Word choice and tone
Choosing the right word, not just a nearly right one, makes writing precise, vivid, and appropriate for its audience.
Diction
Diction is word choice. Precise diction uses words that say exactly what you mean: 'The company cut 200 jobs' is clearer than 'The company made some changes to staffing'. Mark Twain reportedly said the difference between the right word and the almost right word is like the difference between lightning and a lightning bug.
Denotation and connotation
Denotation is a word's literal meaning; connotation is the feelings and associations it carries. 'Thrifty', 'frugal', and 'stingy' share a denotation but differ in connotation. Writers choose words for both meanings, and readers should notice when connotation is shaping their reaction.
Concrete and abstract language
Abstract words name ideas (justice, freedom, inequality); concrete words name things you can see, touch, or measure (a locked gate, a 40-minute bus ride, a 900-dollar rent increase). Strong writing grounds abstractions in concrete details and examples.
Jargon
Jargon is specialised vocabulary of a field. Among experts it can be precise and efficient; for general readers it can exclude and confuse. Define technical terms when you first use them, or replace them with plain words when writing for a broad audience.
Clichés
Clichés are overused expressions such as 'at the end of the day', 'think outside the box', or 'avoid like the plague'. Once vivid, they now sound tired and can signal lazy thinking. Replace them with precise, fresh language.
Inclusive language
Inclusive language avoids excluding or stereotyping people. Many style guides recommend gender-neutral terms ('chair' or 'chairperson', 'firefighter'), the singular 'they' when gender is unknown or for people who use it, and person-first or identity-first language according to a community's preferences. APA 7th edition endorses the singular 'they'.
Formality and tone
Academic writing is usually formal but need not be stiff. Avoid slang, texting abbreviations, and contractions in very formal writing, though many style guides now accept some contractions. Tone should fit the audience: confident but not arrogant, critical but fair.
Worked example
Abstract: 'The housing situation in the city has many negative effects on residents.' Concrete: 'In the city, average rent has risen 40% in five years, and a nurse earning the median salary now spends more than half her pay on a one-bedroom flat.' The concrete version shows the problem rather than gesturing at it.
Key takeaways
Precise diction says exactly what you mean. Denotation is literal meaning; connotation is association. Ground abstract ideas in concrete details. Define or avoid jargon for general audiences. Replace clichés with fresh language. Inclusive language avoids exclusion and stereotypes. Match formality and tone to the audience.
Flashcard
Word choice
Check your understanding
'Frugal' and 'stingy' have similar denotations. How do they differ?