ns of synonyms is,
that the writer merely associates stray ideas loosely connected with the
different words, sliding from synonym to synonym with no definite point
of departure or return, so that a smooth and at first sight pleasing
statement really gives the mind no definite resting-place and no sure
conclusion. A true discussion of synonyms is definition by comparison,
and for this there must be something definite with which to compare.
When the standard is settled, approximation or differentiation can be
determined with clearness and certainty. It is not enough to tell
something about each word. The thing to tell is how each word is related
to others of that particular group. When a word has more than one
prominent meaning, the synonyms for one signification are treated in one
group and a reference is made to some other group in which the synonyms
for another signification are treated, as may be seen by noting the
synonyms given under APPARENT, and following the reference to EVIDENT.

It has been impossible within the limits of this volume to treat in full
all the words of each group of synonyms. Sometimes it has been necessary
to restrict the statement to a mere suggestion of the correct use; in
some cases only the chief words of a group could be considered, giving
the key to the discussion, and leaving the student to follow out the
principle in the case of other words by reference to the definitive
statements of the dictionary. It is to be hoped that at some time a
dictionary of synonyms may be prepared, giving as full a list as that of
Roget or of Soule, with discriminating remarks upon every word. Such a
work would be of the greatest value, but obviously beyond the scope of a
text-book for the class-room.

The author has here incorporated, by permission of the publishers of the
Standard Dictionary, much of the synonym matter prepared by him for that
work. All has been thoroughly revised or reconstructed, and much wholly
new matter has been added.

The book contains also more than 3700 antonyms. These are valuable as
supplying definition by contrast or by negation, one of the most
effective methods of defining being in many cases to tell what a thing
is not. To speakers and writers antonyms are useful as furnishing
oftentimes effective antitheses.

Young writers will find much help from the indication of the correct use
of prepositions, the misuse of which is one of the most common of
errors, and one of the mo