Basic Details
Word: Retreat
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To move back or withdraw from a situation, often to a quieter or safer place.
Synonyms: Withdraw, recede, pull back
Antonyms: Advance, move forward, approach
Idioms and Phrases
- To retreat into oneself: To become less sociable or more introverted, focusing on ones own thoughts. Example: "After the argument, she decided to retreat into herself and think things over."
- Forced to retreat: To be compelled to withdraw from a position, usually due to unfavourable circumstances. Example: "The team was forced to retreat after losing their lead in the final minutes of the game."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The hikers had to retreat back to the camp when the weather turned severe.
Example 2: After thinking about his options, he decided to retreat from the project and focus on his studies.
Example 3: The soldiers were ordered to retreat when they realised they were outnumbered by the enemy.
Fun Fact
The word "retreat" comes from the Latin word 'retreatus', which means 'to draw back or withdraw'. It has been widely used in military contexts to describe a strategic withdrawal.
Famous Quote
"In war, there is no second prize for the runner-up." - Omar N. Bradley (this quote refers to the consequences of retreating in a contest).
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "retreat" mean?
a) To move forward
b) To move back
c) To stand still
d) To laugh out loud
Answer: b) To move back
2. Which of these is a synonym of "retreat"?
a) Advance
b) Withdraw
c) Rush
d) Approach
Answer: b) Withdraw
3. Which sentence uses "retreat" correctly?
a) The team will retreat to the top of the mountain.
b) The sun will retreat at dawn.
c) The cat decided to retreat under the bed during the storm.
d) The bakery will retreat when it opens.
Answer: c) The cat decided to retreat under the bed during the storm.
4. Which idiom refers to becoming less sociable?
a) To retreat into oneself
b) To come out of the shell
c) To face the music
d) To put all your eggs in one basket
Answer: a) To retreat into oneself
5. What is the opposite of "retreat"?
a) Stay
b) Appear
c) Advance
d) Withdraw
Answer: c) Advance
