Sentence Equivalence
What is Sentence Equivalence?
Sentence Equivalence questions require you to select two answer choices that both complete a sentence in a way that produces sentences with equivalent meanings.
- 20% of Verbal section
- One sentence with a single blank
- Six answer choices provided
- Must select exactly TWO answers that create sentences alike in meaning
- Both answers must be correct to earn credit (no partial credit)
What Sentence Equivalence Tests
Synonym Recognition
Identifying words with similar meanings that function equivalently in context.
Nuanced Vocabulary
Understanding subtle differences between near-synonyms and connotations.
Context Understanding
Determining meaning from sentence structure and surrounding context clues.
Semantic Coherence
Ensuring both word choices create logically consistent, meaningful sentences.
Essential Strategies
1. Read and Predict First
Before looking at the answer choices, read the sentence carefully and predict your own word for the blank. This helps you avoid being misled by attractive but incorrect options.
2. Look for Synonym Pairs
Your task is to find TWO words that are synonyms or near-synonyms. Scan the answer choices for pairs of similar words.
Example choices:
If you see "reluctant" and "hesitant" among the choices, these form a synonym pair worth considering.
3. Test Each Word Independently
Don't just check if two words are synonyms—verify that EACH word makes sense in the sentence. Both must create logical, coherent sentences when inserted into the blank.
Warning: Two words might be synonyms but still both be wrong for the context!
4. Consider Tone and Connotation
Two words might have similar dictionary definitions but different connotations (positive, negative, or neutral). The correct pair must match the tone of the sentence.
5. Eliminate Non-Synonym Choices
If a word doesn't have a synonym partner among the six choices, it cannot be correct. This helps you narrow down options quickly.
6. Verify Equivalent Meaning
After selecting your two answers, read the sentence twice—once with each word. The sentences should convey the same essential meaning, not just be grammatically correct.
Common Traps to Avoid
Trap 1: The Obvious Synonym Pair
The test makers might include an obvious synonym pair that doesn't actually fit the sentence context. Always test each word in the blank!
Example: "happy" and "joyful" are clear synonyms, but if the sentence describes a sad situation, neither word fits.
Trap 2: Related But Not Synonymous
Some words might be related to the topic but aren't true synonyms.
Example: "doctor" and "patient" are related to medicine but have opposite meanings.
Trap 3: Similar Sound, Different Meaning
Don't confuse words that sound similar but have different meanings.
Example: "elusive" (hard to find) vs. "illusive" (deceptive/illusory)
Trap 4: Choosing Only One Correct Word
You might find one perfect word but struggle to find its pair. Don't settle—there's always a valid synonym pair among the six choices.
Example Walkthrough
"Despite the team's ___ efforts, they were unable to complete the project on time."
Answer Choices:
- minimal
- strenuous
- lackadaisical
- vigorous
- sporadic
- intermittent
Step-by-Step Solution:
- Predict: The word "Despite" signals a contrast. They couldn't finish despite their efforts, suggesting the efforts were strong/intense.
- Find synonym pairs:
- "strenuous" and "vigorous" are synonyms (both mean intense/energetic)
- "sporadic" and "intermittent" are synonyms (both mean irregular/occasional)
- Test in context:
- "Despite strenuous efforts..." ✓ Makes sense (contrast works)
- "Despite sporadic efforts..." ✗ No contrast (sporadic efforts → failure makes sense)
- Answer: B (strenuous) and D (vigorous)
Expert Tips
- ✓Vocabulary is key. The more words you know, the easier it is to spot synonym pairs. Use our 43-day vocabulary program.
- ✓Trust the process. There's always exactly one correct pair among the six choices.
- ✓Pay attention to parts of speech. Make sure both words are the same part of speech and grammatically fit the sentence.
- ✓Time wisely: Aim for 1-1.5 minutes per question. Don't get stuck overthinking.
- ✓Practice makes perfect. The more questions you do, the better you'll become at quickly identifying synonym pairs.
Ready to Practice?
Test your understanding with our sentence equivalence practice questions at all difficulty levels.