Synonyms and Antonyms for Banking Exams

Synonyms and Antonyms for Banking Exams:- Whether preparing for any competitive exam, English is an important subject, and vocabulary plays a key role in it. One of the most essential topics in the English language section is synonyms and antonyms. In banking exams like IBPS, SBI, and RBI, questions related to antonyms and synonyms are frequently asked to test a candidate’s understanding of words and their meanings. A strong vocabulary helps candidates score better and also improves their overall communication skills.

Many aspirants lose marks in the English section because they are not familiar with enough words or their meanings. This is why regular practice of synonyms and antonyms is necessary. Knowing different words with similar or opposite meanings not only helps in exams but also in day-to-day conversations and professional communication. Check out the below article to learn about antonyms and synonyms below.

What is a Synonym?

A synonym is a word that has the same or nearly the same meaning as another word in a particular context. Synonyms help in improving vocabulary, enhancing communication, and making writing more engaging. They are commonly used in competitive exams like banking, SSC, and IBPS, where vocabulary-based questions frequently appear.

Types of Synonyms:

1. Absolute Synonyms – Words that have exactly the same meaning and can be used interchangeably.

• Example: Big – Large, End – Finish

2. Relative Synonyms – Words that have similar meanings but may differ slightly in usage or intensity.

• Example: Happy – Cheerful (Cheerful is a more expressive form of happiness)

3. Contextual Synonyms – Words that have similar meanings only in specific contexts.

• Example: Bright – Intelligent (when referring to a person’s intellect)

Check Out: English Language Book For All Banking Exams 2024 - 2025

What is an Antonym?

An antonym is a word that has the opposite meaning of another word. Learning antonyms helps in understanding contrasts and opposites in language, which is useful in both spoken and written communication. Antonyms are often tested in banking exams through vocabulary-based questions.

Types of Antonyms:

1. Gradable Antonyms – Words that have opposite meanings but exist on a spectrum, meaning there can be degrees between them.

• Example: Hot – Cold (There can be warm, cool, and lukewarm in between)

2. Complementary Antonyms – Words that are absolute opposites, meaning if one exists, the other cannot.

• Example: Alive – Dead, True – False

3. Relational Antonyms – Words that have opposite meanings but are related and depend on each other.

• Example: Buy – Sell, Give – Receive

Antonyms and Synonyms List

Check out below table for Synonyms and Antonyms list from the below table:- 

How to Study Synonyms and Antonyms for Banking Exams?

Whether preparing for banking exams, such as SBI PO, IBPS PO, IBPS Clerk, or other government exams, improving vocabulary is very important. The English section includes synonyms and antonyms questions, which test a candidate’s knowledge of similar and opposite words. A strong vocabulary helps not only in exams but also in daily communication. Here’s a simple way to study antonyms and synonyms effectively.

1. Read Daily to Learn New Words

• Read newspapers, books, and magazines to come across different words.

• Focus on editorials and articles where advanced vocabulary is often used.

• Keep a notebook and write down new words with their meanings, using a synonyms and antonyms list for reference.

2. Use a Synonyms and Antonyms List A to Z

• A well-organised synonyms and antonyms list A to Z helps in quick revision.

• Learn commonly asked words in exams and group them under categories like emotions, actions, and qualities.

3. Practice with Mock Tests & Previous Year Papers

• Solve previous year question papers to see what type of synonyms and antonyms questions are asked.

• Take mock tests and quizzes to improve speed and accuracy.

4. Use Simple Tricks to Remember Words

• Use mnemonics (memory techniques) to associate words with images or stories.

• Example: Benevolent (kind-hearted) – Imagine a person helping others.

• Learn word roots to guess meanings easily.

• Example: "Mal-" means bad, so malfunction = something not working properly.

5. Learn Words in Pairs

• Studying words in pairs makes learning easier.

• Example: Expand - Contract, Victory - Defeat.

• Use flashcards with one side having a word and the other side with its synonym or antonym.

6. Revise Regularly

• Spend 15-20 minutes daily revising new words.

• Use an antonyms and synonyms list A to Z to refresh your memory.

Read More: Simplification Questions For Bank Exams 2025

Synonyms and Antonyms FAQs

1. What are synonyms and antonyms?

• Synonyms are words with similar meanings (e.g., happy – joyful).

• Antonyms are words with opposite meanings (e.g., happy – sad).

2. Why are synonyms and antonyms important for banking exams?

They improve vocabulary and comprehension, which helps in solving questions in Reading Comprehension, Sentence Completion, and Error Detection.

3. How can I memorise synonyms and antonyms effectively?

Use flashcards, word lists, mnemonics, and regular practice.

4. Where can I find a complete synonyms and antonyms list A to Z?

Many websites and books provide synonyms and antonyms lists in English. You can also download PDFs for practice.

5. How are synonyms and antonyms tested in banking exams?

Questions appear in forms like direct word pair matching, sentence-based questions, and vocabulary-based comprehension.