Basic Details
Word: Satire
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A way of using humour, irony, or exaggeration to criticise or mock people, ideas, or institutions.
Synonyms: Parody, sarcasm, mockery
Antonyms: Seriousness, solemnity
Idioms and Phrases
- Satire of the times: Refers to a work that cleverly critiques contemporary issues or events. Example: "The comedians latest show was a brilliant satire of the times, highlighting the absurdities in politics."
- Sharp as a satirical pen: Describes someone who writes or speaks in a clever and witty manner, often to criticise. Example: "His blog is sharp as a satirical pen, always revealing the truth behind ridiculous political claims."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The film was a brilliant satire, making fun of the characters' ridiculous behaviours in a light-hearted way.
Example 2: In her speech, she used satire to point out the flaws in the proposal without being too harsh.
Example 3: Many famous writers, such as Jonathan Swift, are known for their use of satire to provoke thought and discussion about social issues.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the term "satire" comes from the Latin word "satura," which means a mixture? This reflects how satire often blends humour with serious criticism!
Famous Quote
"Satire is the highest form of humor." - Mark Twain
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "satire" mean?
a) A type of dialogue
b) A way to use humour to critique
c) A form of dance
d) A scientific theory
Answer: b) A way to use humour to critique
2. Which of these is a synonym of "satire"?
a) Parody
b) Drama
c) Romance
d) Epic
Answer: a) Parody
3. Which word is an antonym of "satire"?
a) Irony
b) Seriousness
c) Wit
d) Creativity
Answer: b) Seriousness
4. Which sentence uses "satire" correctly?
a) The satire showed great ballet skills.
b) The book was a satire that cleverly critiqued societal norms.
c) The satire ate breakfast at the caf.
d) The satire drew a beautiful picture.
Answer: b) The book was a satire that cleverly critiqued societal norms.
5. Which idiom expresses a clever critique similar to satire?
a) Sharp as a knife
b) Sharp as a satirical pen
c) As slow as a turtle
d) Busy as a bee
Answer: b) Sharp as a satirical pen
