Putry Delima

 SYNONYM, ANTONYM, AND HYPONYM

Synonyms

Synonyms are directly related words that have comparable meanings and linguistics argue that no synonym can have an exact meaning to another. For example, the word “tired” is comparable to worn-out, sleepy, drowsy, or weary. It is arguable that each of those synonyms can contain slightly different meanings. Synonyms are not just limited to adjectives; they can also be used for nouns, verbs, prepositions, or adverbs. Most important these are used in writing to stimulate readers and spice up content.  

Antonyms

Antonyms are words with almost opposite meanings to each other. For example, the word “fun” has antonyms similarly opposite to it such as boring, dull, uninspiring or dreary. Like synonyms it is debatable that there can be one true opposite meaning. Antonyms can be applied to nouns, verbs, prepositions, and adverbs. Antonyms can be used to contrast two separate things, actions, feelings, and or placements.

Homonyms

Homonyms are two words that have the same spelling and the same pronunciation, but also hold two different meanings. These can sometimes cause confusion with ESL learners.  For example, the word “right” can relate to the directional right or it can also mean correct. If you are teaching directions to your ESL learners and the answer to a particular direction is “Left” then don’t confirm that by saying “Right!” I made this mistake once only to confuse the students.