Reading Theme:
Mystery Definition, Examples & Usage Guide
Meaning 1:something puzzling or unknown (Mystery)
Mystery
/ˈmɪstəri/
n.
Something that is hard to understand or explain, like a secret or a fun puzzle.
something puzzling or unknown
➕
/ˈsʌmθɪŋ ˈpʌzlɪŋ ɔːr ʌnˈnoʊn/
n.
Something that is difficult to understand or explain, often involving an element of secrecy or intrigue that invites investigation or curiosity.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Greek 'mysterion' (secret rite), from 'myein' (to close, as in lips or eyes).
💡 Mnemonic
'My' story is a 'mystery' – I close my eyes (myein) to secrets.
📖 Example
The mystery of how dolphins communicate underwater is still a topic of exciting research for marine biologists.
The mystery of how dolphins communicate underwater is still a topic of exciting research for marine biologists.
🔗 Collocations
solve a mystery – to find an explanation for something puzzling
remain a mystery – to continue to be unexplained
shrouded in mystery – kept secret or hidden from understanding
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
mysterious (adj.) – Difficult or impossible to understand or explain.
mystically (adv.) – In a way that relates to mysteries or hidden meaning.
mystify (v.) – To completely confuse or bewilder someone.
📖 Cultural Story
Mystery originates from Greek 'mysterion' meaning secret religious rites. Its sense evolved from hidden religious knowledge to any unexplained phenomenon.
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