What is a synonym? Synonym definition, examples, and more

Understanding synonyms

A synonym is a word or phrase with the same (or similar) meaning as another word. Adjectives, nouns, verbs, and adverbs can all have synonyms. For example:

• Synonyms for the adjective “bad” include “terrible,” “unacceptable,” “poor,” “unsatisfactory,” and “inferior.”
• Synonyms for the noun “student” are “scholar,” “pupil,” and “learner.”
• Synonyms for the verb “cry” include “weep,” “bawl,” and “sob.” “Shed tears” is an example of a phrase synonym.
• Synonyms for the adverb “nervously” include “shyly,” “anxiously,” and “timidly.”
• Synonyms for the adjective “amazing” include “spectacular,” “fantastic”, and “awesome.”

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Types of synonyms

There are two primary types of synonyms: absolute synonyms and partial synonyms.

What are absolute synonyms?

An absolute synonym refers to two words that have the exact same meaning. Absolute synonyms can be swapped in a sentence without changing its meaning. They’re less common than partial synonyms. Here are some examples of absolute synonyms:

• Big and large
• Lawyer and attorney
• Close and shut
• Begin and start

What are partial synonyms?

Partial synonyms are words that have a similar but not entirely identical meaning. If you swap out a word in a sentence for a partial synonym, the meaning of your sentence will only slightly change. Some examples of partial synonyms include:

• Wet and damp
• Storm and hurricane
• Mother and parent
• Searing and scorching

Why should you use synonyms?

Synonyms make your writing more interesting. Frequently using the same word in your writing can bore your readers. For example, if you’re writing an essay on an amazing painter, you could use words like “brilliant,” “mind-blowing,” “incredible,” and “fascinating” to describe them.

Searching for synonyms and using them in sentences expands your vocabulary. It’s easier to remember new words through synonyms. For example, you might have a hard time remembering the meaning of the word “colossal,” but knowing it’s a synonym of “big” makes it easier to recall.

How to find synonyms

You can find synonyms multiple ways. If you want to go the old-school route, use a thesaurus, which is similar to a dictionary. With a thesaurus, you can look up the meaning of a word to find synonyms. There are dozens of online thesauruses to choose from. Simply do a quick internet search of “synonym for” followed by the word you’re looking for.

You can also use Microsoft Word to help you quickly find synonyms. While you’re using Word, simply highlight and right-click a word, then hover over Synonyms. A few different synonyms will show up on the menu. If you aren’t happy with any of the options, select Thesaurus to see more options.

AI is another great choice and can give you multiple synonyms in seconds with a single prompt.

Tips for using synonyms

Always research the meaning of a synonym before using it in your writing; otherwise, you distort the true meaning of what you’re trying to say. For example, the internet may tell you that “handsome” is a synonym for “pretty,” but your girlfriend might be offended if you call her “handsome” since this word is typically used to describe men.

It’s also important to note that using synonyms can still get you in trouble for plagiarism. Some students think that by changing up the original author’s sentences with synonyms, they’re not plagiarizing, but this is simply not the case. It’s important to use citations and explain concepts in your own words.

Strengthen your writing

If you want to improve your writing, add Microsoft Editor to your browser. Editor is free and helps you write more clearly and concisely on social media, email, and anywhere online. Use it to check for spelling and grammar and get tone suggestions.

Up next, explore what an antonym is and why they’re important for your writing.