Page 16 - Basic English Grammar Student Textbook short

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

Synonyms are words that have the same or nearly the same meaning.

Do you desire to become a better writer and speaker? Because there are so many words to choose from in the
English language, good writers and speakers of the English language work hard to find the most exact and
interesting words to use. Because English is a very exact language, most of us - as readers and listeners - enjoy
words that help us understand and visualize things more clearly.

The following words mean almost the same thing, but which word would help the reader to "see" a more clear,
exact picture?
see watch stare look

Think of as many synonyms as you can think of for the word eat.
Practice: Synonyms. When you know several words that mean the same thing, choose the word that is
the most specific. Underline the synonym in each group that is the most specific.

Example: relative sister sibling

The correct answer is sister because there are numerous types of relatives: aunt, uncle, grandparents, parents,
siblings, cousins, etc. There are two types of siblings: sister or brother. Therefore, sister is the most exact word
of the three.

1. good nice polite
2. meat poultry chicken
3. carrot plant vegetable
4. move walk limp
5. sound song hymn
6. drums bongo instrument
7. music hymn verse

Antonyms
Antonyms are words that have the opposite meaning, and at times it is helpful to know a word that is the
opposite meaning of another word. A knowledge of antonyms also helps you explain things more clearly. For
example, a native English speaker could show you the meaning of the word facetious by telling you that it is the
same as sarcastic or witty or funny; it is also the opposite of serious.

Practice: How is your vocabulary? Choose a corresponding antonym from the following list. Use your
dictionary or thesaurus as necessary.
sorrow wide twisted obscure petite prudent trivial diminish

Can you think of other antonyms?

1. foolish
2. large
3. well known
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