Antonym

Definition

An antonym is a word that means the opposite of another, such as HOT and COLD. Antonym pairs strengthen vocabulary networks by defining a word against its contrast.

Why it matters

Learning words alongside their opposites deepens understanding and gives memory an extra retrieval cue.

Examples

• UP and DOWN.
• BRAVE and TIMID.

Best practices

• Pair each new word with its antonym.
• Use opposites to clarify shades of meaning.

Frequently asked