Bill Bryson's "Troublesome Words" is an excellent book for, among other things, learning the difference between many synonyms, such as "prone," "prostrate," "recumbent" and "supine." But it can hardly be called a massive body of reference, and it deals with many other language issues. Having a reference for the differences between synonyms seems like it could be a much more effective way of understanding them than trying to tease out the differences of meaning in two possibly quite differently worded dictionary entries. Is there such a thing?
Learn English – reference for the differences between synonyms
synonyms
Best Answer
I agree with @JohnLawler but will add that good dictionaries will list not only synonyms, but etymologies which are often crucial to understanding the subtle differences between words. If you're feeling especially prescriptivist, you may want to look at anything from “Fowler's Modern English Usage” (which constructs wonderfully complex arrays of subtle word usage) to Strunk and White's “Elements of Style” (which includes a section “Words and Expressions Commonly Misused”). Note, however, that there are many guides on style and usage and no shortage of disputed points.