Use Your Thesaurus
Today’s post is by veteran WriteAtHome writing coach, Rhonda Barfield. Thanks, Rhonda!
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When I was growing up, referencing a thesaurus often seemed like too much effort. I had to find the thick, unwieldy tome, locate a word among hundreds of pages, and copy it manually onto my typewriter or by hand. Today, the process is effortless. I click onto my online dictionary, key in the word, and shazam! Within seconds, several word options magically appear.
Sometimes I use the thesaurus when a word choice seems off-target. Recent examples include:
- helping me to promulgate. . . helping me to explain
- easy to stay a juvenile. . . easy to remain a juvenile
At other times, I’ve needed a synonym to avoid repetition, such as:
- people. . . individuals
- concentrate. . . focus
- achieved. . . reached
- explain. . . describe
- better. . . preferable
I also find it helpful when I’m trying to substitute a more precise word:
- the quote says your idea. . . the quote expresses your idea
- despite the good. . . despite the admirable. . .
Finally, the thesaurus offers options for replacing weak verbs:
- babies have. . . babies possess
- anything less is. . . anything less guarantees. . .
I reference this valuable resource many times daily. In fact, I recommend that all writers use/utilize/employ/wield/take advantage of the thesaurus.
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We’d love your comments! Leave them below.
LOVE the Merriam Webster app on my phone. I’m constantly using it (specifically for the thesaurus) when I’m writing throughout the day. It has been awesome!
Great recommendation. I’ll check it out.