Word choice and its effect

Writers choose every word for a reason. Words with similar meanings can create very different pictures and feelings, so explaining the effect of a single word is a key reading skill.

Key facts

  • Connotation: the feelings and ideas a word suggests. ⟦slim⟧ (positive), ⟦thin⟧ (neutral) and ⟦skinny⟧ (negative) all mean not fat.
  • Precise verbs show exactly how something happens: ⟦crept⟧ (slowly, secretly), ⟦stormed⟧ (angrily), ⟦devoured⟧ (hungrily).
  • Know the word class you are writing about: noun, verb, adjective or adverb. ⟦The writer uses the verb "howled" to…⟧
  • Explain the effect: what the word makes the reader see, hear or feel. ⟦The verb "howled" makes the wind sound wild, like an animal.⟧
  • Useful phrases: ⟦suggests⟧, ⟦implies⟧, ⟦emphasises⟧, ⟦creates a sense of⟧, ⟦makes the reader feel⟧.

Worked examples

Example 1

Which word is more positive? ⟦determined⟧ or ⟦stubborn⟧

  1. Both mean not giving up.
  2. ⟦stubborn⟧ suggests it is annoying; ⟦determined⟧ suggests it is admirable.

Answer: ⟦determined⟧

Example 2

What is the effect of ⟦crept⟧? ⟦The cat crept towards the bird.⟧

  1. ⟦crept⟧ is slower and quieter than ⟦walked⟧.
  2. It builds tension: will the bird escape?

Answer: It shows the cat moved slowly and quietly, so the bird would not notice.

Example 3

What word class is ⟦furious⟧? ⟦The furious crowd shouted.⟧

  1. It describes the noun ⟦crowd⟧.
  2. A word that describes a noun is an adjective.

Answer: adjective