Thesauri Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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thesauri
[ฮธษชหsษหrษs ]
Definition
reference book
A thesaurus is a reference work that groups words together according to similarity of meaning (synonyms) and sometimes by antonyms. It helps writers enhance their vocabulary and find the right word for a particular context. Unlike a dictionary, which provides definitions, a thesaurus focuses on words that convey similar concepts. Using a thesaurus can improve clarity and conciseness in writing.
Synonyms
lexicon, synonym dictionary, wordbook.
Examples of usage
- I used a thesaurus to find alternatives for 'happy'.
- The writer consulted a thesaurus to improve his manuscript.
- She found the perfect synonym in her thesaurus.
- Using a thesaurus can help diversify your language.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Writers throughout history have used thesauri to expand their vocabulary and find the perfect word to fit their writing style.
- Famous authors, like Mark Twain and Ernest Hemingway, valued synonyms when crafting their sentences to convey precise meanings.
- Many novels include wordplay and clever language, often relying on varied word choices found in a thesaurus.
Psychology
- Using synonyms can enhance comprehension and engagement in communication, making language more accessible.
- Studies show that diverse vocabulary can be linked to higher intelligence scores and better problem-solving skills.
- Emotional connections to words can be deepened through varied expressions, as different synonyms carry unique connotations.
Education
- Teachers often encourage students to use a thesaurus to develop their writing and avoid repetitive language.
- Many curricula include lessons on effective word choice, emphasizing the importance of a rich vocabulary for clear communication.
- Thesauri are useful for learners of all ages, from young students writing essays to professionals crafting reports.
Pop Culture
- Thesauri often appear in media, such as movies and TV shows, symbolizing intelligence or the art of writing.
- In comedy, using unexpected synonyms can create humor by altering familiar phrases into something unpredictable.
- Popular games like Scrabble and crossword puzzles also encourage players to think creatively about vocabulary, similar to using a thesaurus.
Origin of 'thesauri'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'thesaurus' comes from the Greek word 'thฤsauros', meaning 'treasure' or 'storehouse'.
- The first modern thesaurus was published in 1852 by Peter Mark Roget, called Roget's Thesaurus.
- The plural form 'thesauri' follows the Latin rules for words that come from Greek.
The word 'thesaurus' comes from the Latin 'thesaurus', which means 'treasure' or 'storehouse'. This term can be traced back further to the ancient Greek word 'thฤsauros', meaning 'treasure' or 'repository'. The modern use of 'thesaurus' to refer to a book of synonyms was popularized in the 18th century, particularly through the work of Peter Mark Roget, who published 'Roget's Thesaurus of English Words and Phrases' in 1852. Roget's thesaurus organized words thematically rather than alphabetically, and it set a precedent for many subsequent thesauri. The emphasis on grouping words by meaning has made thesauruses invaluable tools for writers, educators, and anyone looking to enrich their language.