
Idioms and Phrases
- Once in a blue moon: Used to describe something that happens very rarely. Example: "We go out for dinner once in a blue moon, usually preferring to eat at home."
- Rare as hen's teeth: This phrase highlights something that's very uncommon or hard to find. Example: "A sunny day in winter is rare as hen's teeth in this part of the country."
Usage Examples
Example 1: I rarely see my old friends since we all moved to different towns.
Example 2: The teacher rarely gives homework over the weekend.
Example 3: He rarely watches television, preferring to read books instead.
Fun Fact
The word "rarely" comes from the Latin word "rarus," meaning "sparse" or "thin." It has been in use in the English language since the 14th century!
Famous Quote
"The rare find usually rewards the curious soul." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "rarely" mean?
a) Happening all the time
b) Not happening very often
c) Always present
d) Uncommon but frequent
Answer: b) Not happening very often
2. Which of these is a synonym of "rarely"?
a) Frequently
b) Infrequently
c) Normally
d) Always
Answer: b) Infrequently
3. Which of these is an antonym of "rarely"?
a) Seldom
b) Occasionally
c) Often
d) Infrequently
Answer: c) Often
4. Which sentence uses "rarely" correctly?
a) She rarely goes to the gym because she enjoys staying home.
b) He rarely eats breakfast every day.
c) They see each other rarely every weekend.
d) I visit my cousin rarely and often.
Answer: a) She rarely goes to the gym because she enjoys staying home.
5. Which idiom means something that happens very rarely?
a) Once in a blue moon
b) Every now and then
c) As busy as a bee
d) A rolling stone gathers no moss
Answer: a) Once in a blue moon
