8 Questions
What is the primary purpose of using synonyms in language?
To add variety to language and avoid repetition
Which type of synonym has exactly the same meaning as another word or phrase?
Perfect synonym
What is the characteristic of synonyms that refers to their shared emotional or attitudinal connotations?
Connotative similarity
What is the term for a reference book or online tool that provides lists of synonyms?
Thesaurus
When using synonyms, what should be considered to ensure effective communication?
The context of the situation
What is the risk of using synonyms excessively?
Repetition and ambiguity
What is the characteristic of synonyms that refers to their shared grammatical and collocational patterns?
Collocational similarity
What is the term for words that have similar but not identical meanings, often with subtle differences in connotation or nuance?
Near synonyms
Study Notes
Definition and Purpose
- A synonym is a word or phrase that has the same or nearly the same meaning as another word or phrase.
- Synonyms are used to:
- Add variety to language and avoid repetition
- Convey nuances of meaning
- Enhance precision and clarity in communication
Types of Synonyms
- Perfect synonyms: Words that have exactly the same meaning and can be used interchangeably in all contexts.
- Near synonyms: Words that have similar but not identical meanings, often with subtle differences in connotation or nuance.
- Contextual synonyms: Words that are synonymous only in specific contexts or situations.
Characteristics of Synonyms
- Semantic similarity: Synonyms share a common meaning or sense.
- Collocational similarity: Synonyms often have similar grammatical and collocational patterns.
- Connotative similarity: Synonyms may have similar emotional or attitudinal connotations.
Examples of Synonyms
- Happy: joyful, cheerful, delighted, thrilled
- Big: large, huge, enormous, gigantic
- Run: sprint, dash, hurry, rush
Using Synonyms Effectively
- Use a thesaurus: A reference book or online tool that provides lists of synonyms.
- Consider context: Choose synonyms that fit the specific situation and audience.
- Avoid overuse: Use synonyms judiciously to avoid repetition and maintain clarity.
Synonyms: Definition and Purpose
- Synonyms are words or phrases with the same or nearly the same meaning as another word or phrase.
- They are used to add variety to language, convey nuances of meaning, and enhance precision and clarity in communication.
Types of Synonyms
- Perfect synonyms: Words with exactly the same meaning and can be used interchangeably in all contexts.
- Near synonyms: Words with similar but not identical meanings, often with subtle differences in connotation or nuance.
- Contextual synonyms: Words that are synonymous only in specific contexts or situations.
Characteristics of Synonyms
- Semantic similarity: Synonyms share a common meaning or sense.
- Collocational similarity: Synonyms often have similar grammatical and collocational patterns.
- Connotative similarity: Synonyms may have similar emotional or attitudinal connotations.
Examples of Synonyms
- Happy: joyful, cheerful, delighted, thrilled
- Big: large, huge, enormous, gigantic
- Run: sprint, dash, hurry, rush
Effective Use of Synonyms
- Use a thesaurus to find suitable synonyms.
- Consider the context and audience when choosing synonyms.
- Avoid overusing synonyms to maintain clarity and avoid repetition.
Learn about synonyms, their purpose, and types, including perfect and near synonyms, to enhance your language skills and communication.
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