By learning new vocabulary through the study of synonym groups, students relate new words to a centrally shared meaning, learn the definition of each individual word in the group, and compare meaning between the words. This approach allows students to distinguish between words to make critical, correct vocabulary choices whenever they speak, read, or write.

Each chapter presents a list of synonymous nouns, adjectives, and verbs as new words for study. Utilizing lessons, exercises, readings, and discussion and writing questions, Distinguishing Words gives students the tools they need to not only sharpen their vocabularies but also to decipher shades of meaning.