So, if you’re ready to be inundated by information, grab a cup of coffee or tea, settle in, and let’s learn some shizz.
Definition of Big Words: Things not easily understood by the majority of the population without some context clues for identification as to the meaning of the word. Words which need to be researched for understanding.
Big words are considered any singular word or multi-word phrase a common reader can’t comprehend without a dictionary or internet search. Used too often, they can turn a reader off the book or article you’ve written. Of course, there’s a time and place for everything, as you know.
When should you use big words?
When you can spare the word count to define them, you’re good, and when you’re 99% sure people will understand your meaning, a well-placed big word can enhance the narrative. For example: Gargantuan is a big word, and my pun is totally intended. Most people know what it means. Those who don’t can figure it out if you’ve used excellent context clues to help with definition.
She took a gargantuan bite of the sandwich, her mouth stretching like a python’s around the two slices of bread with all the meat and cheese I could fathom between them. How she managed to chew without choking, I’ll never know.
You get it. It’s a BIG bite. Gigantic. Ginormous. Huge. Gargantuan.
See? You got several words to relate to the one you may not have known the definition of. That’s context. Of course, the majority of people already know what the word means, so the context isn’t as needed, but it’s still helpful.
How should you use big words?
To enhance the narrative. Period. If there’s a simpler way to say something, say it that way.
When should you avoid big words like the plague?
If you’re writing for a young-adult audience, for children, or for the news (which is mass consumed), just say no. Unless you’re really, really good at context definitions, you want to use big words sparingly in these publications.
Why is this a thing which makes me nuts?
Because I read a ton. If I don’t know what a word means, there’s an excellent chance the common reader won’t know it either. We don’t need to be slapped in the face with your presumed intelligence or your overinflated ego because you believe you’re the wordsmith of legend. We simply find you arrogant and repulsive because you can’t pull your head out of your ass long enough to be on our level. If you’re writing for “smart” people, you’re not going to sell that many books; I don’t care how riveting your prose may be. As I said, it’s tiring AF to look up every third word. Yuck. DNF every time.
What books have you read that left you with the nasty aftertaste of dictionary? Did you finish?
Well, that’s all for today, folks!
Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
