Synonyms and Antonyms — Answer Key
Part A: Multiple Choice
Circle the best answer for each question.
1. Which word has a clearly positive connotation when describing a problem-solver?
A) resourceful
B) cunning
C) sneaky
D) scheming
Resourceful carries a positive connotation, suggesting cleverness used in admirable, helpful ways.
2. Which word has a negative connotation, even though it suggests intelligence?
A) clever
B) smart
C) cunning
D) bright
Cunning carries a negative connotation, implying intelligence used for selfish or dishonest purposes.
3. Which word is the most neutral choice for describing an intelligent character?
A) devious
B) shrewd
C) clever
D) crafty
Clever is the most neutral term, describing intelligence without implying praise or suspicion.
4. A reporter wants to praise a leader without sounding biased. Which word fits best?
A) manipulative
B) shrewd
C) scheming
D) duplicitous
Shrewd suggests sharp, practical judgment and is generally positive in professional or business writing.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the correct answer on each line.
1. The grandmother was praised as resourceful because she could repair almost anything around the house.
Resourceful gives a positive shade of meaning, celebrating the grandmother's capable, creative skills.
2. The villain in the novel was cunning, tricking everyone with carefully planned lies.
Cunning carries a negative connotation that fits a villain who uses cleverness to deceive.
3. The detective was simply clever, noticing details others missed without judging them.
Clever is the most neutral synonym, describing sharp thinking without strong positive or negative tone.
4. Investors trusted the shrewd banker, who made smart, careful decisions for many years.
Shrewd suggests practical wisdom and is a positive choice in financial or professional writing.
5. The author chose the word cunning to suggest the character was using intelligence dishonestly.
Cunning signals a negative shade of meaning, hinting that intelligence is being misused.