Rife

Adjective

Definition: Widespread or prevalent, often with negative connotations.

Synonyms: Common, Widespread, Prevalent, Abundant, Rampant

Antonyms: Scarce, Rare, Uncommon

Examples:
  • Corruption is rife in that country.
  • During the pandemic, misinformation was rife on social media.
Mnemonics:
  • "Rife" sounds like "life," and just as life is everywhere, so is something that is "rife" - it's widespread.

Etymology:

Origin:

Old English 'rife', meaning "abundant" or "plentiful".

Historical Usage:

The word has been in use since at least the 12th century, and its meaning has remained consistent over time.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Rife with"

Explanation:

Indicates that something is filled or abundant with a particular quality or characteristic. Example

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "rife" with "ripe".

Explanation:

"Rife" and "ripe" have different meanings - "rife" indicates prevalence or abundance, while "ripe" indicates readiness for picking or maturity.

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