English, perhaps like every other language, has many words with identical or similar meanings. They are called synonyms.
Think of the words, approximately and about. As synonyms, you can choose either word in most cases, so my advice is to choose the simpler of the two.
Here is an example paragraph of simple words (in brackets) that could be used instead.
There are numerous (many) words that are synonyms and often you can choose the simple (easy) word over the complex (harder) word. Doing this helps your audience (readers) comprehend (understand) your message.
Here are some lists of synonyms you might like to consider when writing:
HREF 1 (HREF = hyper reference, a link)
HREF 1 is probably more suited to intermediate or advanced English language writers. HREF 2 is easier.
Word of Caution
Caution (care) needs to be used with synonyms because (as) some, although suitable for many sentences aren't suitable for every sentence.
Here's an example from HREF 1 using aroused instead of angered:
"He aroused her." (On its own, this has a sexual* or other** meaning. To write it with the intended meaning you would need to say, 'He aroused her anger'.)
"He angered her." (This would be the preferred expression in this example)
Do you use synonyms when writing? Comment and tell me what you think of using shorter, simpler words to help people understand your writing.
* - "He aroused her (passion)."
** - "He aroused her (from her sleep)."
Comments
Daniel and Expector Smith: Formal writing usually includes more complex words. The level of writing you use should be determined by the people whom you expect to read your work. Best to always aim for short, simple sentences and simple words.
Lady Anne ... thanks for commenting.
This is indeed very useful for us. Thanks a million Robinoz.
I just liked it.
Some people tend to use difficult or harder words in their writing, though. I'm not really against using complex words - what I'm trying to say is, when trying to use a harder word, make sure you know how to use it correctly.
Yes, you got it - I do mean it's not a good idea to use hard words when you're even having trouble making a correct sentence with simple words.
Hello Robinoz! Thanks for this useful post, since , we tend sometimes complicate the understanding of a simple text. We always should simplify our words wherever we write. In the past, I thought the more you filled in a text with difficult word the better was. Now, I notice how important is to simplify our text so that a wide range of peope can be able to understand it. That's it, bye!