Selecting Words

Rule 1 – Accurate Meaning

• Choose words whose meanings precisely match the idea you want to express.
• Avoid words that are only approximately correct — pick the exact word.
• Use common, accepted senses of words unless you deliberately need a rare or specialized meaning.

Rule 2 – Appropriate Tone & Register

• Match your word choice to the audience. Use formal vocabulary for academic writing and simple, clear words for general audiences.
• Avoid slang or overly technical terms unless they’re appropriate for the reader.

Rule 3 – Conciseness

• Prefer concise, strong words over long, weak phrases.
• Avoid redundancy and unnecessary modifiers that dilute meaning.

Rule 4 – Precision and Specificity

• Use specific nouns and verbs instead of vague or general ones (e.g., "whisper" instead of "speak softly").
• Concrete words often convey ideas more clearly than abstract ones.

Rule 5 – Avoiding Clichés and Overused Words

• Fresh and original word choice improves readability — avoid tired or hackneyed expressions.

Principles of Selecting Words

1. Choose words the reader will understand.
2. Prefer specific, precise words to vague ones.
3. Use strong verbs and concrete nouns.
4. Emphasize positive, clear language.
5. Avoid overused and obsolete words.

Examples — Practice Questions

Pick the most effective word to fill the blank and make the sentence correct and natural.

Question 1:

I saw a _______ of sheep in the field.

a. Herd

b. Group

c. Swarm

d. Flock

Correct answer – d. Flock

Explanation: A group of sheep is commonly called a flock. "Herd" is used for cattle; "swarm" is used for insects; "group" is generic but less precise.

Question 2:

The grapes are now ______ enough to be picked.

a. Ready

b. Mature

c. Ripe

d. Advanced

Correct answer – c. Ripe

Explanation: For fruit, the correct collocation is "ripe" (ready to eat or pick). "Mature" is possible but more formal/technical; "ready" is vague; "advanced" is incorrect here.