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Vocabulary and Language Use
Quick questions on Choosing the right word: N(A)-Level English
3short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What is many words are close but not identical?Show answer
English is full of words that overlap. "Big", "large", "huge" and "enormous" all describe size, but they are not interchangeable: "enormous" is far stronger than "big". A good writer feels these differences and picks the word that says exactly the right amount. The skill is to stop reaching for the first word that comes to mind and ask whether a closer one fits better.
What is tell synonyms apart by their feeling?Show answer
Synonyms share a basic meaning but carry different feelings. "Slim", "thin" and "skinny" all mean narrow, but "slim" is a compliment, "thin" is neutral, and "skinny" can sound unkind. "Childish" and "childlike" both relate to children, yet one is an insult and one is gentle. Before you choose, ask whether the word feels positive, neutral or negative, and match it to your purpose.
What is do not strain for a fancy word?Show answer
Choosing the right word is not the same as choosing the grandest word. A precise everyday word beats a showy word that does not quite fit. If you are unsure a big word is exactly right, use the simpler word you are sure of. Accuracy always comes before show.
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