Using a thesaurus: African butterfly
The Grammar Bit!
A thesaurus is a special type of dictionary that is full of synonyms (words that have similar meanings). Using a thesaurus regularly will help broaden your vocabulary and avoid repetition in your writing.
Read the first pair of sentences opposite (1A & 1B). When do you think the thesaurus was used? Could these words be replaced with different synonyms?
With your talk partner, read the second pair of sentences (2A & 2B). When do you think the thesaurus was used this time? Could these words be replaced with different synonyms?
Scintillating Sentences
1A) At the treeless peak of Mount Mabu, the beautiful butterflies gathered in huge numbers.
1B) At the treeless peak of Mount Mabu, the resplendent butterflies congregated in huge numbers.
2A) As the morning sun turned the sky crimson, the delicate butterflies began their acrobatic ballroom dance.
“You butter-fly away now – this is my rock!”