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English: vocabulary

Vocabulary questions test word meanings, synonyms, antonyms and words in context. Reading widely is the best preparation, but you can also work out unknown words from clues in the sentence.

What is tested

  • Synonyms and antonyms
  • Word meaning from context
  • Prefixes, suffixes and word roots

Worked example

'The soup was bland and needed seasoning.' What does 'bland' mean?

  1. The sentence says it 'needed seasoning'.
  2. So it lacks flavour.
  3. 'Bland' means mild or lacking flavour.

Answer: lacking flavour

Exam-day checklist

  • Reread the sentence and look for clue words.
  • Replace the word with your choice and see if the sentence still makes sense.
  • Use prefixes and roots (un-, re-, bene-).
  • Watch for words with more than one meaning.

Common mistakes

  • Choosing the most common meaning without checking the context.
  • Picking an antonym when a synonym is asked.
  • Ignoring the part of speech.

Try it yourself

1. Which word is closest in meaning to 'reluctant'?

Show answer

unwilling

To be reluctant is to be unwilling or hesitant.

2. What does the prefix 'mis-' mean in 'misunderstand'?

Show answer

wrongly

'Mis-' means badly or wrongly.

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