Synonyms
Selecting the word closest in meaning to a given word
Explanation
The Synonym Question
Half of Verbal Reasoning on the Lower ISEE is synonyms. You see one word in capitals and choose the answer that is closest in meaning.
Example:
TRANQUIL
(A) noisy (B) peaceful (C) crowded (D) sturdy
→ Answer: (B) peaceful
Vocabulary is tested at a 5th–6th grade level, so words may be unfamiliar. Having strategies is essential.
Vocabulary Strategies
- Use the word in a sentence you know — if you've heard it before, recall the context.
- Positive / Negative charge: Decide if the word feels positive, negative, or neutral. Eliminate choices with the wrong charge.
- Degree: Some words are stronger versions of others (e.g., furious is stronger than annoyed). Match the degree.
- Eliminate clearly wrong answers first, then guess from what remains.
Word Roots, Prefixes & Suffixes
| Root/Prefix | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| bene- | good | benefit, benevolent |
| mal- | bad | malicious, malfunction |
| -phobia | fear of | claustrophobia, acrophobia |
| -logy | study of | biology, geology |
| pre- | before | predict, precede |
| trans- | across | transport, transfer |
| chron- | time | chronological, synchronise |
| aud- | hear/sound | audible, audience |
Tips for Test Day
- If you know two choices could work, pick the most precise match.
- Don't be misled by words that sound similar to the stem (e.g., amiable ≠ amiably).
- Build vocabulary daily: read widely and look up unfamiliar words.
Practice Questions
Test your knowledge of Synonyms with a timed quiz.
Take Quiz →Topics in Verbal Reasoning