Free 11+ vocabulary list
The 11 Plus vocabulary word list
254 words a Year 5 or 6 child needs to know precisely, in three tiers and 14 themed sections.
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- original words
- 254
- foundation, learn first
- 106
- themed sections
- 14
- on the KS2 spelling lists
- 8
One word, everything the question can ask
Closest-in-meaning questions put four plausible neighbours next to the answer, and a child who knows the word only vaguely cannot separate them. So each entry carries the exact sense, a sentence that shows it, and the words the paper will use as distractors.
How to read an entry
The badge says which tier the word sits in and whether it is on the statutory Key Stage 2 spelling lists. Similar and opposite words are the ones a paper is most likely to offer as alternatives, and the last column goes straight to the free exercise that drills the skill behind it.
One entry, exactly as the list below shows it
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| reluctantadjectiveStrong | MeaningUnwilling to do something and hanging back from it.The pony was reluctant to cross the stream, planting its hooves firmly on the bank. | Related wordsSimilar unwilling, hesitant, loathOpposite eager, keenFamily reluctance (noun), reluctantly (adverb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
Learn foundation first, then strong, then stretch
Three tiers, in the order the exam rewards them.
Foundation106 words
Words a confident Year 5 reader meets in class reading. Learn these first: they carry the closest-in-meaning and sentence-completion marks that most children can win.
Show the foundation wordsStrong101 words
The words that turn up as answer options in 11+ closest-in-meaning and synonym questions. Knowing these precisely is what separates a solid score from a competitive one.
Show the strong wordsStretch47 words
Less common words a well-read Year 6 child may meet in harder passages or as distractors. Add these once the first two tiers are automatic.
Show the stretch wordsEvery word, by section
Type the word you know to find the word to learn: searching hide finds conceal. Narrow by tier or section, then follow any word to the exercise that drills it.
Word list results
All 254 words
Feelings and moods 20
How characters feel, from quiet contentment to dread. Comprehension questions ask how a character feels and which word tells you.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| anxiousadjectiveFoundation | MeaningFeeling worried and nervous about something that might happen.With the storm rolling in, Priya grew anxious about her dad's boat still out at sea. | Related wordsSimilar worried, nervous, uneasyOpposite calm, relaxedFamily anxiety (noun), anxiously (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| contentadjectiveFoundation | MeaningQuietly happy and satisfied with the way things are.Curled up by the fire with a purring cat on her lap, Gran seemed perfectly content. | Related wordsSimilar satisfied, pleased, comfortableOpposite dissatisfied, restlessFamily contentment (noun), contented (adjective), contentedly (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| dreadnounFoundation | MeaningA strong feeling of fear about something that is going to happen.A cold dread crept over Amir as the dentist's door creaked open and his name was called. | Related wordsSimilar fear, terror, forebodingOpposite eagerness, confidenceFamily dread (verb), dreadful (adjective), dreaded (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| envynounFoundation | MeaningAn unhappy wish to have what someone else has.Chloe gazed at her cousin's shiny new scooter with a pang of envy she tried to hide. | Related wordsSimilar jealousy, longingOpposite contentment, goodwillFamily envy (verb), envious (adjective), enviable (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| furiousadjectiveFoundation | MeaningExtremely angry, often in a way that is hard to hide.Dad was furious when he discovered the goat had eaten every lettuce on the allotment. | Related wordsSimilar enraged, livid, fumingOpposite calm, pleasedFamily fury (noun), furiously (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| griefnounFoundation | MeaningDeep sadness, especially after someone or something is lost.The whole village shared the farmer's grief when his faithful old sheepdog died. | Related wordsSimilar sorrow, heartache, mourningOpposite delight, happinessFamily grieve (verb), grief-stricken (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| reliefnounFoundation | MeaningA feeling of comfort after worry, pain or danger has passed.Relief flooded through the whole family as the missing tortoise plodded out from under the shed. | Related wordsSimilar comfort, reassurance, easeOpposite worry, distressFamily relieve (verb), relieved (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| sulkverbFoundation | MeaningTo stay silent and grumpy because you are annoyed about something.Rather than join the game, Leo chose to sulk in the corner with his arms folded. | Related wordsSimilar mope, brood, poutOpposite cheer up, brightenFamily sulk (noun), sulky (adjective), sulkily (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| apprehensiveadjectiveStrong | MeaningSlightly afraid and uneasy about something that is coming.The class fell quiet and apprehensive as the rickety rope bridge swayed above the river. | Related wordsSimilar nervous, fearful, uneasyOpposite confident, unafraidFamily apprehension (noun), apprehensively (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| bewilderedadjectiveStrong | MeaningCompletely confused and unable to understand what is happening.Lost among the identical stalls of the market, the twins looked around, utterly bewildered. | Related wordsSimilar confused, baffled, puzzledOpposite certain, clear-headedFamily bewilder (verb), bewilderment (noun), bewildering (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| dejectedadjectiveStrong | MeaningFeeling low and unhappy because something has gone wrong.Walking home in the rain after the fete was cancelled, Sam looked thoroughly dejected. | Related wordsSimilar downcast, disheartened, glumOpposite upbeat, hopefulFamily dejection (noun), dejectedly (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| exasperatedadjectiveStrong | MeaningExtremely annoyed, usually because a problem keeps happening.After the printer jammed for the fifth time, the librarian threw up her hands, exasperated. | Related wordsSimilar annoyed, irritated, infuriatedOpposite patient, unruffledFamily exasperate (verb), exasperation (noun), exasperating (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| fretverbStrong | MeaningTo keep worrying about something, often over small things.Auntie Jo tends to fret about the weather every time we plan a picnic on the beach. | Related wordsSimilar worry, agonise, stewOpposite relax, unwindFamily fretful (adjective), fretfully (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| mortifiedadjectiveStrong | MeaningExtremely embarrassed and ashamed about something you have done.Tom was mortified to discover he had spent the whole assembly with paint on his nose. | Related wordsSimilar humiliated, ashamed, embarrassedOpposite proud, unabashedFamily mortify (verb), mortification (noun), mortifying (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| resentfuladjectiveStrong | MeaningFeeling bitter and annoyed about being treated unfairly.Left to wash up alone while his brothers played football, Jamie grew quietly resentful. | Related wordsSimilar bitter, aggrieved, sourOpposite forgiving, gratefulFamily resent (verb), resentment (noun), resentfully (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| yearnverbStrong | MeaningTo long very much for something you cannot easily have.Stuck indoors with chickenpox, Ellie began to yearn for the muddy fields and her pony. | Related wordsSimilar long, crave, pineOpposite spurn, rejectFamily yearning (noun), yearningly (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| anguishnounStretch | MeaningTerrible suffering of the mind or body.Her face twisted in anguish as she realised the letter from Grandpa had blown into the canal. | Related wordsSimilar agony, torment, distressOpposite comfort, blissFamily anguished (adjective) | PractiseComprehension X-Ray |
| despondentadjectiveStretch | MeaningVery unhappy and without much hope that things will improve.Weeks of rain had ruined the strawberries, and the growers were despondent about the summer. | Related wordsSimilar hopeless, gloomy, defeatedOpposite hopeful, optimisticFamily despondency (noun), despondently (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| forlornadjectiveStretch | MeaningSad and lonely, as if nobody cares or nothing can help.A single forlorn puppy sat shivering by the gate, watching every car that passed without stopping. | Related wordsSimilar lonely, miserable, abandonedOpposite hopeful, comfortedFamily forlornly (adverb), forlornness (noun) | PractiseComprehension X-Ray |
| seetheverbStretch | MeaningTo be very angry inside without showing it openly.Hannah smiled politely at the referee, but underneath she was seething at the unfair decision. | Related wordsSimilar fume, simmer, smoulderOpposite calm down, forgiveFamily seething (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
Character and behaviour 21
Words that describe what people are like and how they act. Passages rarely say "she was stubborn"; they show it, and these words name it.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| arrogantadjectiveFoundation | MeaningBehaving as if you are more important or clever than everyone else.The arrogant new striker told everyone he was the only player on the team worth watching. | Related wordsSimilar conceited, big-headed, haughtyOpposite modest, humbleFamily arrogance (noun), arrogantly (adverb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| loyaltynounFoundation | MeaningStaying faithful to a person, team or promise through good times and bad.Out of loyalty to her village team, Beth cheered even when they were losing six-nil. | Related wordsSimilar faithfulness, devotion, allegianceOpposite betrayal, disloyaltyFamily loyal (adjective), loyally (adverb), disloyal (adjective) | PractiseAffix Slot Machine |
| meddleverbFoundation | MeaningTo interfere in something that is not your business.Gran told us not to meddle in the neighbours' argument, but Josh marched over to give his opinion anyway. | Related wordsSimilar interfere, tamper, pryOpposite keep out, refrainFamily meddler (noun), meddlesome (adjective), meddling (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| mischievousadjectiveFoundationKS2 spelling Y5-6 | MeaningFond of playing tricks and causing small amounts of trouble.The mischievous kitten had unravelled the entire ball of wool across the landing by breakfast. | Related wordsSimilar naughty, playful, impishOpposite well-behaved, obedientFamily mischief (noun), mischievously (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| patiencenounFoundation | MeaningThe ability to wait calmly or put up with problems without complaining.Fishing from the harbour wall takes patience, as the mackerel may not bite for an hour. | Related wordsSimilar calmness, forbearance, toleranceOpposite impatience, restlessnessFamily patient (adjective), patiently (adverb), impatient (adjective) | PractiseAffix Slot Machine |
| pesterverbFoundation | MeaningTo keep bothering or annoying someone, often by asking for something again and again.The seagulls will pester anyone eating chips on the pier until every last one is gone. | Related wordsSimilar nag, badger, houndOpposite ignore, leave alone | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| stubbornadjectiveFoundation | MeaningRefusing to change your mind, even when others give good reasons.Too stubborn to ask for help, Uncle Pete drove us around the same roundabout four times. | Related wordsSimilar headstrong, obstinate, unyieldingOpposite compliant, open-mindedFamily stubbornly (adverb), stubbornness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| tantrumnounFoundation | MeaningA sudden outburst of bad temper, usually by a young child.The toddler threw a tantrum in the supermarket because the trolley had no seat for his teddy. | Related wordsSimilar outburst, fit of rageOpposite composure, calm | PractiseRedacted Files |
| candidadjectiveStrong | MeaningHonest and open about what you really think, even if it is awkward.Aunt Ros was candid about the cake: it looked lovely but tasted faintly of soap. | Related wordsSimilar frank, open, outspokenOpposite evasive, guardedFamily candour (noun), candidly (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| courtesynounStrong | MeaningPolite behaviour that shows respect and consideration for others.The bus driver waited with great courtesy while the elderly man folded his walking stick. | Related wordsSimilar politeness, good manners, civilityOpposite rudeness, discourtesyFamily courteous (adjective), courteously (adverb), discourteous (adjective) | PractiseAffix Slot Machine |
| deliberateadjectiveStrong | MeaningDone on purpose, after thinking about it, rather than by accident.Knocking over the paint pot was no accident; it was a deliberate attempt to end the lesson early. | Related wordsSimilar intentional, planned, calculatedOpposite accidental, unintentionalFamily deliberately (adverb), deliberate (verb), deliberation (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| impulsiveadjectiveStrong | MeaningActing suddenly on a feeling, without stopping to think first.One impulsive leap off the harbour wall left the birthday boy soaked and grinning in his party clothes. | Related wordsSimilar rash, hasty, recklessOpposite cautious, carefulFamily impulse (noun), impulsively (adverb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| meticulousadjectiveStrong | MeaningPaying very close attention to every small detail.Being meticulous, Grandad labelled every seed packet and lined them up by the month of sowing. | Related wordsSimilar thorough, painstaking, exactOpposite careless, slapdashFamily meticulously (adverb), meticulousness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| reluctantadjectiveStrong | MeaningUnwilling to do something and hanging back from it.The pony was reluctant to cross the stream, planting its hooves firmly on the bank. | Related wordsSimilar unwilling, hesitant, loathOpposite eager, keenFamily reluctance (noun), reluctantly (adverb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| resilientadjectiveStrong | MeaningAble to recover quickly after something difficult or upsetting.Even after the flood wrecked their shop, the resilient bakers were serving bread again within a week. | Related wordsSimilar tough, hardy, strongOpposite fragile, vulnerableFamily resilience (noun), resiliently (adverb) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| scepticaladjectiveStrong | MeaningDoubting whether something is really true or will really work.Kai was sceptical of his sister's claim that a fox had eaten her homework. | Related wordsSimilar doubtful, unconvinced, suspiciousOpposite convinced, trustingFamily sceptic (noun), scepticism (noun), sceptically (adverb) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| vanitynounStrong | MeaningToo much pride in your own looks, cleverness or importance.The peacock in the fable, full of vanity, spent all morning admiring his reflection in the pond. | Related wordsSimilar conceit, self-importance, prideOpposite modesty, humilityFamily vain (adjective), vainly (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| conscientiousadjectiveStretch | MeaningCareful to do your work properly and to do what is right.A conscientious monitor, Ravi checked every window was shut before leaving the classroom. | Related wordsSimilar diligent, dutiful, thoroughOpposite careless, negligentFamily conscientiously (adverb), conscientiousness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| earnestadjectiveStretch | MeaningVery serious and sincere, meaning every word you say.In an earnest voice, Maya promised she would feed the guinea pigs every single morning. | Related wordsSimilar serious, heartfelt, wholeheartedOpposite flippant, half-heartedFamily earnestly (adverb), earnestness (noun) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| fickleadjectiveStretch | MeaningChanging your mind or your likes very often and without good reason.Our fickle cat adores the salmon flavour one day and turns her nose up at it the next. | Related wordsSimilar changeable, unpredictable, flightyOpposite loyal, constantFamily fickleness (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| haughtyadjectiveStretch | MeaningProud and looking down on other people as if they are beneath you.With a haughty sniff, the duchess in the play refused to sit on the wooden bench. | Related wordsSimilar snobbish, disdainful, superiorOpposite humble, modestFamily haughtily (adverb), haughtiness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
Help, support and generosity 16
Kindness, comfort and looking after others. Common in stories about friendship and family, and in synonym questions.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| charitynounFoundation | MeaningGiving money, food or help to people who need it.Every autumn the school collects tins for charity so that nobody in town goes hungry at Christmas. | Related wordsSimilar generosity, goodwill, kindnessOpposite meanness, selfishnessFamily charitable (adjective), charitably (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| comfortverbFoundation | MeaningTo make someone feel less sad or worried by being kind to them.After the rabbit escaped, Grandma sat on the step to comfort Leah and dry her tears. | Related wordsSimilar console, soothe, reassureOpposite upset, distressFamily comfort (noun), comforting (adjective), comfortable (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| donateverbFoundation | MeaningTo give something, such as money or clothes, to help a good cause.Please donate any outgrown wellies to the box in the porch for the nursery children. | Related wordsSimilar give, contribute, hand overOpposite keep, withholdFamily donation (noun), donor (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| generousadjectiveFoundation | MeaningHappy to give more time, money or kindness than is expected.A generous neighbour left a whole box of apples from her tree on our doorstep. | Related wordsSimilar giving, open-handed, kindOpposite mean, stingy, selfishFamily generosity (noun), generously (adverb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| relyverbFoundation | MeaningTo depend on someone or something to do what is needed.Islanders rely on the little ferry to bring their post, milk and newspapers across each morning. | Related wordsSimilar depend, count on, trustOpposite distrust, doubtFamily reliable (adjective), reliance (noun), reliably (adverb) | PractiseAffix Slot Machine |
| sacrificenounFoundationKS2 spelling Y5-6 | MeaningGiving up something you value in order to help someone else.Missing the cup final to look after his little sister was a real sacrifice for Marcus. | Related wordsSimilar surrender, giving up, forfeitOpposite selfishness, greedFamily sacrifice (verb), sacrificial (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| sympathynounFoundation | MeaningA feeling of care and sorrow for someone who is having a hard time.The postman had real sympathy for Mrs Kaur, stopping to carry her shopping up the steps. | Related wordsSimilar compassion, understanding, pityOpposite indifference, coldnessFamily sympathetic (adjective), sympathise (verb), sympathetically (adverb) | PractiseAffix Slot Machine |
| volunteerverbFoundation | MeaningTo offer to do a job freely, without being made to or paid for it.Half the class chose to volunteer at the beach clean, filling twelve sacks with litter by lunchtime. | Related wordsSimilar offer, step forwardOpposite refuse, shirkFamily volunteer (noun), voluntary (adjective), voluntarily (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| compassionnounStrong | MeaningDeep sympathy for someone who is suffering, together with a wish to help.Filled with compassion, the children carried the injured hedgehog to the wildlife rescue centre. | Related wordsSimilar sympathy, kindness, mercyOpposite cruelty, indifferenceFamily compassionate (adjective), compassionately (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| consoleverbStrong | MeaningTo try to make someone feel better after a loss or disappointment.The coach tried to console the goalkeeper, reminding him of the six saves he had made. | Related wordsSimilar soothe, cheer, sympathise withOpposite upset, tormentFamily consolation (noun), consoling (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| hospitableadjectiveStrong | MeaningFriendly and welcoming to guests and strangers.Our hospitable hosts at the farmhouse insisted we stay for a second helping of crumble. | Related wordsSimilar welcoming, friendly, warmOpposite unfriendly, coldFamily hospitality (noun), hospitably (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| nurtureverbStrong | MeaningTo care for someone or something young so that it grows well.Miss Okafor helped nurture the seedlings on the windowsill until they were sturdy enough for the garden. | Related wordsSimilar nourish, foster, cultivateOpposite neglect, stuntFamily nurture (noun), nurturing (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| reassureverbStrong | MeaningTo say or do something that takes away someone's worries.The vet spoke gently to reassure us that the hamster's limp would mend in a few days. | Related wordsSimilar comfort, calm, encourageOpposite alarm, unsettleFamily reassurance (noun), reassuring (adjective), reassuringly (adverb) | PractiseAffix Slot Machine |
| selflessadjectiveStrong | MeaningCaring more about other people's needs than about your own.In a selfless act, the lifeguard gave her own coat to the shivering boy pulled from the sea. | Related wordsSimilar unselfish, altruistic, generousOpposite selfish, self-centredFamily selflessly (adverb), selflessness (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| bolsterverbStretch | MeaningTo support or strengthen something so it does not fail.A cheer from the crowd helped bolster the tired runners as they climbed the final hill. | Related wordsSimilar support, boost, strengthenOpposite undermine, weakenFamily bolster (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| magnanimousadjectiveStretch | MeaningKind and forgiving towards others, especially those you have beaten.The winning captain was magnanimous, praising the other team's goalkeeper in front of everyone. | Related wordsSimilar generous, forgiving, big-heartedOpposite petty, spitefulFamily magnanimity (noun), magnanimously (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
Speaking, telling and asking 18
Precise verbs for speech. Authors use these instead of "said", and questions ask what the choice tells you about the speaker.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| boastverbFoundation | MeaningTo talk proudly about yourself or the things you own, to impress others.Nobody wanted to sit next to Callum after he boasted about his new bike all lunchtime. | Related wordsSimilar brag, show off, crowOpposite be modest, play downFamily boastful (adjective), boastfully (adverb), boaster (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| confessverbFoundation | MeaningTo admit that you have done something wrong or embarrassing.Nobody would confess to eating the last biscuit, though there were crumbs on the dog's nose. | Related wordsSimilar admit, own up, come cleanOpposite deny, cover upFamily confession (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| debatenounFoundation | MeaningA discussion in which people give reasons for different opinions.The class held a lively debate about whether the school should keep chickens on the field. | Related wordsSimilar discussion, argument, disputeOpposite agreement, consensusFamily debate (verb), debatable (adjective), debater (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| declareverbFoundation | MeaningTo say something firmly and openly so that everyone knows it."This is the best sandcastle on the whole beach," Dev declared, planting his flag on top. | Related wordsSimilar announce, state, proclaimOpposite hide, withholdFamily declaration (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| exclaimverbFoundation | MeaningTo say something suddenly and loudly because you are surprised or pleased."Look, a kingfisher!" Priya exclaimed, nearly dropping her sandwich into the canal. | Related wordsSimilar cry out, shout, blurtOpposite whisper, mutterFamily exclamation (noun), exclamatory (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| mutterverbFoundation | MeaningTo speak quietly and unclearly, often because you are annoyed.Grandad muttered something about the rain as he dragged the wheelbarrow back to the shed. | Related wordsSimilar mumble, grumbleOpposite shout, exclaimFamily muttering (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| persuadeverbFoundationKS2 spelling Y5-6 | MeaningTo make someone agree to do or believe something by giving them good reasons.After three weeks of asking, Amira finally persuaded her dad to adopt the scruffy rescue dog. | Related wordsSimilar convince, talk round, win overOpposite dissuade, discourageFamily persuasion (noun), persuasive (adjective), persuasively (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| remarknounFoundation | MeaningA short comment that someone says or writes about something.Auntie Jo made a kind remark about my painting, and I grinned all the way home. | Related wordsSimilar comment, observation, statementOpposite silenceFamily remark (verb), remarkable (adjective), remarkably (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| contradictverbStrong | MeaningTo say that the opposite of what someone else has said is true.Every time Leo described the match, his sister contradicted him and said the goal was offside. | Related wordsSimilar disagree with, deny, disputeOpposite agree, confirm, supportFamily contradiction (noun), contradictory (adjective) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| enquireverbStrong | MeaningTo ask someone for information about something.Mum rang the library to enquire whether the book about volcanoes had been returned yet. | Related wordsSimilar ask, query, investigateOpposite answer, replyFamily enquiry (noun), enquiring (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| insistverbStrong | MeaningTo say firmly that something must happen or is definitely true.Even though the sun was shining, Dad insisted that we take our raincoats to the beach. | Related wordsSimilar demand, stand firm, assertOpposite give in, yieldFamily insistence (noun), insistent (adjective), insistently (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| pleadverbStrong | MeaningTo beg someone for something in a serious and emotional way.The twins pleaded with their mum to let them stay up for the fireworks. | Related wordsSimilar beg, implore, appealOpposite demand, orderFamily plea (noun), pleading (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| querynounStrong | MeaningA question, especially one asking for something to be checked or explained.The librarian answered my query about where the graphic novels had been moved to. | Related wordsSimilar question, enquiry, doubtOpposite answer, replyFamily query (verb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| retortnounStrong | MeaningA quick, sharp reply, often clever or angry."At least my boots match," was Sam's retort when his brother laughed at his hat. | Related wordsSimilar reply, comeback, riposteOpposite silenceFamily retort (verb) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| urgeverbStrong | MeaningTo try hard to persuade someone to do something.The lifeguard urged the swimmers to come back to the shore before the tide turned. | Related wordsSimilar encourage, press, pushOpposite discourage, dissuadeFamily urge (noun), urgent (adjective), urgency (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| assertverbStretch | MeaningTo state something firmly and confidently as a fact.Maya asserted that the footprints in the mud belonged to a badger, not a fox. | Related wordsSimilar declare, claim, insistOpposite deny, retractFamily assertion (noun), assertive (adjective), assertively (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| interrogateverbStretch | MeaningTo ask someone many questions, often in a stern or forceful way.When the biscuit tin turned up empty, Gran interrogated each of us in turn. | Related wordsSimilar question, quiz, cross-examineOpposite answer, replyFamily interrogation (noun), interrogative (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| rebukeverbStretch | MeaningTo tell someone sharply that they have done something wrong.The librarian rebuked the boys for sliding down the banister, though her eyes were twinkling. | Related wordsSimilar scold, tell off, reprimandOpposite praise, complimentFamily rebuke (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
Moving and doing 20
Verbs of movement and action. They set the pace of a passage and are favourites for closest-in-meaning questions.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| clamberverbFoundation | MeaningTo climb somewhere awkwardly, using your hands and feet.The children clambered over the slippery rocks to reach the pool at the far end. | Related wordsSimilar scramble, climb, scaleOpposite glide, slide | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| dawdleverbFoundation | MeaningTo walk or do something slowly, wasting time along the way.We dawdled home from school, stopping to look at every snail on the pavement. | Related wordsSimilar dally, loiter, drag your feetOpposite hurry, rushFamily dawdler (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| errandnounFoundation | MeaningA short journey to do a small job, such as delivering something.Before tea, Mum sent me on an errand to fetch milk from the corner shop. | Related wordsSimilar task, job, mission | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| fidgetverbFoundation | MeaningTo keep making small restless movements because you are bored or nervous.The vicar's sermon dragged on, and the choirboys began to fidget in the front pew. | Related wordsSimilar squirm, wriggle, twitchOpposite settle, relaxFamily fidget (noun), fidgety (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| hesitateverbFoundation | MeaningTo pause before doing something because you are unsure or nervous.Rosie hesitated at the edge of the pool, then took a deep breath and jumped. | Related wordsSimilar pause, dither, hold backOpposite rush, plunge inFamily hesitation (noun), hesitant (adjective), hesitantly (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| hurlverbFoundation | MeaningTo throw something with great force.Furious with the wind, Tom hurled his broken kite into the hedge. | Related wordsSimilar fling, throw, tossOpposite catch, hold | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| hurtleverbFoundation | MeaningTo move very fast, often in a wild or out-of-control way.The sledge hurtled down the slope so fast that the twins had to bail out into a snowdrift. | Related wordsSimilar race, speed, rushOpposite crawl, creepFamily hurtling (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| scurryverbFoundation | MeaningTo move quickly with short, hurried steps.A mouse scurried across the kitchen floor and disappeared under the fridge. | Related wordsSimilar scamper, dash, scuttleOpposite dawdle, ambleFamily scurry (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| strideverbFoundation | MeaningTo walk with long, confident steps.Ignoring the drizzle, the coach strode across the pitch to shake the referee's hand. | Related wordsSimilar march, pace, step outOpposite shuffle, dawdleFamily stride (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| stumbleverbFoundation | MeaningTo trip or nearly fall while walking or running.Halfway across the field, Jack stumbled on a molehill and landed in the wet grass. | Related wordsSimilar trip, lurch, totterOpposite stride, glideFamily stumble (noun), stumbling (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| flinchverbStrong | MeaningTo make a small, sudden movement away from something because of pain or fear.The kitten flinched when the hairdryer roared into life next door. | Related wordsSimilar wince, recoil, shrink backOpposite stand firm, hold steadyFamily flinch (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| gesturenounStrong | MeaningA movement of the hand or head that shows a feeling or idea.With a quick gesture, the bus driver waved us across the road in front of him. | Related wordsSimilar signal, sign, motionOpposite stillnessFamily gesture (verb), gesticulate (verb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| lingerverbStrong | MeaningTo stay somewhere longer than needed because you do not want to leave.Long after the others had gone in, Nadia lingered by the pond watching the dragonflies. | Related wordsSimilar loiter, remain, dawdleOpposite hurry away, departFamily lingering (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| plungeverbStrong | MeaningTo fall or jump suddenly and steeply downwards.The otter plunged into the river and came up seconds later with a wriggling fish. | Related wordsSimilar dive, drop, plummetOpposite rise, soarFamily plunge (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| retrieveverbStrong | MeaningTo get something back from the place where it was left or lost.Our spaniel loves to retrieve tennis balls from the pond, however muddy the water. | Related wordsSimilar fetch, recover, get backOpposite lose, discardFamily retrieval (noun), retriever (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| rummageverbStrong | MeaningTo search for something by moving things about in an untidy way.The caretaker rummaged through the drawer of old keys, looking for the one to the shed. | Related wordsSimilar search, root about, forageOpposite tidy, arrangeFamily rummage (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| lurchverbStretch | MeaningTo move suddenly and unsteadily, as if about to fall.The ferry lurched sideways as a big wave hit it, and everyone grabbed the rails. | Related wordsSimilar sway, pitch, reelOpposite glide, steadyFamily lurch (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| manoeuvrenounStretch | MeaningA careful or skilful movement, especially one that is tricky to do.Getting the sofa up the narrow staircase took a clever manoeuvre and a lot of shouting. | Related wordsSimilar move, operation, tacticOpposite blunderFamily manoeuvre (verb), manoeuvrable (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| saunterverbStretch | MeaningTo walk in a slow, relaxed way, as if you have all day.Hands in pockets, Ollie sauntered along the promenade, licking an ice cream. | Related wordsSimilar stroll, amble, wanderOpposite hurry, dashFamily saunter (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| toilverbStretch | MeaningTo work very hard for a long time at something tiring.All afternoon the volunteers toiled in the community garden behind the flats, digging out weeds in the heat. | Related wordsSimilar labour, slog, work hardOpposite rest, relaxFamily toil (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
Thinking and understanding 20
Reasoning, knowing, remembering and puzzling things out. Useful in non-fiction passages and in the questions themselves.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| concentrateverbFoundation | MeaningTo give all your attention to one thing.With the telly blaring downstairs, Sofia found it hard to concentrate on her jigsaw. | Related wordsSimilar focus, pay attention, apply yourselfOpposite daydream, driftFamily concentration (noun), concentrated (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| doubtnounFoundation | MeaningA feeling of not being sure whether something is true or will happen.There was some doubt about whether the frozen pond was thick enough to walk on. | Related wordsSimilar uncertainty, hesitation, misgivingOpposite certainty, confidence, trustFamily doubt (verb), doubtful (adjective), doubtless (adverb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| hunchnounFoundation | MeaningA feeling that something is true, even without any proof.Following a hunch, Dan checked under the shed and found the missing football. | Related wordsSimilar feeling, instinct, suspicionOpposite proof, certainty | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| memoriseverbFoundation | MeaningTo learn something so well that you can repeat it exactly.Over the weekend Finn memorised every line of his part in the school play. | Related wordsSimilar learn by heart, commit to memory, rememberOpposite forgetFamily memory (noun), memorable (adjective), memorisation (noun) | PractiseAffix Slot Machine |
| realiseverbFoundation | MeaningTo suddenly notice or understand something that you did not know before.Halfway to the bus stop, Zara realised she had left her packed lunch on the table. | Related wordsSimilar notice, grasp, become awareOpposite overlook, missFamily realisation (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| recallverbFoundation | MeaningTo bring a memory back into your mind.Try as she might, Nan could not recall where she had put her reading glasses. | Related wordsSimilar remember, recollect, call to mindOpposite forgetFamily recall (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| reckonverbFoundation | MeaningTo think or believe that something is likely to be true.I reckon the tide will be far enough out by four o'clock for us to explore the rock pools. | Related wordsSimilar think, suppose, believeOpposite doubt, know for certainFamily reckoning (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| theorynounFoundation | MeaningAn idea that tries to explain why something happens.Milo's theory was that the birds sang louder whenever next door's cat was indoors. | Related wordsSimilar idea, explanation, hypothesisOpposite fact, proofFamily theoretical (adjective), theorise (verb), theorist (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| anticipateverbStrong | MeaningTo expect that something will happen and get ready for it.Anticipating a rush on the ice-cream van, Gran had the coins ready before it turned into the street. | Related wordsSimilar expect, foresee, predictOpposite overlook, disregardFamily anticipation (noun), anticipated (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| assumeverbStrong | MeaningTo accept that something is true without checking or having proof.We assumed the park would be empty on a rainy Tuesday, but the swings were packed. | Related wordsSimilar suppose, presume, take for grantedOpposite check, verify, doubtFamily assumption (noun), assumed (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| baffleverbStrong | MeaningTo confuse someone so much that they cannot understand or explain something.The disappearing socks baffled the entire household for a month before we discovered the cat's secret nest. | Related wordsSimilar puzzle, bewilder, confuseOpposite enlighten, explainFamily baffling (adjective), bafflement (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| comprehendverbStrong | MeaningTo understand something fully, especially something difficult.Even after Dad explained it twice, I still could not comprehend how the tide worked. | Related wordsSimilar understand, grasp, followOpposite misunderstand, missFamily comprehension (noun), comprehensible (adjective), incomprehensible (adjective) | PractiseAffix Slot Machine |
| deduceverbStrong | MeaningTo work something out by thinking carefully about the facts you have.From the muddy paw prints on the doormat, Iris deduced that the dog had escaped again. | Related wordsSimilar work out, infer, reasonOpposite guess, assumeFamily deduction (noun), deductive (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| notionnounStrong | MeaningAn idea or belief about something, often one that is not fully formed.Ellie had a notion that the old lighthouse might be a good place for a picnic. | Related wordsSimilar idea, thought, beliefOpposite certainty, factFamily notional (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| obliviousadjectiveStrong | MeaningNot noticing what is happening around you.Lost in his comic, Arun was oblivious to the rain now soaking his trainers. | Related wordsSimilar unaware, heedless, unmindfulOpposite aware, alert, consciousFamily obliviously (adverb), obliviousness (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| obscureadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing something that is hard to understand or not widely known.Grandpa collects records by obscure bands that nobody at school has ever heard of. | Related wordsSimilar unknown, little-known, unclearOpposite famous, well-known, obviousFamily obscure (verb), obscurity (noun), obscurely (adverb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| contemplateverbStretch | MeaningTo think about something deeply and for a long time.Sitting on the harbour wall, Ruby contemplated what to do with the rest of the holidays. | Related wordsSimilar reflect on, think over, museOpposite ignore, dismissFamily contemplation (noun), contemplative (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| conundrumnounStretch | MeaningA confusing problem or question that is very hard to solve.How to fit six of us and the dog into Gran's tiny car was a real conundrum. | Related wordsSimilar puzzle, riddle, problemOpposite solution, answer | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| fathomverbStretch | MeaningTo understand something after thinking hard about it.Nobody could fathom why the hens had stopped laying until we spotted the fox's tracks. | Related wordsSimilar understand, work out, comprehendOpposite misunderstandFamily unfathomable (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| lucidadjectiveStretch | MeaningClear and easy to understand.The guide gave such a lucid explanation of the tides that even my little brother followed it. | Related wordsSimilar clear, plain, coherentOpposite confusing, muddled, obscureFamily lucidly (adverb), lucidity (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
Truth, honesty and trickery 17
Honesty, deception and disguise. A rich source of antonym pairs.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| bluffverbFoundation | MeaningTo pretend to be confident or to know something so that other people believe you.The goalkeeper tried to bluff, diving left with a shout, but the striker calmly rolled the ball right. | Related wordsSimilar pretend, fake, put on an actOpposite admit, own upFamily bluff (noun), bluffer (noun) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| cunningadjectiveFoundation | MeaningClever at getting what you want by using tricks.The cunning fox waited until the farmer had gone indoors before creeping towards the hen house. | Related wordsSimilar crafty, sly, wilyOpposite honest, naiveFamily cunningly (adverb), cunning (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| deceiveverbFoundation | MeaningTo make someone believe something that is not true.Every person in the audience was deceived by the trick, certain the coin had truly vanished. | Related wordsSimilar mislead, trick, foolOpposite enlighten, informFamily deception (noun), deceit (noun), deceptive (adjective), deceitful (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| exaggerateverbFoundationKS2 spelling Y5-6 | MeaningTo describe something as bigger, better or worse than it really is.Dad always exaggerates the size of the fish he caught, and it grows with every retelling. | Related wordsSimilar overstate, embellish, inflateOpposite understate, minimiseFamily exaggeration (noun), exaggerated (adjective) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| genuineadjectiveFoundation | MeaningReal, and exactly what it claims to be.Grandad checked the old coin with a magnifying glass and declared it a genuine Roman one. | Related wordsSimilar real, authentic, trueOpposite fake, falseFamily genuinely (adverb), genuineness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| sincereadjectiveFoundationKS2 spelling Y5-6 | MeaningHonestly meant, without any pretending.Her apology was so sincere that Ravi forgave her before she had even finished speaking. | Related wordsSimilar heartfelt, honest, earnestOpposite false, hypocriticalFamily sincerely (adverb), sincerity (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| trustworthyadjectiveFoundation | MeaningDescribing a person who can be relied on to be honest.Only the most trustworthy pupils were allowed to collect the dinner money from each classroom. | Related wordsSimilar reliable, dependable, honestOpposite dishonest, unreliableFamily trust (noun), trust (verb), trustworthiness (noun) | PractiseAffix Slot Machine |
| concealverbStrong | MeaningTo hide something so that it cannot be seen or found.The fox concealed itself behind the compost heap until the gardener had gone indoors. | Related wordsSimilar hide, cover, disguiseOpposite reveal, expose, uncoverFamily concealment (noun), concealed (adjective) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| deviousadjectiveStrong | MeaningUsing sneaky, dishonest methods to get your own way.Nobody trusted the devious shopkeeper, who kept the best apples hidden and sold the bruised ones first. | Related wordsSimilar sly, underhand, schemingOpposite honest, straightforwardFamily deviously (adverb), deviousness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| gullibleadjectiveStrong | MeaningToo ready to believe whatever you are told, and so easy to trick.Only a gullible shopper would believe the market trader's promise that the plastic watch was solid gold. | Related wordsSimilar trusting, naive, easily fooledOpposite suspicious, sceptical, waryFamily gullibility (noun), gullibly (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| hoaxnounStrong | MeaningA trick that makes people believe something false, often as a joke.That photo of a shark in the boating lake turned out to be a hoax made with cardboard. | Related wordsSimilar prank, trick, deceptionOpposite truth, factFamily hoax (verb), hoaxer (noun) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| pretencenounStrong | MeaningA way of behaving that is meant to hide what is really true.Under the pretence of fetching a book, Leo slipped upstairs to wrap his sister's present. | Related wordsSimilar act, sham, showOpposite honesty, realityFamily pretend (verb), pretender (noun) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| swindleverbStrong | MeaningTo cheat someone out of money or goods by tricking them.The market trader swindled customers by selling glass beads as if they were real pearls. | Related wordsSimilar cheat, con, defraudOpposite repay, compensateFamily swindle (noun), swindler (noun) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| verifyverbStrong | MeaningTo check carefully that something is true or correct.Before printing the story, the editor rang the zoo to verify that a penguin really had escaped. | Related wordsSimilar check, confirm, proveOpposite disprove, contradictFamily verification (noun), verifiable (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| counterfeitadjectiveStretch | MeaningMade to look real in order to cheat people.The bank clerk held the note up to the light and spotted at once that it was counterfeit. | Related wordsSimilar fake, forged, imitationOpposite genuine, authenticFamily counterfeit (verb), counterfeiter (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| guilenounStretch | MeaningSly cleverness used to trick or outwit other people.With considerable guile, the smallest player drew the defenders left before passing the ball right. | Related wordsSimilar cunning, craftiness, trickeryOpposite honesty, innocenceFamily guileless (adjective), beguile (verb) | PractiseAffix Slot Machine |
| rusenounStretch | MeaningA clever plan used to fool someone.Pretending to have lost her scarf was just a ruse to get Mum out of the room. | Related wordsSimilar trick, ploy, dodgeOpposite honesty | PractiseRedacted Files |
Courage, danger and conflict 18
Bravery, risk, threat and argument. The vocabulary of adventure stories and historical passages.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| courageousadjectiveFoundation | MeaningDescribing someone who faces fear or hardship without giving up.It was courageous of Aisha to speak up for the new boy when everyone else stayed silent. | Related wordsSimilar brave, fearless, pluckyOpposite cowardly, timidFamily courage (noun), courageously (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| cowardlyadjectiveFoundation | MeaningToo afraid to face difficulty, and quick to run from it.Leaving your friend to face the angry goose alone was a cowardly thing to do, Tom. | Related wordsSimilar timid, spineless, fearfulOpposite brave, courageousFamily coward (noun), cowardice (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| defendverbFoundation | MeaningTo protect someone or something from attack or harm.The mother swan spread her wings wide to defend her cygnets from the curious dog. | Related wordsSimilar protect, guard, shieldOpposite attack, abandonFamily defence (noun), defender (noun), defensive (adjective) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| hazardnounFoundation | MeaningA thing that could cause harm or an accident.Loose stones on the cliff path were a real hazard for walkers after the heavy rain. | Related wordsSimilar danger, risk, perilOpposite safety, protectionFamily hazardous (adjective), hazard (verb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| quarrelnounFoundation | MeaningAn angry argument between people who disagree.A silly quarrel over whose turn it was on the swing ended with both cousins in tears. | Related wordsSimilar argument, row, disputeOpposite agreement, reconciliationFamily quarrel (verb), quarrelsome (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| surrenderverbFoundation | MeaningTo stop fighting and admit that the other side has won.After an hour of snowball fighting, the soaked and shivering red team finally surrendered. | Related wordsSimilar give in, yield, submitOpposite resist, fight onFamily surrender (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| threatenverbFoundation | MeaningTo say you will hurt or punish someone if they do not do what you want.The older boys threatened to throw our football over the fence unless we let them play. | Related wordsSimilar menace, intimidate, bullyOpposite reassure, protectFamily threat (noun), threatening (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| ambushnounStrong | MeaningA surprise attack by people who have been hiding and waiting.Hidden behind the shed, the twins launched their water-balloon ambush the moment Uncle Pete appeared. | Related wordsSimilar trap, surprise attackOpposite warning, open attackFamily ambush (verb) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| confrontverbStrong | MeaningTo face someone or a problem directly instead of avoiding it.Rather than hide the broken vase, Ellie decided to confront the problem and tell her aunt. | Related wordsSimilar face, challenge, tackleOpposite avoid, evadeFamily confrontation (noun), confrontational (adjective) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| formidableadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing something so powerful or difficult that it causes respect or fear.With three county champions in their side, the visiting hockey team looked formidable opponents. | Related wordsSimilar daunting, mighty, intimidatingOpposite weak, feebleFamily formidably (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| hostileadjectiveStrong | MeaningUnfriendly, and ready to fight or argue.The farm cat gave the new puppy a hostile glare and refused to leave the doorstep. | Related wordsSimilar unfriendly, aggressive, antagonisticOpposite friendly, welcomingFamily hostility (noun), hostilities (plural noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| menacenounStrong | MeaningSomeone or something that threatens harm or keeps causing trouble.Wasps became such a menace at the picnic that we packed up and ate in the car. | Related wordsSimilar threat, danger, nuisanceOpposite blessing, comfortFamily menace (verb), menacing (adjective), menacingly (adverb) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| perilousadjectiveStrong | MeaningFull of risk and likely to cause harm.The climb down to the rock pools was perilous, with seaweed making every step slippery. | Related wordsSimilar dangerous, hazardous, riskyOpposite safe, secureFamily peril (noun), perilously (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| treacherousadjectiveStrong | MeaningDangerous in a hidden way that is hard to spot, or ready to betray someone who trusts you.Black ice made the lane treacherous, and even the postman's van slid gently into the hedge. | Related wordsSimilar hazardous, risky, unsafeOpposite safe, reliableFamily treachery (noun), treacherously (adverb) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| valiantadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing a brave and determined effort, especially against the odds.Despite a valiant effort in the final minutes, the school team lost the cup by one goal. | Related wordsSimilar brave, heroic, gallantOpposite cowardly, feebleFamily valiantly (adverb), valour (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| intrepidadjectiveStretch | MeaningAdventurous and showing no fear at all.Our intrepid guide waded straight into the icy stream while the rest of us hung back. | Related wordsSimilar fearless, bold, daringOpposite timid, cowardlyFamily intrepidly (adverb), intrepidity (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| jeopardynounStretch | MeaningA state of being at risk of harm or loss.One more late library book and Sam's chance of the reading prize would be in jeopardy. | Related wordsSimilar danger, peril, riskOpposite safety, securityFamily jeopardise (verb) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| skirmishnounStretch | MeaningA short, small fight between two groups.What began as a skirmish over the last slice of cake soon had every cousin involved. | Related wordsSimilar scuffle, clash, tussleOpposite truce, peaceFamily skirmish (verb) | PractiseRedacted Files |
Size, strength and change 20
Amounts, scale, growing, shrinking, strength and weakness. Many pair cleanly as synonyms and antonyms.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| alterverbFoundation | MeaningTo change something slightly, or to become different.Mum had to alter the costume because the sleeves hung right down over Josh's hands. | Related wordsSimilar change, adjust, modifyOpposite preserve, keepFamily alteration (noun), alterable (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| expandverbFoundation | MeaningTo become larger, or to make something larger.Watch the balloon expand as you blow into it, then let go and see it shoot across the room. | Related wordsSimilar grow, enlarge, swellOpposite shrink, contractFamily expansion (noun), expansive (adjective) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| fragileadjectiveFoundation | MeaningEasily broken or damaged.The eggs were so fragile that Nan wrapped each one in a tea towel for the journey. | Related wordsSimilar delicate, breakable, flimsyOpposite sturdy, toughFamily fragility (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| mightyadjectiveFoundation | MeaningVery powerful or very large.With one mighty heave, the three of them dragged the fallen branch off the footpath. | Related wordsSimilar powerful, strong, hugeOpposite weak, punyFamily might (noun), mightily (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| shrivelverbFoundation | MeaningTo become smaller, dry and wrinkled, usually from heat or lack of water.Without rain for a month, the lettuces began to shrivel and the soil cracked like old paint. | Related wordsSimilar wrinkle, shrink, witherOpposite swell, plump upFamily shrivelled (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| sturdyadjectiveFoundation | MeaningStrongly built and not easily broken.Twenty winters on the seafront had not put a single wobble in the sturdy wooden bench. | Related wordsSimilar strong, solid, robustOpposite flimsy, fragileFamily sturdily (adverb), sturdiness (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| swellverbFoundation | MeaningTo grow bigger than usual, often by filling with something.The stream began to swell after the storm, spilling over its banks into the meadow. | Related wordsSimilar expand, bulge, growOpposite shrink, deflateFamily swelling (noun), swollen (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| vastadjectiveFoundation | MeaningExtremely large in size or amount.From the top of the hill, the moor stretched away, a vast sea of purple heather. | Related wordsSimilar enormous, huge, immenseOpposite tiny, minuteFamily vastly (adverb), vastness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| abundantadjectiveStrong | MeaningAvailable in very large amounts.Blackberries were abundant along the lane that autumn, and every bowl in the house was full. | Related wordsSimilar plentiful, ample, copiousOpposite scarce, sparseFamily abundance (noun), abundantly (adverb), abound (verb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| brittleadjectiveStrong | MeaningHard, but likely to snap or shatter easily.Years in the sun had turned the plastic ruler brittle, and it snapped when Kai bent it. | Related wordsSimilar fragile, breakable, crumblyOpposite flexible, toughFamily brittleness (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| colossaladjectiveStrong | MeaningOf truly enormous size.A colossal wave rose behind the pier, and the fishermen ran for the steps. | Related wordsSimilar gigantic, immense, massiveOpposite tiny, minuteFamily colossus (noun), colossally (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| dwindleverbStrong | MeaningTo become gradually smaller or fewer until little is left.The queue for the ice-cream van dwindled as the grey clouds rolled in over the beach. | Related wordsSimilar shrink, decline, diminishOpposite grow, increaseFamily dwindling (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| feebleadjectiveStrong | MeaningWeak, and lacking force or energy.The kitten gave a feeble mew from the box, too tired even to lift its head. | Related wordsSimilar weak, frail, faintOpposite strong, powerfulFamily feebly (adverb), feebleness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| scarceadjectiveStrong | MeaningIn short supply and hard to find.Firewood was scarce on the island, so the campers gathered every dry twig they could spot. | Related wordsSimilar rare, sparse, in short supplyOpposite plentiful, abundantFamily scarcity (noun), scarcely (adverb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| sparseadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing something thinly spread, with only a few in a large space.The grass was sparse under the big beech tree, with bare earth showing between the tufts. | Related wordsSimilar thin, scanty, scatteredOpposite dense, thickFamily sparsely (adverb), sparseness (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| transformverbStrong | MeaningTo change something completely in form, look or character.A coat of yellow paint and some bunting transformed the dingy shed into a seaside cafe for the fete. | Related wordsSimilar change, convert, remodelOpposite preserve, maintainFamily transformation (noun), transformed (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| dearthnounStretch | MeaningA serious shortage of something that is needed.There was such a dearth of umbrellas at the fete that people sheltered under the cake stall. | Related wordsSimilar shortage, lack, scarcityOpposite abundance, surplus | PractiseRedacted Files |
| fluctuateverbStretch | MeaningTo keep changing, rising and falling without a steady pattern.The temperature in the greenhouse fluctuated wildly, roasting the tomatoes by day and chilling them at night. | Related wordsSimilar vary, waver, swingOpposite stabilise, settleFamily fluctuation (noun), fluctuating (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| magnitudenounStretch | MeaningThe great size or importance of something.Only when they reached the foot of the dam did the children grasp the magnitude of it. | Related wordsSimilar size, scale, extentOpposite smallness, insignificanceFamily magnify (verb), magnification (noun) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| paltryadjectiveStretch | MeaningSo small an amount that it is almost worthless.Ten pence was a paltry reward for an afternoon spent weeding Mr Okafor's entire allotment. | Related wordsSimilar measly, meagre, triflingOpposite generous, substantialFamily paltriness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
Time, order and speed 16
When things happen, in what order, and how fast. These words carry sequencing questions and cloze answers.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| graduallyadverbFoundation | MeaningSlowly and steadily, a little at a time.The tide crept in gradually, until the sandcastle's moat was full and its walls began to crumble. | Related wordsSimilar slowly, steadily, bit by bitOpposite suddenly, abruptlyFamily gradual (adjective) | PractiseMind the Gap |
| hastyadjectiveFoundation | MeaningDone in a hurry, often without enough thought.In her hasty dash for the bus, Nia left her packed lunch sitting on the kitchen table. | Related wordsSimilar hurried, rushed, rashOpposite careful, leisurelyFamily haste (noun), hastily (adverb), hasten (verb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| postponeverbFoundation | MeaningTo move an event to a later time than planned.Because of the thunderstorm, the head teacher decided to postpone sports day until the following week. | Related wordsSimilar delay, put off, deferOpposite bring forward, advanceFamily postponement (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| punctualadjectiveFoundation | MeaningDescribing someone who arrives or does things exactly on time.Mr Das is so punctual that the class can set the clock by the moment he walks in. | Related wordsSimilar prompt, on time, timelyOpposite late, tardyFamily punctuality (noun), punctually (adverb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| sequencenounFoundation | MeaningA set of things that follow one another in a particular order.The recipe only works if you follow the sequence: cream the butter first, then add the eggs. | Related wordsSimilar order, series, successionOpposite jumble, muddleFamily sequential (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| swiftadjectiveFoundation | MeaningMoving or happening very quickly.A swift reply came back from the library: the book we wanted was already on its way. | Related wordsSimilar quick, speedy, rapidOpposite slow, sluggishFamily swiftly (adverb), swiftness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| abruptadjectiveStrong | MeaningSudden and unexpected.The film came to an abrupt stop halfway through, and the whole cinema groaned. | Related wordsSimilar sudden, sharp, unexpectedOpposite gradual, gentleFamily abruptly (adverb), abruptness (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| briskadjectiveStrong | MeaningQuick, energetic and lively.A brisk walk along the front soon warmed us up after the chilly ferry crossing. | Related wordsSimilar quick, lively, energeticOpposite sluggish, leisurelyFamily briskly (adverb), briskness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| durationnounStrong | MeaningThe length of time that something lasts.For the whole duration of the car journey, the twins argued about who had seen the sea first. | Related wordsSimilar length, span, periodOpposite instantFamily durable (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| intervalnounStrong | MeaningA period of time between two events.During the interval, the audience queued for choc ices while the stagehands changed the scenery. | Related wordsSimilar gap, pause, breakOpposite continuationFamily intervene (verb), intervening (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| precedeverbStrong | MeaningTo come or go before something else in time or order.A hush always precedes the fireworks, then the first rocket whistles up into the dark. | Related wordsSimilar come before, lead, go ahead ofOpposite follow, succeedFamily preceding (adjective), precedent (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| promptadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing an action done at once, without any delay.Thanks to the prompt arrival of the lifeguard, the drifting dinghy was towed back safely. | Related wordsSimilar immediate, speedy, punctualOpposite late, delayedFamily promptly (adverb), promptness (noun), prompt (verb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| sluggishadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing something moving or working far more slowly than usual.The old laptop was so sluggish that the kettle had boiled before the homepage even loaded. | Related wordsSimilar slow, lethargic, listlessOpposite brisk, livelyFamily sluggishly (adverb), sluggishness (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| belatedadjectiveStretch | MeaningComing or happening later than it should have.Grandad's belated birthday card arrived in March, three weeks after the last slice of cake had gone. | Related wordsSimilar late, overdue, delayedOpposite punctual, prompt, timelyFamily belatedly (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| elapseverbStretch | MeaningTo pass or go by, used about time.Three whole weeks elapsed before the seeds Amara had planted finally pushed through the soil. | Related wordsSimilar pass, go by, slip awayOpposite remain, stand stillFamily elapsed (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| fleetingadjectiveStretch | MeaningLasting only a very short time.We caught a fleeting glimpse of the kingfisher before it flashed away down the river. | Related wordsSimilar brief, momentary, passingOpposite lasting, permanentFamily fleetingly (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
Places, weather and the natural world 20
Settings, landscape and weather. Descriptive passages lean on these, and so do the questions about atmosphere.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| denseadjectiveFoundation | MeaningPacked closely together, with little space between the parts.The fog was so dense that Priya could not see the bus stop from the corner. | Related wordsSimilar thick, packed, crowdedOpposite sparse, thinFamily density (noun), densely (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| droughtnounFoundation | MeaningA long period with little or no rain, when the land dries out.During the summer drought the reservoir shrank and cracked mud appeared where water had been. | Related wordsSimilar dry spell, water shortageOpposite flood, delugeFamily drought-stricken (adjective) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| horizonnounFoundation | MeaningThe distant line where the land or sea seems to meet the sky.A tiny ship crept along the horizon, so far off that it looked like a toy. | Related wordsSimilar skyline, far distanceOpposite foregroundFamily horizontal (adjective), horizontally (adverb) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| overcastadjectiveFoundation | MeaningDescribing a sky that is covered in cloud, with no sun showing.The morning was overcast and dull, so the beach was almost empty when we arrived. | Related wordsSimilar cloudy, grey, dullOpposite sunny, cloudless | PractiseWord Bridge |
| remoteadjectiveFoundation | MeaningFar away from towns and hard to reach.The stone hut stood on a remote hillside, miles from the nearest road or shop. | Related wordsSimilar faraway, distant, out-of-the-wayOpposite nearby, centralFamily remotely (adverb), remoteness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| ruraladjectiveFoundation | MeaningDescribing the countryside rather than a town or city.Gran's rural cottage had fields on three sides and a farm track instead of a street. | Related wordsSimilar country, pastoral, agriculturalOpposite urbanFamily rurally (adverb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| summitnounFoundation | MeaningThe highest point of a mountain or hill.After four hours of climbing, we reached the summit and could see three counties below us. | Related wordsSimilar peak, top, crestOpposite base, foot | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| urbanadjectiveFoundation | MeaningDescribing a town or city rather than the countryside.Pigeons and foxes have adapted well to urban life, raiding bins behind busy high streets. | Related wordsSimilar city, built-up, metropolitanOpposite ruralFamily urbanise (verb), urbanisation (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| adjacentadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing something that is next to or right beside another thing.Our allotment is adjacent to the railway line, so we hear every train rattle past. | Related wordsSimilar neighbouring, next-door, borderingOpposite distant, separateFamily adjacency (noun) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| barrenadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing land that is too poor or dry for plants to grow.Nothing grew on the barren slope except a few grey tufts of grass between the rocks. | Related wordsSimilar infertile, bare, unproductiveOpposite fertile, lushFamily barrenness (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| erodeverbStrong | MeaningTo wear something away slowly, as wind, rain or waves do to rock.Winter storms continue to erode the cliff, and each spring the footpath is moved further inland. | Related wordsSimilar wear away, eat away, wear downOpposite build up, depositFamily erosion (noun), eroded (adjective) | PractiseAffix Slot Machine |
| fertileadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing soil or land that is rich and good for growing plants.The valley floor was so fertile that beans, marrows and sunflowers shot up within weeks. | Related wordsSimilar rich, fruitful, productiveOpposite barren, infertileFamily fertility (noun), fertilise (verb), fertiliser (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| humidadjectiveStrong | MeaningWarm and full of moisture, so the air feels damp.The greenhouse was humid and sticky, and beads of water ran down the glass panes. | Related wordsSimilar muggy, sticky, damp, clammyOpposite dry, crispFamily humidity (noun), humidify (verb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| ruggedadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing land that is rough, rocky and uneven.The rugged coast path climbed over boulders and dipped into coves where seals lay basking. | Related wordsSimilar rocky, rough, craggyOpposite smooth, flatFamily ruggedly (adverb), ruggedness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| thicketnounStrong | MeaningA dense group of bushes or small trees growing closely together.The rabbit vanished into a thicket of brambles where no dog could follow. | Related wordsSimilar copse, undergrowth, scrubOpposite clearing, glade | PractiseRedacted Files |
| torrentnounStrong | MeaningA fast, powerful rush of water, often after heavy rain.By teatime the gentle stream had become a torrent, dragging branches and even a bench downhill. | Related wordsSimilar flood, deluge, gushOpposite trickle, dribbleFamily torrential (adjective), torrentially (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| tranquiladjectiveStrong | MeaningCalm, peaceful and free from noise.By early morning the lake was tranquil, its surface flat as glass without a ripple. | Related wordsSimilar peaceful, calm, still, restfulOpposite noisy, chaoticFamily tranquillity (noun), tranquilly (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| precipicenounStretch | MeaningA very high, steep cliff face or rock edge with a sheer drop.The path ended at a precipice, and the sheep grazed calmly a metre from the drop. | Related wordsSimilar cliff, sheer drop, cragOpposite plain, flat groundFamily precipitous (adjective), precipitously (adverb) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| secludedadjectiveStretch | MeaningHidden away and not easily seen; quiet and private.Behind the tall hedge lay a secluded garden that few visitors to the park ever found. | Related wordsSimilar hidden, sheltered, private, tucked awayOpposite exposed, busyFamily seclude (verb), seclusion (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| undulatingadjectiveStretch | MeaningDescribing land that rises and falls gently in wave-like slopes.From the train window we watched undulating fields roll past like a green sea. | Related wordsSimilar rolling, wavy, hillyOpposite flat, levelFamily undulate (verb), undulation (noun) | PractiseRedacted Files |
Sights, sounds and the senses 20
How things look, sound, feel, smell and taste. The words that make a description vivid, and that questions ask you to explain.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| dazzlingadjectiveFoundation | MeaningSo bright that it is hard to look at.Sunlight bounced off the snow in a dazzling glare that made everyone squint and reach for sunglasses. | Related wordsSimilar blinding, brilliant, glaringOpposite dim, dullFamily dazzle (verb), dazzled (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| deafeningadjectiveFoundation | MeaningSo loud that it hurts your ears.The thunder was deafening, and the dog dived under the table with his paws over his ears. | Related wordsSimilar ear-splitting, thunderous, boomingOpposite silent, hushedFamily deafen (verb), deaf (adjective), deafness (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| dimadjectiveFoundation | MeaningDescribing light that is weak and makes things hard to see.In the dim glow of the torch, the tent looked much bigger than it really was. | Related wordsSimilar weak, shadowy, murky, gloomyOpposite bright, dazzlingFamily dimly (adverb), dimness (noun), dim (verb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| flickerverbFoundation | MeaningTo burn or shine unsteadily, going bright and dark very quickly.The candle began to flicker in the draught, throwing jumpy shadows across the ceiling. | Related wordsSimilar flutter, twinkle, quiverOpposite glow, blazeFamily flicker (noun), flickering (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| glistenverbFoundation | MeaningTo shine with a wet or sparkling light, like dew or raindrops.After the shower the cobwebs began to glisten, each thread strung with tiny drops. | Related wordsSimilar sparkle, shimmer, twinkle, glitterOpposite dull, darkenFamily glistening (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| hushnounFoundation | MeaningA sudden silence, especially after there has been noise.A hush fell over the hall as the curtain twitched and the lights went down. | Related wordsSimilar silence, quiet, stillnessOpposite uproar, racketFamily hush (verb), hushed (adjective) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| peculiaradjectiveFoundationKS2 spelling Y3-4 | MeaningDescribing something strange or odd, unlike what you would usually expect.A peculiar smell, like burnt toast mixed with seaweed, drifted out of the science cupboard. | Related wordsSimilar strange, odd, curious, bizarreOpposite ordinary, normalFamily peculiarity (noun), peculiarly (adverb) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| reekverbFoundation | MeaningTo give off a very strong and unpleasant smell.The changing rooms reek of damp socks by the end of every Friday swimming lesson. | Related wordsSimilar stink, smell, whiffOpposite freshenFamily reek (noun), reeking (adjective) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| rustleverbFoundation | MeaningTo make a soft, dry, whispering sound, like leaves moving.Something began to rustle in the hedge, and a hedgehog shuffled out onto the path. | Related wordsSimilar swish, whisper, crackleOpposite crash, boomFamily rustle (noun), rustling (adjective) | PractiseSimile Matcher |
| elaborateadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing something with many detailed and complicated parts.The wedding cake was elaborate, with sugar roses, tiny birds and seven tiers of icing. | Related wordsSimilar intricate, detailed, ornate, fancyOpposite simple, plainFamily elaborate (verb), elaboration (noun), elaborately (adverb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| fragrantadjectiveStrong | MeaningHaving a pleasant, sweet smell.The lavender bushes by the gate were so fragrant that bees hummed around them all afternoon. | Related wordsSimilar sweet-smelling, perfumed, aromaticOpposite smelly, foulFamily fragrance (noun), fragrantly (adverb) | PractiseWord Bridge |
| monotonousadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing a sound or activity that never changes and becomes boring.The monotonous hum of the fridge went on all night, the same flat note without a pause. | Related wordsSimilar dull, repetitive, tedious, unvaryingOpposite varied, livelyFamily monotony (noun), monotonously (adverb), monotone (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| muffledadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing a sound made quieter and less clear by something covering it.Through the thick wall we could hear the muffled thump of next door's drum kit. | Related wordsSimilar dulled, deadened, indistinctOpposite clear, loudFamily muffle (verb), muffler (noun) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| shrilladjectiveStrong | MeaningHigh, sharp and unpleasant to hear.A shrill whistle cut across the playground and every game stopped at once. | Related wordsSimilar piercing, high-pitched, screechingOpposite deep, softFamily shrilly (adverb), shrillness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| silhouettenounStrong | MeaningA dark outline of someone or something seen against a brighter background.At sunset the old oak became a black silhouette against an orange sky. | Related wordsSimilar outline, shadow, shape, profileOpposite clear pictureFamily silhouette (verb), silhouetted (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| vividadjectiveStrong | MeaningBright, strong and full of life.The parrot's vivid feathers were so bright they seemed to glow against the grey drizzle. | Related wordsSimilar bright, brilliant, striking, colourfulOpposite dull, fadedFamily vividly (adverb), vividness (noun) | PractiseSynonym Spectrum |
| cacophonynounStretch | MeaningA harsh, unpleasant mixture of loud sounds all happening at once.The school orchestra's first practice was a cacophony of squeaks, honks and clattering cymbals. | Related wordsSimilar din, racket, uproar, clamourOpposite harmony, silenceFamily cacophonous (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| dappledadjectiveStretch | MeaningDescribing something marked with patches of light and shade or colour.The pony stood in dappled shade beneath the apple tree, spots of sunlight moving on its back. | Related wordsSimilar speckled, mottled, spotted, fleckedOpposite plain, uniformFamily dapple (verb), dapple (noun) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| pungentadjectiveStretch | MeaningStrong, sharp and hard to ignore, of a smell or taste.The pungent smell of vinegar from the chip shop reached us before we turned the corner. | Related wordsSimilar sharp, strong, acrid, overpoweringOpposite mild, blandFamily pungency (noun), pungently (adverb) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| translucentadjectiveStretch | MeaningDescribing something that lets light through but is not fully see-through.The sea glass was translucent, glowing green when Amira held it up to the sun. | Related wordsSimilar semi-transparent, frosted, milkyOpposite opaqueFamily translucence (noun), translucency (noun) | PractiseWord Bridge |
Story and language craft words 14
The terms comprehension questions use: narrator, setting, simile, atmosphere. A child cannot answer a question whose wording they do not know.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| alliterationnounFoundation | MeaningThe use of the same first sound in several words close together.'Slippery slugs slide slowly' is packed with alliteration, all those hissing s sounds. | Related wordsSimilar initial rhyme, sound repetitionOpposite plain proseFamily alliterate (verb), alliterative (adjective) | PractiseSimile Matcher |
| metaphornounFoundation | MeaningA way of describing something by saying it is something else.Calling the playground 'a zoo at feeding time' is a metaphor, since it is not really a zoo. | Related wordsSimilar comparison, image, figure of speechOpposite literal statementFamily metaphorical (adjective), metaphorically (adverb) | PractiseSimile Matcher |
| narratornounFoundation | MeaningThe person or character who tells a story to the reader.The narrator of the book is a ten-year-old girl, so we only know what she notices. | Related wordsSimilar storyteller, teller, voiceOpposite listener, readerFamily narrate (verb), narration (noun), narrative (noun) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| settingnounFoundation | MeaningThe place and time in which the events of a story happen.The setting is a snowbound Scottish village in 1950, which explains why nobody has a phone. | Related wordsSimilar location, backdrop, sceneOpposite characters | PractiseComprehension X-Ray |
| similenounFoundation | MeaningA comparison of two things using the words 'like' or 'as'.'Her hands were as cold as frogs' is a simile that made the whole class shiver. | Related wordsSimilar comparison, likeness, figure of speechOpposite literal descriptionFamily similar (adjective), similarity (noun) | PractiseSimile Matcher |
| atmospherenounStrong | MeaningThe mood or feeling that a place or piece of writing gives you.Fog, a creaking gate and a distant bell gave the opening chapter a spooky atmosphere. | Related wordsSimilar mood, feeling, ambienceOpposite blandnessFamily atmospheric (adjective) | PractiseComprehension X-Ray |
| climaxnounStrong | MeaningThe most exciting or important moment in a story, usually near the end.At the climax of the play, the lighthouse lamp finally blazes and the boat turns for shore. | Related wordsSimilar peak, high point, turning point, crisisOpposite anticlimax, beginningFamily climactic (adjective), climax (verb) | PractiseRedacted Files |
| figurativeadjectiveStrong | MeaningDescribing language that means more than its exact words, using images and comparisons.When Dad says he has 'a mountain of washing', he is being figurative, not measuring it. | Related wordsSimilar metaphorical, symbolic, non-literalOpposite literalFamily figuratively (adverb) | PractiseSimile Matcher |
| onomatopoeianounStrong | MeaningA word whose sound copies the noise it describes, such as 'buzz'.The poet used onomatopoeia, so the rain went 'drip, patter, splash' right across the page. | Related wordsSimilar sound word, echo word, imitative wordOpposite plain descriptionFamily onomatopoeic (adjective) | PractiseSimile Matcher |
| personificationnounStrong | MeaningGiving human feelings or actions to an object, animal or idea.'The wind howled angrily at the windows' uses personification, because wind cannot really feel angry. | Related wordsSimilar humanising, figure of speech, embodimentOpposite literal descriptionFamily personify (verb), personified (adjective) | PractiseSimile Matcher |
| suspensenounStrong | MeaningA feeling of nervous excitement while waiting to find out what happens.The author builds suspense by ending each chapter just as the door begins to open. | Related wordsSimilar tension, anticipation, uncertaintyOpposite relief, resolutionFamily suspenseful (adjective), suspend (verb) | PractiseComprehension X-Ray |
| evokeverbStretch | MeaningTo bring a feeling, memory or picture into someone's mind.The smell of chlorine can evoke the whole of last summer's swimming holiday in a second. | Related wordsSimilar summon, conjure up, stir, call to mindOpposite dispel, blot outFamily evocative (adjective), evocation (noun) | PractiseComprehension X-Ray |
| hyperbolenounStretch | MeaningDeliberate exaggeration used for effect, not meant to be taken literally.'I've told you a million times to shut the gate' is hyperbole, not a real count. | Related wordsSimilar exaggeration, overstatementOpposite understatementFamily hyperbolic (adjective) | PractiseSimile Matcher |
| ironynounStretch | MeaningUsing words that mean the opposite of what you really think, often to be funny.'Lovely weather for a picnic,' said Mum with irony, as hail bounced off the car roof. | Related wordsSimilar sarcasm, dry humour, wry humourOpposite sincerity, earnestnessFamily ironic (adjective), ironically (adverb) | PractiseComprehension X-Ray |
Linking words and precise adverbs 14
Connectives and modifiers that change the meaning of a sentence. Cloze and sentence-completion questions turn on exactly these.
| Word | Meaning | Similar and opposite | Practise |
|---|---|---|---|
| althoughconjunctionFoundationKS2 spelling Y3-4 | MeaningUsed to join two ideas when the second one is surprising after the first.Although the pool was freezing, Tomasz swam twenty lengths before breakfast. | Related wordsSimilar though, even though, whileOpposite because, since | PractiseMind the Gap |
| barelyadverbFoundation | MeaningOnly just; by a very small amount.The kite barely cleared the telephone wires before the wind snatched it higher. | Related wordsSimilar hardly, scarcely, only justOpposite easily, amply | PractiseMind the Gap |
| despiteprepositionFoundation | MeaningUsed to say that something happened even though another thing might have stopped it.Despite the drizzle, the whole street turned out for the summer fete on the green. | Related wordsSimilar in spite of, regardless of, notwithstandingOpposite because of, thanks to | PractiseMind the Gap |
| howeveradverbFoundation | MeaningUsed to add a point that goes against what was just said.The forecast promised sunshine; however, we spent the whole afternoon sheltering under the pier. | Related wordsSimilar nevertheless, but, still, yetOpposite therefore, moreover | PractiseMind the Gap |
| otherwiseadverbFoundation | MeaningUsed to say what will happen if something is not done.Put the guinea pigs in the shed tonight, otherwise the frost will get them. | Related wordsSimilar or else, if notOpposite if so | PractiseMind the Gap |
| thereforeadverbFoundationKS2 spelling Y3-4 | MeaningFor that reason; as a result of what has just been said.The river had burst its banks; therefore the footpath to school was closed for a week. | Related wordsSimilar so, consequently, thus, henceOpposite however, neverthelessFamily thereby (adverb), thereafter (adverb) | PractiseMind the Gap |
| consequentlyadverbStrong | MeaningAs a result of something that happened before.Nobody watered the tomatoes all week; consequently, they wilted and the leaves turned yellow. | Related wordsSimilar therefore, as a result, hence, soOpposite regardless, neverthelessFamily consequence (noun), consequent (adjective), consequential (adjective) | PractiseMind the Gap |
| furthermoreadverbStrong | MeaningUsed to add another point that supports what has been said.The tent leaks; furthermore, someone has left the torch switched on all night. | Related wordsSimilar moreover, in addition, besides, alsoOpposite however, conversely | PractiseMind the Gap |
| merelyadverbStrong | MeaningOnly; nothing more than what is mentioned.The noise was merely the cat knocking a pan off the draining board, not a burglar. | Related wordsSimilar only, simply, just, purelyOpposite fully, entirelyFamily mere (adjective) | PractiseMind the Gap |
| utterlyadverbStrong | MeaningCompletely and totally, with nothing held back.By the end of the muddy walk her wellies were utterly ruined. | Related wordsSimilar completely, totally, absolutely, entirelyOpposite slightly, partlyFamily utter (adjective) | PractiseMind the Gap |
| whereasconjunctionStrong | MeaningUsed to compare two facts and show how they are different.Maya loves the sea, whereas her brother refuses to go past the rock pools. | Related wordsSimilar while, but, by contrastOpposite likewise, similarly | PractiseMind the Gap |
| invariablyadverbStretch | MeaningAlways happening in the same way, without a single exception.The ice-cream van invariably arrives just as we sit down to dinner. | Related wordsSimilar always, without fail, unfailingly, consistentlyOpposite occasionally, sometimesFamily invariable (adjective), vary (verb), variable (adjective) | PractiseMind the Gap |
| notwithstandingprepositionStretch | MeaningUsed to say that something is true in spite of another thing.Notwithstanding the wasps, the picnic by the canal was a great success. | Related wordsSimilar despite, in spite of, regardless ofOpposite because of, owing to | PractiseMind the Gap |
| subsequentlyadverbStretch | MeaningAfter that; at a later time.The library flooded in January and subsequently closed for three months while the carpets dried out. | Related wordsSimilar afterwards, later, nextOpposite previously, beforehandFamily subsequent (adjective) | PractiseRedacted Files |
Prefer it on paper?
Both editions have a tick box beside every word, so a family can mark what is already known.
Reading a list gives recognition. The exam wants recall.
Every word above is tagged with the Trace Learn skill it supports. These free exercises drill those skills under a clock, in the formats papers use. No sign-up, and nothing a child does is recorded.
| Exercise | What it drills | Words here |
|---|---|---|
| Synonym Spectrum | What it drillsThese all mean "walked". Drag them onto the rail, calmest on the left. | Words from this list296 |
| Mind the Gap | What it drillsOnly one of these words belongs in the gap. Keep it, and throw the rest away. | Words from this list123 |
| Redacted Files | What it drillsFour words have been censored. Decode each one using the clues around it. | Words from this list123 |
| Word Bridge | What it drillsFull is to empty as happy is to…? | Words from this list119 |
| Question Forge | What it drillsThree questions, three lines they were forged from. Hammer each pair together. | Words from this list93 |
| Affix Slot Machine | What it drillsSpin the reels until the three parts build the word in the definition, then pull the lever. | Words from this list65 |
Skill pages this list supports: Select a synonym, Interpret a word in context, Select closest meaning, Select an antonym, Form a derived word, Select opposite meaning, Complete a verbal context gap, Apply a prefix or suffix.
Questions parents ask
- How many words are on the 11 plus vocabulary list?
- 254 words in three tiers: 106 foundation, 101 strong and 47 stretch, grouped into 14 themed sections. Every word has a child-friendly definition, an original example sentence and synonyms, plus antonyms and its word family where they exist.
- Which tier should my child learn first?
- Start with foundation. Those are the words a confident Year 5 reader meets in class reading, and they carry the closest-in-meaning and sentence-completion marks most children can win. Move to strong once foundation words are automatic, and treat stretch as extra for a well-read Year 6 child.
- Is the PDF free, and do I need to sign up?
- Yes, both PDFs are free and there is no sign-up. The colour edition has a cover and section artwork; the printer-friendly edition is black and white with the same words and a tick-box column so a family can mark the words their child already knows.
- Does the list cover every 11 plus exam board?
- Vocabulary questions differ by area. GL Assessment papers use multiple-choice closest-in-meaning and sentence-completion items, and CSSE and some school-set papers ask for words in a passage or written answers. The list is built for the underlying skill, which is the same everywhere: knowing a word precisely enough to pick it from close alternatives. Always check your own admissions authority's familiarisation material for the format.
- How is this different from other 11 plus word lists?
- Every definition, example sentence and pairing here was written for this list, and each word is tagged to the Trace Learn skill it supports, so you can move straight from the list to a free interactive exercise on that skill. The statutory Key Stage 2 spelling words that appear are marked so you can see what school already expects.
How this list was made: every definition, sentence and pairing was written for Trace Learn and reviewed for age-appropriateness, dictionary accuracy and British spelling; words on the national curriculum statutory spelling lists (English Appendix 1, Open Government Licence v3.0) are marked. For how these words are tested in verbal reasoning papers, read our 11+ verbal reasoning guide.