Simple Synonyms
A synonym is a word that has the same or a very similar meaning to another word. Year 3 pupils learn simple synonyms so they can vary their vocabulary in writing instead of repeating the same word, choosing a replacement word that fits the same word type and still makes sense in the sentence.
Before you start
Make sure you're comfortable with these topics first:
Method
- Read the word you want to replace and think carefully about its exact meaning.
- Brainstorm other words that mean almost the same thing.
- Check that the synonym fits the same word type, e.g. swap an adjective for another adjective.
- Read the new word back in the sentence to make sure it still makes sense.
- Use a dictionary or thesaurus to check the meaning of any tricky or unfamiliar words.
Worked example
Replace the word 'big' with a more interesting synonym in this sentence: 'We saw a big dog at the park.'
- Think about the meaning of 'big': large in size.
- Brainstorm synonyms: 'huge', 'enormous', 'large', 'giant'.
- Check that 'huge' is also an adjective, so it fits the same word type as 'big'.
- Swap it into the sentence and read it back to check it makes sense.
- Final answer: We saw a huge dog at the park.
Practice questions
Try each question, then tap to reveal the answer.
Exam-style questions
Written in the style of a English exam paper, with a full mark scheme.
Replace the word 'good' with a more powerful synonym in this sentence: 'The football match was good.'
Give three different synonyms for the word 'walked' that could each be used to describe a different way of moving.
Rewrite this sentence, replacing the words in brackets with synonyms, and explain why your choices keep the same meaning: 'The (sad) boy walked (slowly) home.'
Free printable worksheet
Want more practice on paper? Download the simple synonyms worksheet pack - 9 pages of exam-style questions with a full mark scheme. No sign-up, no email wall - just the PDF, free for personal and classroom use.
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