Vocabulary test 01: advanced synonyms

This English synonyms test checks whether you know advanced words well enough to pick another word with a similar meaning. It has 10 multiple-choice questions on words such as audacity, gluttony and prosperity. It is for upper-intermediate and advanced learners (around C1) who want to read newspapers, novels and academic texts with confidence.

How to take this test

1. Read the word in each question and all four options.
2. Choose the option that is closest in meaning. Only one answer is correct.
3. Try not to use a dictionary. If you do not know a word, make your best guess or skip it.
4. When you finish, check your score and read the explanation for every answer.

What this test covers

Each question gives you one advanced word and asks for its synonym, a word with the same or nearly the same meaning. Most of the wrong options are antonyms, words with the opposite meaning, so you need to understand each word, not just recognise it. The words are mostly abstract nouns about character and behaviour, such as devotion, integrity and self-indulgence.

To grow this kind of vocabulary, study our one-word substitution list, which shows how one precise word can replace a whole phrase. If you are still building the basics, start with the 100 most common words in English. When you are ready for more, take vocabulary test 02. To check meanings and find more synonyms, use the Merriam-Webster Thesaurus of synonyms and antonyms.