Use a thesaurus strategically — choose by connotation, register, and rhythm (CCSS L.7.4.c)
Exercise Difficulty 3 ~7 min eng.g7.s.ex_40

Thesaurus Choice

Prompt

For 'said' the thesaurus gives: declared, whispered, argued, mumbled, asserted, opined, articulated. Choose the BEST fit for each context. (1) She _____ her thesis confidently. (2) He _____ quietly to his neighbor. (3) The lawyer _____ that the witness was unreliable. (4) The toddler _____ a half-formed sentence.

Answer criteria
type classification
correct
  1. asserted
  2. whispered
  3. argued
  4. mumbled
Hints
  1. Each synonym carries different connotation + register.
  2. Verify in dictionary if uncertain.
Misconceptions to watch
  • Picks the most-formal-sounding word regardless of context.
  • Treats synonyms as interchangeable.