Synonyms and Antonyms — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. After the storm, the tired hikers found a sheltered place to rest under the dry pine trees.
Sheltered fits the context of escaping the storm; a thesaurus shows it gives a more precise shade of meaning than safe.
2. The detective noticed a subtle clue that no one else had spotted on the dusty bookshelf.
Subtle is the precise synonym for a clue that is easy to miss, more nuanced than small or quiet.
3. Grandpa told a amusing story about his childhood that made everyone in the room laugh hard.
Amusing matches the gentle, family tone better than hilarious or silly, showing precise word choice.
4. The cat moved with silent steps so the sleeping puppy would not wake from its afternoon nap.
Silent gives the precise shade of meaning for steps that make no sound, stronger than quiet.
5. Maya gave a clear explanation that helped the whole class finally understand the science problem.
Clear is the precise thesaurus choice when an explanation removes confusion for the listener.
6. The fierce wind shook the windows and made the porch chairs slide across the wooden floor.
Fierce shows the strong, forceful shade of meaning for wind that rattles windows and moves furniture.
7. Our coach gave us a inspiring talk that filled every player with energy before the big game.
Inspiring is the precise synonym for a talk that motivates listeners, more nuanced than nice or good.
8. The library was so quiet that we could hear the soft pages turning at every table.
Quiet fits a library where small sounds remain; silent would mean no sound at all, a different shade of meaning.
9. The puppy was energetic all evening, racing around the yard until its energy finally ran out.
Energetic gives the precise shade of meaning for sustained activity, fitting a puppy that runs all evening.
Part B: Matching
Match each item on the left to the correct answer on the right.
1. Match each item to its correct answer.
Whispered (synonym needed for soft speaking)
→ murmured
murmured
Beamed (synonym needed for big smile)
→ grinned
grinned
Sprinted (synonym needed for fast running)
→ dashed
dashed
Examined (synonym needed for careful looking)
→ inspected
inspected
Each pair shares a basic meaning but a thesaurus shows precise differences in shade of meaning, helping Grade 4 writers choose the best word.