It can be annoying to have the perfect word on the tip of the tongue and not be able to come up with the word, usually a synonym of the word in mind. Synonyms are words with almost the same meaning as another word. By increasing the number of synonyms known, vocabulary will increase, making it easier to write, to say the word with the exact intended meaning, and to score well on achievement tests. Knowing a large number of synonyms will also decrease the amount of time and frustration spent on trying to think of the specific expression needed, whether it's for a writing project, composing lyrics or poetry, or speaking.
Improving Vocabulary With Synonyms
Common words frequently have many variations on meaning, including words used on achievement tests. For example a word like "odd" has among its synonyms "sundry," "singular," and "deviant." Each word has a slightly different connotation and would be used in varying situations.A thesaurus is a reference book containing synonyms and antonyms.
A good thesaurus is useful for learning synonyms. Word processing programs like Microsoft Word have thesauruses included. Free online thesauruses are another easy-to-use source for finding synonyms. Print thesauruses, such as Roget's International Thesaurus and Rodale's The Synonym Finder, are also excellent resources.
How to Use a Thesaurus
Using a thesaurus is straightforward. On a word processor, highlight the word and access the included thesaurus. A set of synonyms will appear; clicking on one will select it to replace the original word. If using an online thesaurus, type in the original word in the search box and a page of synonyms will be shown.
Print thesauruses can be more difficult because there are two main styles. In one style, the thesaurus is set up like a dictionary, with the included words in alphabetical order and the synonyms listed under the leading word. The second style is the index style, with words classified by meaning and an index is placed in the back of the book listing the words in alphabetical order, which then directs the reader to the page or pages where the word will occur.
Word Games and Activities
Create lists of words and their synonyms using a favored thesaurus. Keep in mind the different connotations synonyms can have. For example, "singular" has a positive connotation while "deviant" has a negative connotation.
Many sites offer a free "word of the day" to help improve vocabulary. Use these words to add to your synonym bank. Crossword puzzles, whether online, in newspapers, or puzzle books, also utilize synonyms and can provide practice for boosting vocabulary.
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