FTCE Reading K-12 Practice Exam

What is an antonym?

1. A word that has the same meaning as another

2. A word that means the opposite of another

3. A synonym for a word

4. A type of adjective

The correct answer is: A word that means the opposite of another

An antonym is defined as a word that means the opposite of another word. For example, the antonym of "hot" is "cold," demonstrating how antonyms convey contrary meanings in language. Understanding antonyms is essential for developing vocabulary and comprehension skills, as it helps learners grasp the nuances of different words and their relationships to one another. This knowledge enhances effective communication and aids in the understanding of texts by providing contrast and clarity in meaning. The other options focus on aspects of vocabulary that are unrelated to antonyms, such as synonyms, which refer to words with similar meanings, and definitions that describe the property of words, like being adjectives. Thus, the correct answer specifically addresses the concept of opposites in word meanings.