{"id":350,"date":"2014-07-25T20:09:58","date_gmt":"2014-07-25T20:09:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/courses.candelalearning.com\/writershandbook\/?post_type=chapter&#038;p=350"},"modified":"2017-01-02T19:58:50","modified_gmt":"2017-01-02T19:58:50","slug":"17-3-choosing-precise-wording","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/chapter\/17-3-choosing-precise-wording\/","title":{"raw":"17.3 Choosing Precise Wording","rendered":"17.3 Choosing Precise Wording"},"content":{"raw":"&nbsp;\r\n<div class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\"><span class=\"im_title-prefix\">17.3<\/span> Choosing Precise Wording<\/h2>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_n01\" class=\"im_learning_objectives im_editable im_block\">\r\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Learning Objectives<\/h3>\r\n<ol id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_l01\" class=\"im_orderedlist\">\r\n \t<li>Understand connotations of words and choose words with connotations that work best for your purposes.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Incorporate specific and concrete words as well as figurative language into your writing.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Recognize and avoid clich\u00e9s and improperly used words.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/div>\r\nBy using precise wording, you can most accurately relay your thoughts. Some strategies that can help you put your thoughts into words include focusing on denotations and connotations, balancing specific and concrete words with occasionally figurative language, and being on guard against clich\u00e9s and misused words.\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s01\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Focusing on Both Denotations and Connotations<\/h2>\r\nConsider that the words \u201claid-back\u201d and \u201clackadaisical\u201d both mean \u201cunhurried and slow-moving.\u201d If someone said you were a \u201claid-back\u201d student, you would likely be just fine with that comment, but if someone said you were a \u201clackadaisical\u201d student, you might not like the <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">connotation<\/span><\/span>. Nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs all have both <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">denotations<\/span><\/span> and connotations. The denotation is the definition of a word. The connotation is the emotional sense of a word. For example, look at these three words:\r\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s01_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li>excited<\/li>\r\n \t<li>agitated<\/li>\r\n \t<li>flustered<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nThe three words all mean to be stirred emotionally. In fact, you might see one of the words as a definition of another one of them. And you would definitely see the three words in a common list in a thesaurus. So the denotations for the three words are about the same. But the connotations are quite different. The word \u201cexcited\u201d often has a positive, fun underlying meaning; \u201cagitated\u201d carries a sense of being upset; and \u201cflustered\u201d suggests a person is somewhat out of control. When you are choosing a word to use, you should first think of a word based on its denotation. Then you should consider if the connotation fits your intent. For more on using a dictionary or thesaurus to enhance and add precision to your word choices, see Section 17.4 \"Using the Dictionary and Thesaurus Effectively.\"\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s02\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Choosing Specific and Concrete Words<\/h2>\r\nYou will always give clearer information if you write with <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">specific words<\/span><\/span> rather than <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">general words<\/span><\/span>. Look at the following example and think about how you could reword it using specific terms. Then check out the following revision to see one possible option.\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s02_n01\" class=\"im_callout im_editable im_block\">\r\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Examples<\/h3>\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Original:<\/strong> The <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">animals<\/strong> got out and ruined the <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">garden produce<\/strong>.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Revision:<\/strong> The <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">horses<\/em> got out and ruined the <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">tomatoes and cucumbers<\/em>.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\nAnother way to make your writing clearer and more interesting is to use <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">concrete words<\/span><\/span> rather than <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">abstract words<\/span><\/span>. Abstract words do not have physical properties. But concrete words evoke senses of taste, smell, hearing, sight, and touch. For example, you could say, \u201cMy shoe feels odd.\u201d This statement does not give a sense of why your shoe feels odd since odd is an abstract word that doesn\u2019t suggest any physical characteristics. Or you could say, \u201cMy shoe feels wet.\u201d This statement gives you a sense of how your shoe feels to the touch. It also gives a sense of how your shoe might look as well as how it might smell. Look at the following example and think about how you could reword it using concrete words. Then check out the following revision to see one possible option.\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s02_n02\" class=\"im_callout im_editable im_block\">\r\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Examples<\/h3>\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Original:<\/strong> The horses <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">got<\/strong> out and <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">ruined<\/strong> the tomatoes and cucumbers.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Revision:<\/strong> The horses <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">stampeded<\/em> out and <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">squished and squirted<\/em> the tomatoes and cucumbers.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\nStudy this table for some additional examples of words that provide clarity to writing.\r\n<div class=\"im_informaltable im_block\">\r\n<table cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\">\r\n<thead>\r\n<tr>\r\n<th>General Words<\/th>\r\n<th>Specific Words<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>children<\/td>\r\n<td>Tess and Abby<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>animals<\/td>\r\n<td>dogs<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>food<\/td>\r\n<td>cheeseburger and a salad<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"im_informaltable im_block\">\r\n<table cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\">\r\n<thead>\r\n<tr>\r\n<th>Abstract Words<\/th>\r\n<th>Concrete Words<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>noise<\/td>\r\n<td>clanging and squealing<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>success<\/td>\r\n<td>a job I like and enough money to live comfortably<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>civility<\/td>\r\n<td>treating others with respect<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s03\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Enhancing Writing with Figurative Language<\/h2>\r\n<span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">Figurative language<\/span><\/span> is a general term that includes writing tools such as <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">alliteration<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">analogies<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">hyperbole<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">idioms<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">metaphors<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">onomatopoeia<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">personification<\/span><\/span>, and <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">similes<\/span><\/span>. By using figurative language, you can make your writing both more interesting and easier to understand.\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s03_n01\" class=\"im_callout im_editable im_block\">\r\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Figurative Language<\/h3>\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Alliteration:<\/strong> Repetition of single letters or sets of letters.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> Gives a poetic, flowing sound to words.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">D<\/em>ana <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">d<\/em>anced <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">d<\/em>own the <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">d<\/em>rive <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">d<\/em>aintily.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Analogy:<\/strong> The comparison of familiar and unfamiliar ideas or items by showing a feature they have in common.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> Makes an unfamiliar idea or item easier to understand.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> Writing a book is <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">like raising a toddler<\/em>. It takes all your time and attention, but you\u2019ll enjoy every minute of it!\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Hyperbole:<\/strong> A greatly exaggerated point.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> Emphasizes the point.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> I must have written <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">a thousand pages<\/em> this weekend.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Idiom:<\/strong> A group of words that carries a meaning other than the actual meanings of the words.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> A colorful way to send a message.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> I think this assignment will be <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">a piece of cake<\/em>.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Metaphor:<\/strong> An overall comparison of two ideas or items by stating that one is the other.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> Adds the connotations of one compared idea to the other compared idea.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> This shirt <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">is a rag<\/em>.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Onomatopoeia:<\/strong> A single word that sounds like the idea it is describing.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> A colorful way to describe an idea while adding a sense of sound.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> The jazz band was known for its <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">wailing<\/em> horns and <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">clattering<\/em> drums.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Personification:<\/strong> Attributing human characteristics to nonhuman things.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> Adds depth such as humor, drama, or interest.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> The <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">spatula told me<\/em> that the grill was just a little too hot today.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Simile:<\/strong> Using the word \u201clike\u201d or \u201cas\u201d to indicate that one item or idea resembles another.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> A colorful way to explain an item or idea.\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> Hanging out with you is <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">like eating watermelon<\/em> on a summer day.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s04\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Using Clich\u00e9s Sparingly<\/h2>\r\n<span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">Clich\u00e9s<\/span><\/span> are phrases that were once original and interesting creations but that became so often used that they have ceased to be interesting and are now viewed as overworked. If you have a tendency to use a clich\u00e9 or see one while you are proofreading, replace it with plain language instead.\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s04_n01\" class=\"im_callout im_editable im_block\">\r\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Example<\/h3>\r\nI\u2019m loose as a goose today.\r\n\r\nReplace clich\u00e9: I\u2019m very relaxed today.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s04_t01\" class=\"im_table im_block\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"im_title-prefix\">Table 17.2<\/span> A Few Common Clich\u00e9s\r\n<table cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>as fresh as a daisy<\/td>\r\n<td>as slow as molasses<\/td>\r\n<td>as white as snow<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>beat around the bush<\/td>\r\n<td>being led down the primrose path<\/td>\r\n<td>big as life<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>bottomless pit<\/td>\r\n<td>busy as a bee<\/td>\r\n<td>can\u2019t see the forest for the trees<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>chip off the old block<\/td>\r\n<td>dead of winter<\/td>\r\n<td>dirt cheap<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>don\u2019t upset the apple cart<\/td>\r\n<td>down to earth<\/td>\r\n<td>flat as a pancake<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>for everything there is a season<\/td>\r\n<td>from feast to famine<\/td>\r\n<td>go with the flow<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>gone to pot<\/td>\r\n<td>green with envy<\/td>\r\n<td>growing like a weed<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>heaven on earth<\/td>\r\n<td>here\u2019s mud in your eye<\/td>\r\n<td>in a nutshell<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>in the doghouse<\/td>\r\n<td>just a drop in the bucket<\/td>\r\n<td>knock on wood<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>light as a feather<\/td>\r\n<td>like a duck out of water<\/td>\r\n<td>made in the shade<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>muddy the water<\/td>\r\n<td>naked as a jaybird<\/td>\r\n<td>nutty as a fruitcake<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>old as dirt<\/td>\r\n<td>our neck of the woods<\/td>\r\n<td>plain as the nose on your face<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>raking in the dough<\/td>\r\n<td>sick as a dog<\/td>\r\n<td>stick in the mud<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>stubborn as a mule<\/td>\r\n<td>sweet as apple pie<\/td>\r\n<td>thorn in my side<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>two peas in a pod<\/td>\r\n<td>under the weather<\/td>\r\n<td>walks on water<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>water under the bridge<\/td>\r\n<td>when pigs fly<\/td>\r\n<td><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s05\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Guarding against Misusing Words<\/h2>\r\nIf you are uncertain about the meaning of a word, look the word up before you use it. Also, if your spellchecker identifies a misspelled word, don\u2019t automatically accept the suggested replacement word. Make an informed decision about each word you use.\r\n\r\nLook at the Figure 17.1.\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s05_f01\" class=\"im_figure im_large im_editable im_block\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"im_title-prefix\">Figure 17.1<\/span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/textimgs.s3.amazonaws.com\/writershandbook\/section_21\/8ebce11c047e0f809f4723cc3a28bc11.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"https:\/\/textimgs.s3.amazonaws.com\/writershandbook\/images\/sm_8ebce11c047e0f809f4723cc3a28bc11.jpg#fixme\" alt=\"\" \/><\/a>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\nEquipment and memories can be photographic, but to look good in pictures is to be photogenic. To catch an error of this nature, you clearly have to realize the word in question is a problem. The truth is, your best chance at knowing how a wide range of words should be used is to read widely and frequently and to pay attention to words as you read.\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s05_n01\" class=\"im_key_takeaways im_editable im_block\">\r\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Key Takeaways<\/h3>\r\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s05_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist\">\r\n \t<li>Words have both denotations and connotations, and you need to focus on both of these meanings when you choose your words.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Specific words, such as \u201cfork\u201d or \u201cspoon\u201d instead of \u201csilverware,\u201d and concrete words, such as a \u201cpiercing siren\u201d instead of a \u201cloud sound,\u201d create more interesting writing.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Figurative language, including alliteration, analogies, hyperbole, idioms metaphors, onomatopoeia, personification, and similes, helps make text more interesting and meaningful.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Both clich\u00e9s and improperly used words detract from your writing. Reword clich\u00e9s using straightforward language. Eliminate improperly used words by researching words about which you are not sure.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s05_n02\" class=\"im_exercises im_editable im_block\">\r\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Exercises<\/h3>\r\n<ol id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s05_l02\" class=\"im_orderedlist\">\r\n \t<li>Fill in the blank in this sentence with a word that carries a connotation suggesting Kelly was still full of energy after her twenty laps:Kelly ____ out of the pool at the end of her twenty laps.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Identify the general word used in this sentence and replace it with a specific word:I put my clothes somewhere and can\u2019t find them.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Identify the abstract word used in this sentence and replace it with a concrete word:I smelled something strong when I opened the refrigerator door.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Identify the clich\u00e9 used in the following sentence and rewrite the sentence using straightforward language:We should be up and running by ten o\u2019clock tomorrow morning.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Identify the misused word in the following sentence and replace it with a correct word:I\u2019d rather walk then have to wait an hour for the bus.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Write a sentence using one of the types of figurative language presented in Section 17.3.3 \"Enhancing Writing with Figurative Language.\"<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Over the course of a week, record any instances of clich\u00e9s or trite, overused expressions you hear in conversations with friends, coworkers, or family; in music, magazines, or newspapers; on television, film, or the Internet; or in your own language. Share your list with members of your group or the class as a whole.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n&nbsp;","rendered":"<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\"><span class=\"im_title-prefix\">17.3<\/span> Choosing Precise Wording<\/h2>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_n01\" class=\"im_learning_objectives im_editable im_block\">\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Learning Objectives<\/h3>\n<ol id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_l01\" class=\"im_orderedlist\">\n<li>Understand connotations of words and choose words with connotations that work best for your purposes.<\/li>\n<li>Incorporate specific and concrete words as well as figurative language into your writing.<\/li>\n<li>Recognize and avoid clich\u00e9s and improperly used words.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<p>By using precise wording, you can most accurately relay your thoughts. Some strategies that can help you put your thoughts into words include focusing on denotations and connotations, balancing specific and concrete words with occasionally figurative language, and being on guard against clich\u00e9s and misused words.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s01\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Focusing on Both Denotations and Connotations<\/h2>\n<p>Consider that the words \u201claid-back\u201d and \u201clackadaisical\u201d both mean \u201cunhurried and slow-moving.\u201d If someone said you were a \u201claid-back\u201d student, you would likely be just fine with that comment, but if someone said you were a \u201clackadaisical\u201d student, you might not like the <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">connotation<\/span><\/span>. Nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs all have both <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">denotations<\/span><\/span> and connotations. The denotation is the definition of a word. The connotation is the emotional sense of a word. For example, look at these three words:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s01_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li>excited<\/li>\n<li>agitated<\/li>\n<li>flustered<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The three words all mean to be stirred emotionally. In fact, you might see one of the words as a definition of another one of them. And you would definitely see the three words in a common list in a thesaurus. So the denotations for the three words are about the same. But the connotations are quite different. The word \u201cexcited\u201d often has a positive, fun underlying meaning; \u201cagitated\u201d carries a sense of being upset; and \u201cflustered\u201d suggests a person is somewhat out of control. When you are choosing a word to use, you should first think of a word based on its denotation. Then you should consider if the connotation fits your intent. For more on using a dictionary or thesaurus to enhance and add precision to your word choices, see Section 17.4 &#8220;Using the Dictionary and Thesaurus Effectively.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s02\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Choosing Specific and Concrete Words<\/h2>\n<p>You will always give clearer information if you write with <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">specific words<\/span><\/span> rather than <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">general words<\/span><\/span>. Look at the following example and think about how you could reword it using specific terms. Then check out the following revision to see one possible option.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s02_n01\" class=\"im_callout im_editable im_block\">\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Examples<\/h3>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Original:<\/strong> The <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">animals<\/strong> got out and ruined the <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">garden produce<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Revision:<\/strong> The <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">horses<\/em> got out and ruined the <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">tomatoes and cucumbers<\/em>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Another way to make your writing clearer and more interesting is to use <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">concrete words<\/span><\/span> rather than <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">abstract words<\/span><\/span>. Abstract words do not have physical properties. But concrete words evoke senses of taste, smell, hearing, sight, and touch. For example, you could say, \u201cMy shoe feels odd.\u201d This statement does not give a sense of why your shoe feels odd since odd is an abstract word that doesn\u2019t suggest any physical characteristics. Or you could say, \u201cMy shoe feels wet.\u201d This statement gives you a sense of how your shoe feels to the touch. It also gives a sense of how your shoe might look as well as how it might smell. Look at the following example and think about how you could reword it using concrete words. Then check out the following revision to see one possible option.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s02_n02\" class=\"im_callout im_editable im_block\">\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Examples<\/h3>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Original:<\/strong> The horses <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">got<\/strong> out and <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">ruined<\/strong> the tomatoes and cucumbers.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Revision:<\/strong> The horses <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">stampeded<\/em> out and <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">squished and squirted<\/em> the tomatoes and cucumbers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Study this table for some additional examples of words that provide clarity to writing.<\/p>\n<div class=\"im_informaltable im_block\">\n<table cellpadding=\"0\" style=\"border-spacing: 0px;\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>General Words<\/th>\n<th>Specific Words<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>children<\/td>\n<td>Tess and Abby<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>animals<\/td>\n<td>dogs<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>food<\/td>\n<td>cheeseburger and a salad<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"im_informaltable im_block\">\n<table cellpadding=\"0\" style=\"border-spacing: 0px;\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Abstract Words<\/th>\n<th>Concrete Words<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>noise<\/td>\n<td>clanging and squealing<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>success<\/td>\n<td>a job I like and enough money to live comfortably<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>civility<\/td>\n<td>treating others with respect<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s03\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Enhancing Writing with Figurative Language<\/h2>\n<p><span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">Figurative language<\/span><\/span> is a general term that includes writing tools such as <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">alliteration<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">analogies<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">hyperbole<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">idioms<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">metaphors<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">onomatopoeia<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">personification<\/span><\/span>, and <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">similes<\/span><\/span>. By using figurative language, you can make your writing both more interesting and easier to understand.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s03_n01\" class=\"im_callout im_editable im_block\">\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Figurative Language<\/h3>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Alliteration:<\/strong> Repetition of single letters or sets of letters.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> Gives a poetic, flowing sound to words.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">D<\/em>ana <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">d<\/em>anced <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">d<\/em>own the <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">d<\/em>rive <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">d<\/em>aintily.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Analogy:<\/strong> The comparison of familiar and unfamiliar ideas or items by showing a feature they have in common.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> Makes an unfamiliar idea or item easier to understand.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> Writing a book is <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">like raising a toddler<\/em>. It takes all your time and attention, but you\u2019ll enjoy every minute of it!<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Hyperbole:<\/strong> A greatly exaggerated point.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> Emphasizes the point.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> I must have written <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">a thousand pages<\/em> this weekend.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Idiom:<\/strong> A group of words that carries a meaning other than the actual meanings of the words.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> A colorful way to send a message.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> I think this assignment will be <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">a piece of cake<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Metaphor:<\/strong> An overall comparison of two ideas or items by stating that one is the other.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> Adds the connotations of one compared idea to the other compared idea.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> This shirt <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">is a rag<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Onomatopoeia:<\/strong> A single word that sounds like the idea it is describing.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> A colorful way to describe an idea while adding a sense of sound.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> The jazz band was known for its <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">wailing<\/em> horns and <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">clattering<\/em> drums.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Personification:<\/strong> Attributing human characteristics to nonhuman things.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> Adds depth such as humor, drama, or interest.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> The <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">spatula told me<\/em> that the grill was just a little too hot today.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Simile:<\/strong> Using the word \u201clike\u201d or \u201cas\u201d to indicate that one item or idea resembles another.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Effect:<\/strong> A colorful way to explain an item or idea.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Example:<\/strong> Hanging out with you is <em class=\"im_emphasis im_bolditalic\">like eating watermelon<\/em> on a summer day.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s04\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Using Clich\u00e9s Sparingly<\/h2>\n<p><span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">Clich\u00e9s<\/span><\/span> are phrases that were once original and interesting creations but that became so often used that they have ceased to be interesting and are now viewed as overworked. If you have a tendency to use a clich\u00e9 or see one while you are proofreading, replace it with plain language instead.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s04_n01\" class=\"im_callout im_editable im_block\">\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Example<\/h3>\n<p>I\u2019m loose as a goose today.<\/p>\n<p>Replace clich\u00e9: I\u2019m very relaxed today.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s04_t01\" class=\"im_table im_block\">\n<p><span class=\"im_title-prefix\">Table 17.2<\/span> A Few Common Clich\u00e9s<\/p>\n<table cellpadding=\"0\" style=\"border-spacing: 0px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>as fresh as a daisy<\/td>\n<td>as slow as molasses<\/td>\n<td>as white as snow<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>beat around the bush<\/td>\n<td>being led down the primrose path<\/td>\n<td>big as life<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>bottomless pit<\/td>\n<td>busy as a bee<\/td>\n<td>can\u2019t see the forest for the trees<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>chip off the old block<\/td>\n<td>dead of winter<\/td>\n<td>dirt cheap<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>don\u2019t upset the apple cart<\/td>\n<td>down to earth<\/td>\n<td>flat as a pancake<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>for everything there is a season<\/td>\n<td>from feast to famine<\/td>\n<td>go with the flow<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>gone to pot<\/td>\n<td>green with envy<\/td>\n<td>growing like a weed<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>heaven on earth<\/td>\n<td>here\u2019s mud in your eye<\/td>\n<td>in a nutshell<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>in the doghouse<\/td>\n<td>just a drop in the bucket<\/td>\n<td>knock on wood<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>light as a feather<\/td>\n<td>like a duck out of water<\/td>\n<td>made in the shade<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>muddy the water<\/td>\n<td>naked as a jaybird<\/td>\n<td>nutty as a fruitcake<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>old as dirt<\/td>\n<td>our neck of the woods<\/td>\n<td>plain as the nose on your face<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>raking in the dough<\/td>\n<td>sick as a dog<\/td>\n<td>stick in the mud<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>stubborn as a mule<\/td>\n<td>sweet as apple pie<\/td>\n<td>thorn in my side<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>two peas in a pod<\/td>\n<td>under the weather<\/td>\n<td>walks on water<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>water under the bridge<\/td>\n<td>when pigs fly<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s05\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Guarding against Misusing Words<\/h2>\n<p>If you are uncertain about the meaning of a word, look the word up before you use it. Also, if your spellchecker identifies a misspelled word, don\u2019t automatically accept the suggested replacement word. Make an informed decision about each word you use.<\/p>\n<p>Look at the Figure 17.1.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s05_f01\" class=\"im_figure im_large im_editable im_block\">\n<p><span class=\"im_title-prefix\">Figure 17.1<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/textimgs.s3.amazonaws.com\/writershandbook\/section_21\/8ebce11c047e0f809f4723cc3a28bc11.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/textimgs.s3.amazonaws.com\/writershandbook\/images\/sm_8ebce11c047e0f809f4723cc3a28bc11.jpg#fixme\" alt=\"\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Equipment and memories can be photographic, but to look good in pictures is to be photogenic. To catch an error of this nature, you clearly have to realize the word in question is a problem. The truth is, your best chance at knowing how a wide range of words should be used is to read widely and frequently and to pay attention to words as you read.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s05_n01\" class=\"im_key_takeaways im_editable im_block\">\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Key Takeaways<\/h3>\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s05_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist\">\n<li>Words have both denotations and connotations, and you need to focus on both of these meanings when you choose your words.<\/li>\n<li>Specific words, such as \u201cfork\u201d or \u201cspoon\u201d instead of \u201csilverware,\u201d and concrete words, such as a \u201cpiercing siren\u201d instead of a \u201cloud sound,\u201d create more interesting writing.<\/li>\n<li>Figurative language, including alliteration, analogies, hyperbole, idioms metaphors, onomatopoeia, personification, and similes, helps make text more interesting and meaningful.<\/li>\n<li>Both clich\u00e9s and improperly used words detract from your writing. Reword clich\u00e9s using straightforward language. Eliminate improperly used words by researching words about which you are not sure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s05_n02\" class=\"im_exercises im_editable im_block\">\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Exercises<\/h3>\n<ol id=\"mccrimmon-ch17_s03_s05_l02\" class=\"im_orderedlist\">\n<li>Fill in the blank in this sentence with a word that carries a connotation suggesting Kelly was still full of energy after her twenty laps:Kelly ____ out of the pool at the end of her twenty laps.<\/li>\n<li>Identify the general word used in this sentence and replace it with a specific word:I put my clothes somewhere and can\u2019t find them.<\/li>\n<li>Identify the abstract word used in this sentence and replace it with a concrete word:I smelled something strong when I opened the refrigerator door.<\/li>\n<li>Identify the clich\u00e9 used in the following sentence and rewrite the sentence using straightforward language:We should be up and running by ten o\u2019clock tomorrow morning.<\/li>\n<li>Identify the misused word in the following sentence and replace it with a correct word:I\u2019d rather walk then have to wait an hour for the bus.<\/li>\n<li>Write a sentence using one of the types of figurative language presented in Section 17.3.3 &#8220;Enhancing Writing with Figurative Language.&#8221;<\/li>\n<li>Over the course of a week, record any instances of clich\u00e9s or trite, overused expressions you hear in conversations with friends, coworkers, or family; in music, magazines, or newspapers; on television, film, or the Internet; or in your own language. Share your list with members of your group or the class as a whole.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t <section class=\"citations-section\" role=\"contentinfo\">\n\t\t\t <h3>Candela Citations<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t <div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t <div id=\"citation-list-350\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t <div class=\"licensing\"><div class=\"license-attribution-dropdown-subheading\">CC licensed content, Shared previously<\/div><ul class=\"citation-list\"><li>Writers Handbook. <strong>Authored by<\/strong>: Anonymous. <strong>Provided by<\/strong>: Anonymous. <strong>Located at<\/strong>: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/2012books.lardbucket.org\/books\/writers-handbook\/\">http:\/\/2012books.lardbucket.org\/books\/writers-handbook\/<\/a>. <strong>License<\/strong>: <em><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"license\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/4.0\/\">CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike<\/a><\/em><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t <\/div>\n\t\t\t <\/section>","protected":false},"author":5,"menu_order":91,"template":"","meta":{"_candela_citation":"[{\"type\":\"cc\",\"description\":\"Writers Handbook\",\"author\":\"Anonymous\",\"organization\":\"Anonymous\",\"url\":\"http:\/\/2012books.lardbucket.org\/books\/writers-handbook\/\",\"project\":\"\",\"license\":\"cc-by-nc-sa\",\"license_terms\":\"\"}]","CANDELA_OUTCOMES_GUID":"","pb_show_title":"on","pb_short_title":"","pb_subtitle":"","pb_authors":[],"pb_section_license":""},"chapter-type":[],"contributor":[],"license":[],"class_list":["post-350","chapter","type-chapter","status-publish","hentry"],"part":421,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/350","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/chapter"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/350\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":798,"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/350\/revisions\/798"}],"part":[{"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/parts\/421"}],"metadata":[{"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/350\/metadata\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=350"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"chapter-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapter-type?post=350"},{"taxonomy":"contributor","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/contributor?post=350"},{"taxonomy":"license","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/license?post=350"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}