Using a Thesaurus to Choose Precise Words

Use a thesaurus to find synonyms and pick the one with the exact meaning you need.

A thesaurus lists synonyms, words with similar meanings, and often antonyms too. It is a great tool when you want a more precise or interesting word. But synonyms are not exact copies, so you must choose carefully. Suppose you wrote 'The dog walked across the yard' and look up 'walk'. You might find stroll, march, stomp, tiptoe, and wander. Each paints a different picture.

'The dog tiptoed across the yard' suggests sneaking. 'The dog stomped across the yard' suggests anger or heavy steps. Pick the one that matches what you mean. If you are unsure what a synonym means, check it in a dictionary before using it.

• 1A thesaurus lists synonyms and antonyms.
• 2Synonyms are similar, not identical.
• 3Pick the one that paints the exact picture you mean.