What is a synonym?

What is a synonym?

A synonym is defined as a word or phrase that has the same (or similar) meaning as another word. Both adjectives, nouns, verbs, and adverbs can have synonyms. For example:

• A synonym for the adjective “bad” would be terrible, unacceptable, poor, unsatisfactory, or inferior.
• A synonym for the noun “student” would be “scholar,” “pupil,” or “learner.”
• A synonym for the verb “cry” would be “weep,” “bawl,” or “sob.” “Shed tears” is an example of a phrase that is a synonym of the word “cry.”
• A synonym for the adverb “nervously” would be “shyly,” “anxiously,” or “timidly.”

Types of synonyms

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

Write with Confidence using Editor

Elevate your writing with real-time, intelligent assistance

Learn more

What are absolute synonyms?

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

• Car and automobile
• Coffee and java
• Dog and canine

What are partial synonyms?

Partial synonyms are words that have a similar meaning but aren’t 100% identical in meaning. If you swap out a word in a sentence for a partial synonym, your sentence will only slightly change in meaning. Here are some examples of partial synonyms:

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

Why should you use synonyms?

One of the main advantages of using synonyms is that they can help make your writing more interesting. Using the same word too many times 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. Using synonyms can also help you appear more intelligent since you’re utilizing a broader vocabulary.

Another benefit to using synonyms is that they can help you expand your vocabulary. Searing for synonyms of simple words like “big” can help you learn about new words you didn’t know existed. Associating a new word with a synonym can help make the word easier to remember. For example, you might have a hard time remembering the meaning of the word “colossal,” but remembering that it’s a synonym for the word “big” can help.

How to find synonyms

There are a few different ways that you can find synonyms. If you want to go the old-school route, you can 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 also dozens of online thesauruses that you can use to find synonyms. You can do a quick Internet search “synonym for” and insert the word you’re looking for.

You can also use Microsoft Word to help you quickly find synonyms. While you’re typing in 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, click Thesaurus to see more options.

Tips for using synonyms

If you’re planning on using a synonym in your writing, it’s wise to always research its meaning beforehand. This way, you’ll ensure that you are using the word correctly. 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, consider adding Microsoft Editor to your browser. Editor is free to use and helps you write more clearly and concisely on social media, email, and anywhere online. It can check for spelling and grammar and can also provide tone suggestions.

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