Using a Thesaurus When You Write

 

Do you settle for mundane words instead of searching for ones that are more colorful, more descriptive? 

Our poster for today shows you a two-column list of synonyms for the simple word 'want.' Can you believe that there are so many? Some are simply one word while others are a phrase. Whichever, each means 'want.' 

When you're proofreading your drafts, search for the simple words that might be made more interesting. I guarantee you will find many. If you can't dredge a few substitutions from the top of your head, there is always the old reliable thesaurus to help you. A thesaurus is a reference tool to help you find synonyms (other words with the same meaning) to substitute.

For those not familiar with this helpful tool for writers, start by looking up the word you want to enhance in the alphabetical listing. It's set up much like a dictionary. Under the word you found, there will be a list of suitable words to use in place of the original one. 

We all too often repeat words in a sentence or a paragraph. I've critiqued some submissions that repeat a word like 'need' as many as three or four times in one paragraph. Readers notice it and find it boring. If you want to pep up your writing, use your thesaurus and find substitutions to use in some of those spots. 

Why do some writers avoid finding synonyms or using a thesaurus to do so? It comes down to lazy writing which leads to boring writing. Have you ever read a book review that says something like 'her prose sings' or 'lyrical and lovely writing?' People who write like that don't rely on simple words or don't repeat the same word in sentences too close together. 

Maybe it comes down to your being a word person or a story person. Is one more important than the other to you? If you're all story, you might miss out on writing it in a pleasing way. If you're totally into words and phrases and not the story itself, something will also be missing. A combination of the two will result in some fine writing. 

To use the thesaurus to advantage, you'll need to take time to do so. Make it part of your proofreading and editing process. Ask yourself again and again as you proceed "Is there a better way to say this?" "Is there another word I can use?" 

You can purchase a thesaurus and keep it handy, or you can use one online for free. I've had one for years and keep close to my writing area, but I also use the online versions, too. Find one you like and bookmark it so it's a quick task to look up a word.

As a short writing exercise today, pick a few ordinary words and find synonyms in a thesaurus. You might begin by listing the ones that come to you off the top of your head, Then, check the thesaurus. 

It's simple things like this that will make you a better writer.