Basic Details
Word: Scruple
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A feeling of doubt or hesitation about doing something morally wrong.
Synonyms: Hesitation, doubt, qualm
Antonyms: Confidence, certainty
Idioms and Phrases
- Without a scruple: Doing something without any feelings of doubt or guilt. Example: "He took the money without a scruple, not caring about the consequences."
- Scruples of conscience: Feelings of guilt or moral doubt that prevent someone from doing something wrong. Example: "Her scruples of conscience stopped her from lying to her friend."
Usage Examples
Example 1: He had no scruple about cheating on the exam, showing a disregard for fairness.
Example 2: Many people wouldn't harm others, as they are guided by their scruples and sense of right and wrong.
Example 3: She raised her voice in protest, her scruples compelling her to stand up against injustice.
Fun Fact
The word "scruple" comes from the Latin word "scrupulus," which means a small stone or pebble that could nag at one's consciencejust like the feelings of doubt that trouble us in decision-making.
Famous Quote
"It is better to suffer wrong than to do it, and a man who is a man will scruple to do so." Plato
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "scruple" mean?
a) A type of dessert
b) A feeling of moral doubt
c) A kind of animal
d) A tool for measuring
Answer: b) A feeling of moral doubt
2. Which of these is a synonym of "scruple"?
a) Confidence
b) Hesitation
c) Courage
d) Joy
Answer: b) Hesitation
3. Which sentence uses "scruple" correctly?
a) She had no scruple about her decision to volunteer.
b) The scruple danced on the table.
c) He scrupled the best way to solve the puzzle.
d) They scruple to play video games all day.
Answer: a) She had no scruple about her decision to volunteer.
4. Which idiom is related to "scruple"?
a) Without a scruple
b) As easy as pie
c) A cat has nine lives
d) Break the ice
Answer: a) Without a scruple
5. What is the opposite of "scruple"?
a) Doubt
b) Certainty
c) Unease
d) Hesitation
Answer: b) Certainty
