Trait 5--Word Choice

I keep using the same words over and over. What can I do to make my writing more interesting?

You are worried about your vocabulary being redundant and boring. It is important to try to use fresh, interesting, vivid language but just as important to not misuse words in an attempt at impressing your reader. Be sure that your word choices are accurate and specific, your verbs strong, and your imagery creative. Your writing should inform and entertain the reader, not overwhelm them with words that have too many syllables. How can you make strong word choices and use them in your writing?

• Use a thesaurus. Most word processing programs include a thesaurus or you could do it the old-fashioned way and use a bound thesaurus to look up alternatives to words.
• Ask for help. If you get stuck writing "very nice" over and over, ask a friend, teacher, or parents how they would say "very nice" instead.
• Proof read your paper aloud. It is easier to hear redundant or boring language than to see it on the page.
• Rely on descriptive, active verbs rather than adjectives or adverbs. For example, "He walked through the hallway very slowly" is not as clear as "He lumbered through the hallway."

OWL Home

NWREL's 6+1 TRAITS of Writing Rubrics and Definitions

Copyright 2003 Edina Public Schools