Kentucky Paraeducator Assessment (KPA) Practice Test

What is a synonym?

1. A word with an opposite meaning

2. A single word with many definitions

3. A word or expression with the same or similar meaning

4. A term that describes a character's personality

The correct answer is: A word or expression with the same or similar meaning

A synonym is defined as a word or expression that has the same or similar meaning as another word. This understanding is integral to vocabulary development and language comprehension, allowing for variations in expression while maintaining the original idea's clarity. For example, the words "happy" and "joyful" serve as synonyms because they convey closely related emotions. The other options do not accurately capture the essence of a synonym. For instance, a word with an opposite meaning refers to an antonym, while a single word with many definitions relates to polysemy, which describes how a single term can have multiple meanings depending on the context. A term that describes a character's personality pertains to adjectives or descriptive phrases but does not address the concept of synonymous words. Understanding synonyms is essential for effective communication and enhancing one's language skills.