Synonyms & Antonyms – Study Notes
(Chandigarh TET – English Language)
1. What are Synonyms & Antonyms?
| Term | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Synonym | Two (or more) words that have the same or nearly the same meaning. | Happy / Joyful |
| Antonym | Two words that have opposite meanings. | Hot / Cold |
Why they matter
In the TET, recognising synonyms & antonyms helps you:
- Solve multiple‑choice questions (MCQs) where you must pick the word that fits a sentence.
- Fill in blanks accurately.
- Show a strong command of the English vocabulary expected of a teacher.
2. Key Points to Remember
| # | Point | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Context is king | The same word can have different meanings in different contexts. |
| 2 | Synonym vs. Antonym | Don’t confuse “similar” with “opposite.” |
| 3 | Part of Speech matters | A synonym may work as a noun while the target word is a verb. |
| 4 | Common patterns | |
| • Adjectives → Adjectives (e.g., “ancient” ↔ “old”) | ||
| • Adverbs → Adverbs (e.g., “quickly” ↔ “rapidly”) | ||
| • Verbs → Verbs (e.g., “begin” ↔ “start”) | ||
| 5 | Negation tricks | “Not” + adjective can turn a synonym into an antonym (“not happy” = “sad”). |
| 6 | Root words | Many synonyms/antonyms are derived from the same root (e.g., fract‑ → fracture / fracture). |
| 7 | Avoid “slippery” words | Words that look similar but are not synonyms (e.g., “affect” vs. “effect”). |
| 8 | Memorisation in clusters | Group words by theme – e.g., economics, emotions, movement. |
| 9 | Use of dictionaries | Reliable online dictionaries (Oxford, Cambridge) list synonyms/antonyms. |
| 10 | Practice with sentence‑completion | It trains you to choose the best fit in a given context. |
3. Strategies for TET Questions
| Strategy | How to Use it |
|---|---|
| A. Eliminate | Remove obviously wrong options first. Look for words that don’t fit the context. |
| B. Paraphrase | Rewrite the sentence using “synonym” or “antonym” of a key word. |
| C. Check Part of Speech | Ensure the chosen word matches the grammatical role. |
| D. Look for Cues | Words like however, consequently, although hint at antonyms. |
| E. Use “Opposite” words | When the sentence has an opposite sense, pick the antonym. |
| F. Common Test Words | Memorise “key” words that appear frequently in TET syllabi: affluent, bleak, candid, dormant, elated, ferocious, gregarious, hectic, incumbent, judicious, keen, lucid, meticulous, naive, obdurate, poignant, quintessential, redundant, serene, tangible, ubiquitous, vehement, waver, xenial, youthful, zealous. |
4. Worked Example
Question (Sample TET MCQ)
The principal’s remarks were so _____ that the class applauded.
A. admonishing
B. candid
C. enigmatic
D. temperamental
Step‑by‑step solution
- Identify the required type – We need a word that matches the meaning of “so _____ that …” This is a synonym question: find a word that fits the context of “so … that the class applauded.”
- Analyse the sentence – The principal gave a comment that caused applause → the remark was positive, open, honest, or direct.
- Check each option
- admonishing – means warning; not likely to cause applause.
- candid – means honest, open; fits the context.
- enigmatic – mysterious; not related.
- temperamental – mood‑changing; no.
- Select the correct answer – B. candid.
Why “candid” is the synonym
- Candid = honest and straightforward → “The principal’s remarks were so candid that the class applauded.”
- The others do not convey the same meaning.
5. Practice Questions (Try Before the Test)
| # | Question | Options | Correct Answer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The scientist’s explanation was _____; everyone understood it instantly. | A. perplexing B. lucid C. obscure D. ambiguous | B. lucid |
| 2 | She was _____ about the new policy, yet she complied. | A. enthusiastic B. hesitant C. indifferent D. eager | B. hesitant |
| 3 | The teacher’s demeanor was always _____, making students comfortable. | A. stern B. affable C. grim D. severe | B. affable |
| 4 | The manager’s decision was _____ of the team’s suggestions. | A. acceptance B. rejection C. acknowledgment D. consideration | B. rejection |
| 5 | *He spoke with a _____ tone that left everyone shocked |