KS2 SATs English: Vocabulary and Word Meaning Guide

Synonyms and antonyms

A synonym is a word with a similar meaning (happy/joyful). An antonym is a word with the opposite meaning (happy/sad). SATs questions often ask you to choose the best synonym in context, not just any similar word.

Word roots

Many English words share Latin or Greek roots. Knowing that "tele" means "far" helps you work out telephone, television and telescope all involve something happening or being seen at a distance.

Using a dictionary and thesaurus

A dictionary gives a word's meaning and often its word class. A thesaurus gives alternative words with similar meanings — useful for improving your own writing, but always check the alternative fits the context.

Common mistakes

• Choosing a synonym that doesn't fit the tone or formality of the sentence.
• Assuming a word always means the same thing regardless of context.
• Overusing a thesaurus in writing, which can make sentences sound unnatural.