Dictionary and Thesaurus Skills — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
A thesaurus lists words in order from most common to least common.
Corrected: A thesaurus lists words in alphabetical order, just like a dictionary.
The corrected sentence is: "A thesaurus lists words in alphabetical order, just like a dictionary.". The original sentence "A thesaurus lists words in order from most common to least common." contained an error that needed to be fixed.
2. Fix the sentence:
Synonyms are words that have opposite meanings.
Corrected: Synonyms are words that have the same or similar meanings.
The corrected sentence is: "Synonyms are words that have the same or similar meanings.". The original sentence "Synonyms are words that have opposite meanings." contained an error that needed to be fixed.
3. Fix the sentence:
You should use a thesaurus to check the spelling of a word.
Corrected: You should use a thesaurus to find synonyms or antonyms for a word.
The corrected sentence is: "You should use a thesaurus to find synonyms or antonyms for a word.". The original sentence "You should use a thesaurus to check the spelling of a word." contained an error that needed to be fixed.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. A thesaurus helps you find words with similar meanings called synonyms .
The primary function of a thesaurus is to provide synonyms — words with the same or similar meaning.
2. Words with opposite meanings listed in a thesaurus are called antonyms .
Many thesaurus entries also include antonyms, which have the opposite meaning of the entry word.
3. Using a thesaurus can make your writing more interesting by adding variety .
Replacing repeated words with synonyms adds vocabulary variety and makes writing more engaging.
4. If you keep repeating the same word, a thesaurus helps you find a replacement .
A thesaurus provides word replacements to avoid repetition and strengthen writing voice.
Part C: Short Answer
Answer each question in one or two complete sentences.
1. What is the main difference between a dictionary and a thesaurus?
Sample answer: A dictionary gives the meaning, pronunciation, and part of speech of a word, while a thesaurus gives synonyms and antonyms to help you find alternative words.
Both tools support vocabulary development but serve distinct purposes — definition vs. word choice.
2. Why might a writer use a thesaurus when revising a paragraph?
Sample answer: A writer uses a thesaurus to replace overused words with more precise or interesting synonyms, which makes the writing clearer and more engaging.
Revision is the ideal time to consult a thesaurus to upgrade word choices and eliminate repetition.