Basic Details
Word: Treacherous
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Dangerous or risky, especially because someone is being deceitful or not honest.
Synonyms: Hazardous, perilous, deceitful
Antonyms: Safe, trustworthy, reliable
Idioms and Phrases
- Tread cautiously on treacherous ground: To be careful in an uncertain or dangerous situation. Example: "During the negotiations, they had to tread cautiously on treacherous ground, unsure of the other party's true intentions."
- A treacherous path: A situation that seems safe but is actually very dangerous or deceptive. Example: "Choosing to invest in that business seemed wise, but it turned out to be a treacherous path that led to financial loss."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The climbers were warned about the treacherous conditions on the mountain due to the ice.
Example 2: He felt it was treacherous to trust someone who had lied before.
Example 3: The river looked calm, but the treacherous currents were hidden just beneath the surface.
Fun Fact
The word "treacherous" comes from the Latin word "traditor," which means "betrayer." It reflects the idea of being deceitful as well as dangerous.
Famous Quote
"A treacherous friend is more dangerous than a vicious enemy." - Talmud
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "treacherous" mean?
a) Safe and secure
b) Angry and upset
c) Dangerous or deceitful
d) Happy and cheerful
Answer: c) Dangerous or deceitful
2. Which of these is a synonym of "treacherous"?
a) Safe
b) Deceitful
c) Cheerful
d) Calm
Answer: b) Deceitful
3. Which word is an antonym of "treacherous"?
a) Safe
b) Risky
c) Dangerous
d) Uncertain
Answer: a) Safe
4. Which sentence correctly uses "treacherous"?
a) The treacherous snake slithered quickly across the road.
b) She found a treacherous way to the park.
c) He made a treacherous promise to help her.
d) They were warned about the treacherous ice on the pond.
Answer: d) They were warned about the treacherous ice on the pond.
5. What does "tread cautiously on treacherous ground" imply?
a) To be brave
b) To avoid danger
c) To act carelessly
d) To be reckless
Answer: b) To avoid danger
