Exercise 12

A) Look up the following words. Write a sentence of your own for each to demonstrate its correct use for each part of speech listed.

B) Fill in the blanks with the correct spelling and/or form, as given in the dictionary for each of the following words.

lie (to recline)

He was ___________ on the bed

reeve (to fasten)

The sailor (2 forms) his boat to wharf with a heavy line.

criterion The university has three for entrance in that program.

strive

Although he always (2 forms) to do his best, he sometimes failed.

referendum (plural form)

Quebec has already held two (2 forms) on sovereignty.

leap

His champion frog (2 forms) farther than the others.

learn

Vivian said that she had 2 forms) that three years ago.

sweep

Martha the floor many times during the day.

consortium

Pauline and her sisters formed two separate (2 forms) .

octopus

The children saw six (2 forms) when they went swimming

11. SYNONYMS

In addition to all this information, some dictionary entries also provide a list of synonyms (syn), words with similar meanings. The choice of synonyms is not as good as in a Thesaurus. Using synonyms found in the dictionary can be helpful, not only for finding an alternate word, but also for increasing your understanding of a new word.