Basic Details
Word: Reef
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A submerged ridge of rock or coral near the surface of the sea.
Synonyms: Riff, ledge, barrier
Antonyms: Deep water, open sea
Idioms and Phrases
- On the reef: To be in a difficult or hopeless situation. Example: "After failing the exam twice, he felt like he was on the reef regarding his studies."
- Reef the sails: To reduce the area of a sail on a ship when there is too much wind. Example: "We had to reef the sails to prevent the boat from tipping over during the storm."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The colourful fish swam gracefully around the coral reef, creating a beautiful underwater spectacle.
Example 2: Snorkelling over the reef allowed us to see an amazing variety of marine life.
Example 3: Many tourists visit the Great Barrier Reef to enjoy its stunning beauty and diverse ecosystems.
Fun Fact
Did you know that some coral reefs can grow up to 10 centimetres each year? They are living structures made of tiny organisms that build the reef over time.
Famous Quote
"The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination, and brings eternal joy to the soul." Wyland
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "reef" mean?
a) A type of fish
b) A submerged ridge of rock or coral
c) A kind of shell
d) A type of seaweed
Answer: b) A submerged ridge of rock or coral
2. Which of these is a synonym of "reef"?
a) Mountain
b) Barrier
c) Field
d) River
Answer: b) Barrier
3. Which sentence uses "reef" correctly?
a) The reef is a great place for picnic.
b) Our boat ran aground on the reef.
c) I saw a reef in the forest.
d) The reef was filled with birds.
Answer: b) Our boat ran aground on the reef.
4. Which idiom means to be in a tough situation?
a) Reef the sails
b) On the reef
c) In hot water
d) A fish out of water
Answer: b) On the reef
5. What is the opposite of "reef"?
a) Shore
b) Open sea
c) Island
d) Sandbank
Answer: b) Open sea
