20 Word Choices

Word Choice

Our style is about the words we chose to represent our thoughts.  Be clear on what your style is and choose your words to match.

However, there are some word choice cautions.

Avoid any language that is or may be discriminatory or otherwise minimize another person or persons.

Avoid using pretentious words that make your meaning unclear.  Bigger is not always better.  For example, “When there is moisture in the atmosphere, I employ the water removing device of my vehicle.”  Turning on the windshield wipers when it rains would be simpler, clearer, and more concise.

Words that reflect bias should also be avoided.  In particular, professions that may have been identified by the role and “man” are no longer acceptable.  For example,  mailman is replaced by mail carrier.

Homonyms, Homophones, Homographs

Homonyms is the general terms used for homophones and homographs (

Homophones are words that sound alike but are usually spelled differently and mean different things such as bear (the animal) and bare (unclothed).  Other common homophones are to, two, and too; there, their, and they’re.

Homographs are words that are spelled the same but mean different things based on the context such as a bow (in your hair) and to take a bow (bend at the waist).

Spellcheck is a good first review, but you should double check those words you know trip you up.  Paste a “to check” list in the front of your dictionary if necessary.

It is your job to make sure the words you choose match the words you mean.

For more information, please check out Miriam and Webster’s article on Homophones, Homographs, and Homonyms.