Writing Tip 13 - Word Choice

When writing be aware that your vocabulary is limited by your experience.  Reaching beyond your own vocabulary enriches your writing.  So many words are available in the English language, yet most of us aren't familiar with but a fraction of them.  Granted, many available words are unlikely to be understood by most readers, but for each one of these, there are 2 or 3 gems not often used but widely understood and interesting.  Challenge and inform your readers by using words they may not be familiar with, but should be.  Don't go overboard by using words that are too ivory towerish, condescending, or obtrusive (unpleasantly or unduly noticeable).

 

Pepper your writing with words outside your customary vocabulary.  Just don't overdo it.  Making a deliberate practice of this over time is sound writing policy.