Wondering how to expand your vocabulary in English?
Learn synonyms, meaning words with the same or a similar meaning as another word. These are great words to add to your vocabulary, so you can speak English more fluently.
For example, the words big and large are synonyms. Buy and purchase are also synonyms – although we tend to use “buy” in a more informal context, and “purchase” in a more formal context.
Keep in mind that some synonyms in the list below might not be “perfect” synonyms – there may be slight differences in meaning and connotation. For example, the words smart and wise. Both of them mean “intelligent,” but the word wise also implies that the person has additional good judgement and deep perception about life.
Synonyms are often used in different collocations, too. For example, we can describe either a person or an idea as brilliant, but only a person can be astute, meaning able to evaluate things accurately.
Powerful, potent, and firm are synonyms for strong. A person with a strong voice can have a powerful voice, but not a potent voice. A strong alcoholic drink can be potent, but not firm.
If you’re not sure how to use the synonyms below – or if you want to see example sentences – check this dictionary and this sample sentence search.
Now let’s learn 100 synonyms for 20 common English vocabulary words!
Synonyms for SMART
- bright
- sharp
- brilliant
- astute
- wise
Synonyms for STUPID
- dumb
- idiotic
- dimwitted
- slow
- dense
Synonyms for ESSENTIAL
- crucial
- critical
- vital
- integral
- indispensable
Synonyms for IRRELEVANT
- inconsequential
- useless
- meaningless
- trivial
- insignificant
Synonyms for EXCELLENT
- magnificent
- phenomenal
- top-notch
- world-class
- outstanding
Synonyms for ACCEPTABLE
- fitting
- suitable
- satisfactory
- adequate
- appropriate
Synonyms for AWFUL
- horrible
- abominable
- repulsive
- despicable
- atrocious
Synonyms for INTERESTING
- captivating
- enchanting
- fascinating
- enthralling
- intriguing
Synonyms for BORING
- dull
- tiresome
- mundane
- humdrum
- monotonous
Synonyms for UNCERTAIN
- doubtful
- questionable
- dubious
- far-fetched
- unproven
Synonyms for NEW
- modern
- contemporary
- up-to-date
- novel
- fresh
Synonyms for OLD
- outdated
- antiquated
- obsolete
- archaic
- old-fashioned
Synonyms for EASY
- simple
- child’s play
- straightforward
- effortless
- uncomplicated
Synonyms for DIFFICULT
- challenging
- daunting
- taxing
- tough
- tricky
Synonyms for STRONG
- powerful
- intense
- firm
- solid
- potent
Synonyms for WEAK
- frail
- feeble
- shaky
- flimsy
- fragile
Synonyms for HUGE
- colossal
- gigantic
- astronomical
- immense
- gargantuan
Synonyms for TINY
- minuscule
- itsy-bitsy
- microscopic
- dinky
- minute
Synonyms for MANY
- copious
- abundant
- numerous
- ample
- bountiful
Synonyms for BIT
- smidgen
- dash
- iota
- pinch
- shred
Synonyms for EXCESS
- glut
- plethora
- wealth
- surplus
- overabundance
Now go use your expanded vocabulary in your next English conversation!