EFFECTS OF SYNONYMS IN ENGLISH AS SECOND LANGUAGE IN KENYA; A CRITICAL LITERATURE REVIEW

Purpose: Synonym is a paradigmatic relation that enables lexically simple units to have same meaning as lexically complex units and vice versa. It is necessary to develop student’s vocabulary by use of synonyms. By learning the synonym, the students not only know one word but also other words that have nearly same meaning on the text. The purpose of the study therefore is to evaluate the effects of synonyms in English as second language in Kenya. Methodology: The paper used a desk study review methodology where relevant empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes and to extract knowledge gaps. Conclusion: Learning vocabulary is one of the most efficient ways in improving the English students’ comprehension. The study concluded that it is necessary to develop students’ vocabulary by use of synonyms. By learning the synonym, the students not only know one word but also other words that have nearly same meaning on the text. Recommendations: The study concluded that teachers can use synonym in learning vocabulary with their own strategy or other subject to enrich students’ knowledge of English vocabulary. Also, students can use synonym in learning certain subject when the aim of their learning is comprehended. Further there is need for the government to procure and distribute enough teaching and learning materials that can facilitate the improvement of learning English vocabulary.