The words you choose to use play an important role in how your argument or story are communicated to your audience. Using specific words in place of general and abstract ones helps your audience comprehend your intended meaning quickly and accurately.

Your word choices also affect the audience’s attitude toward your presentation; therefore, you need to choose words that will clearly and effectively convey your ideas. This kind of precise writing will help your audience understand your argument or story.

Almost anything can be described in either a general or specific manner. Depending on your intended purpose, general words cover a broad spectrum while specific words narrow the scope of your writing by providing more details. You can increase the clarity of your writing by choosing words that help your readers understand precisely what you mean in your writing.

Example of General Wording: She said, “I don’t want you to go.”

Example of Specific Wording: She murmured, “I don’t want you to go.”

The words “said” and “murmured” are similar in the sense that they are both a form of verbal communication. However, “murmured” provides the reader with a clear understanding of the manner in which she was speaking – a low tone that was difficult to hear. Not only can the use of certain words add description to your writing, it can also alter the intended meaning.

Effective writing employs a balance between general and specific words. Always using specific terms can overwhelm the reader and detract from your argument or story. And depending on what you are writing, general terms may be more appropriate. In scientific, technical, and other specialized areas, writers typically need to make general points, describe general circumstances, or provide general guidance.

Word Choice and Concise Writing

Even when writing in general terms, you want to pay attention to the sentence structure and wording that you use. In most cases, you will want to write in a thorough but concise manner.

Example of a Wordy Sentence: In the normal course of procedure, it is advised to avoid modifications in hiring procedures after they have been established.

Example of a Concise Sentence: Normally, it is best to avoid changing hiring processes after they have been established.

Both of these sentences make the same statement, but the wordy sentence is likely not appropriate for your article. Writing with precision helps hold your audience’s attention. Making statements too wordy in an argument can be dull for your readers and cause them to lose attention.

Think of your audience while writing. Often times, it is best to keep your writing concise. The more precise your writing is, the easier it will be for your reader to understand your argument. With concise writing, you can thoroughly cover your argument or story while maintaining the audience’s attention throughout your article.

Using a Dictionary and Thesaurus Effectively

Because words can differ depending on their context, it is a good idea to check the definition and spelling of any tricky words in a dictionary. If you are unsure of the exact meaning of a word, take the time to look it up in a dictionary.

It’s also worth noting that you should not trust your Word spell-check tool implicitly. If it suggests a bizarre correction for one of your words, it could be that you know a word it does not. When in doubt, always check a dictionary to be sure.

Vocabulary Choice and Style

If it feels like you keep repeating a word throughout your writing, reference a thesaurus to consider different, more diverse choices. A thesaurus can add some color and depth to a piece that may otherwise seem repetitive and mundane.

However, make sure that the word you substitute has the meaning you intend to convey. Thesauruses provide words with similar meanings, not identical meanings. If you are unsure about the precise meaning of a replacement word, look up the new word in a dictionary.

Using Words Accurately

Regardless of the words you use, you must use them accurately. Using a word incorrectly can distract readers from your argument or story. So how can you ensure that words are used accurately?

While it may not be easy, you can revisit text that uses the word and observe how the word is used in that instance. Try doing a Google search in a similar context to see if it results affirm your use. Additionally, you can consult a dictionary whenever you are uncertain. Always be cautious when you use words that are not yet part of your typical vocabulary.

Connotation

Connotation is the implied or suggested meaning of a word beyond its literal meaning. For example, “frugal” and “cheap” are related ways to describe how someone handles money, but they connote very different things. Someone who is “frugal” with their money has a positive connotation in that they are thrifty and smart about how they spend it. Someone who is “cheap” with their money has a negative connotation in that they are miserly and do anything to save money – typically at the cost of others.

Verbs, too, have connotations. For instance, to “suggest” that someone has overlooked a key fact is not the same as to “insinuate” it. To “devote” your time to working on a client’s project is not the same as to “spend” your time on it. The connotations of your words can shape your audience‘s perception of your argument or story.

Pay careful attention to the connotation, intended meaning, and variety of words you choose in your writing. Choosing your words wisely will help increase your writing’s clarity and overall engagement with your audience.

Source: Boundless. Revised and edited by Mindfray Team.

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