VI. Reading Comprehension
     The word “friend” has many synonyms (同義字), such as acquaintance, companion, pal, and so on. All these words have similar meanings, but they come from different languages and have different roots.
     The word “acquaintance” describes someone we know but whom we are not close to. It comes from Old French and stands for “to know perfectly.” However, the word “friend” in Old English means “to love,” showing that a friend is like a lover. Though the modern language distinguishes (區別) clearly between a lover and a friend, we can understand that a friend always means someone close and special, while an acquaintance is far less close.
     “Companion” originates (起源) from a Latin word “companionem,” which means “one whom we would eat bread with.” This word suggested that sharing a meal was considered a clear sign of friendship at that time. Last but not least, the word “pal” means brother or mate and is borrowed from the language of the gypsies.
     Over the years, these words have changed a lot and are now used to explain different types of friendship, from a casual friend to a buddy. These words can also point out the important role friendship plays in human society.
【題組】37.Which word is NOT a synonym for “friend” in modern times?
(A) Buddy.
(B) Lover.
(C) Companion.
(D) Pal.