11+ Synonyms: Complete Word List & Guide
Synonyms are one of the most heavily tested areas in 11+ Verbal Reasoning (GL Type A). This guide covers what synonyms are, how they're tested, and includes a vocabulary list of key synonym groups for 11+ preparation.
What Are Synonyms?
A synonym is a word that means the same — or nearly the same — as another word. In 11+ exams, children must identify the word closest in meaning from a set of five options. The key skill is distinguishing between words with similar but not identical meanings.
Example (GL Type A format):
Which word is closest in meaning to TENACIOUS?
TENACIOUS = persistent, determined, not giving up. "Persistent" is the correct answer.
11+ Synonym Word Groups
Learn these synonym families — each group contains words that could appear in GL or CEM 11+ papers:
Practise 11+ Synonyms with 11PlusQuest
Synonym Sprint is a fast-paced game mode that drills GL Type A synonyms at your child's exact level. 500+ synonym questions, adaptive difficulty, mastery tracking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a synonym?
A synonym is a word that has the same or very similar meaning to another word. For example, "happy" and "joyful" are synonyms. In 11+ exams, children are asked to identify the word closest in meaning to a given word.
How are synonyms tested in 11+ exams?
In GL Assessment papers, synonyms appear as "Type A" questions. A word is given and children must choose the word closest in meaning from 5 options. CEM papers test synonyms as part of cloze exercises and vocabulary sections.
How many synonyms do children need to know for 11+?
There is no fixed list, but a strong 11+ vocabulary covers around 800–1,200 words at varying difficulty levels. 11PlusQuest organises vocabulary into five levels: Starter, Developing, Confident, Challenge and Exceed.
What is the difference between synonyms and antonyms?
Synonyms mean the same (or similar) thing — "big" and "large". Antonyms mean the opposite — "big" and "small". Both appear in 11+ GL papers as Types A and B respectively.
How can I help my child learn synonyms for 11+?
The most effective methods are: wide reading, vocabulary games (like 11PlusQuest Synonym Sprint), and active revision — writing sentences using new words. Flashcards can also help for difficult words.