Expand your English vocabulary with this engaging quiz focused on synonyms and antonyms. Strengthen your word skills and understanding by identifying similar and opposite meanings in realistic contexts.
Which word is the closest synonym for 'reluctant' in the sentence: She was reluctant to join the hike despite her friends’ encouragement?
Explanation: 'Hesitant' closely matches the meaning of 'reluctant,' both describing someone unsure or unwilling to act. 'Eager' is incorrect because it is the opposite, meaning enthusiastic or keen. 'Insistent' suggests someone who is demanding, not hesitant. 'Bold' describes someone who is confident and takes risks, which contrasts with reluctance.
Select the antonym of 'scarce' in this context: During the harvest, fresh fruit was scarce at the market.
Explanation: 'Abundant' is the opposite of 'scarce,' referring to something present in large quantities. 'Absent' means not present at all, which is different from being rare. 'Exotic' refers to something unusual or from another place and does not convey amount. 'Stale' indicates something is old or no longer fresh, unrelated to quantity.
What is the best synonym for 'serene' in the phrase: The lake looked serene in the early morning light?
Explanation: 'Tranquil' is synonymous with 'serene,' both meaning peaceful and calm. 'Noisy' and 'chaotic' both describe states that are the opposite of serene. 'Gloomy' means dark or depressed, which isn't similar to calmness or peacefulness.
Choose the word that is an antonym for 'expand' as used in: The company plans to expand its services next year.
Explanation: 'Contract' is the antonym of 'expand,' meaning to become smaller or reduce in size. 'Examine' means to look at carefully, having no relation to growth or reduction. 'Create' means to make something, which does not indicate shrinking. 'Expose' means to reveal, which is unrelated to size changes.
In the sentence 'His response was candid and surprised everyone,' which choice is a synonym for 'candid'?
Explanation: 'Frank' is synonymous with 'candid,' both referring to being open and honest in expression. 'Dishonest' is the opposite of candid, suggesting a lack of truthfulness. 'Guarded' means careful or reserved, not open like candid. 'Humble' refers to modesty and is unrelated to frankness or honesty in communication.