big words and their meanings for essays

127 big fancy words to sound smart and boost your eloquence

Karolina Assi

Everyone wants to sound smart and come across as someone that can express their thoughts eloquently. And even though you might have this fantastic ability in your native language, you may feel limited doing this in English if you’re beginning your journey in expanding your vocabulary with unusual or rarer words.

Fortunately, the English language has thousands of big words that will make you sound instantly more eloquent and knowledgeable.

These words will help you express yourself in a more elegant way by substituting the basic, everyday words with their more fancy synonyms. Learning those “big” words in English is also a great way to impress those around you - whether it’s at school, at work, or during your next date.

To help you take your English vocabulary to the next level, we’re prepared a list of 120+ big words to sound smart, with their meaning and an example of how to use them in context.

The do’s and don'ts of using big words in English

Throwing in a few fancy words into your conversations or monologue is a good idea to sound more eloquent and impress everyone around you.

It’s also a great way to sound smart when you don’t know what to say on a specific topic but want to make a good impression and appear more knowledgeable than you are (like this English student during his literature class ).

But there’s a fine line between using fancy words that truly make you sound eloquent and those that make you sound like you’re trying too hard.

Sometimes, using big words to sound smart may backfire, especially if you don’t really know what they mean. Then, you may end up saying something that makes no sense and leaving everyone in the room perplexed. Plus, using complex words you don’t understand can make you sound pompous - so tread the line between careful and carefree.

Use them only if you truly understand their meaning and know what context to use them in. But don’t use them mindlessly as it will result in an opposite effect to what you intended.

Aside from learning those fancy words and their meaning, another challenge lies in their pronunciation. If you choose those big words that are also hard to pronounce , like “epitome” or “niche,” you might end up saying something that makes everyone laugh (it wouldn’t be such a bad scenario!).

The point is: if you’re going to use fancy words to sound smart, learn their meaning, understand how to use them in context, and practice their pronunciation first.

Big words to sound smart and their meaning

The smartest way of sounding more eloquent when expressing yourself in English is to change basic, everyday words for their fancier versions. For instance, instead of saying “very big,” say “massive.” Instead of saying “detailed.” say “granular,” and instead of saying “not interesting,” say “banal.”

See? Using the word “granular” in a sentence will inevitably add more elegance to your speech and make you appear more fluent and eloquent.

The words we’ve chosen to include in the tables below follow this exact principle. Most of them are just a fancier version of a basic, simple word you’d normally use. Others are words used in a professional or academic setting that simply add more articulacy to your statement.

Fancy words you can use at work

The question isn’t whether you should learn a couple of fancy words you can use at work to impress your boss and coworkers. The question is, how do you use them without coming across as a pompous know-it-all, irritating everyone around you?

Well, it’s all about using them wisely. Don’t cram 10 fancy words into a simple sentence just to sound smarter. Only use them when they help you get your message across. If they don’t bring any value to your sentence, simply don’t use them.

In other words - don’t force it! Be natural.

With that said, here are some big words you can use at work.

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Clever words you might use academically

The academic setting does not only encourage you to sound smart. It forces you to. To get higher grades and convince your professors of your knowledge and eloquence, you need to elevate your vocabulary.

Whether it’s in written or spoken assignments, these words will help you express yourself in a more intelligent and elegant way while impressing your colleagues and professors.

Big interesting words you might use socially

Being the smartest person among your friends is surely a great boost for your ego. It can help you gain their approval, receive compliments, and maybe even get a date or two while hanging out at the bar with your friends.

But the other side of the coin is that using overly sophisticated words in a casual, social setting can make you appear pretentious and out of place. That’s why you need to be careful and not overdo it! If you do, you might only end up humiliating yourself, and that’s a terrible place to be in.

Here are 20+ big words in English you can use in social situations with their meaning and an example of a sentence you could say.

Impressive words you might use romantically

Even if you’re not a very romantic person, some occasions require a bit of romanticism. Using elegant words in your expressions of love and affection can make your romantic conversations and gestures more special and memorable.

Still, don’t use big words if you don’t mean them! You should always be sincere and genuine in your expressions. Remember that words hold tremendous power in inspiring emotions in those who receive them.

With that said, here are 30 big words you can use in a romantic setting to express your love and affection for your significant other or to take your relationship with the person you’re currently dating to the next level (congrats!).

Sophisticated words you might use when discussing art and literature

Are you an art or literature? These two areas often require eloquent vocabulary to describe them. At least, that is the sort of language that people expect to hear from someone who’s an avid reader and art connoisseur.

You might want to express how the allegory in that poem made you feel or the way the plot of the book has enthralled you to keep reading but lack the right words to do it. If so, here’s a list of 20+ words you can use to talk about art and literature in different contexts.

Fancy words you might use when talking about your hobbies

When talking about our hobbies, we want to come across as more knowledgeable than others. After all, they’re our special interests, and we naturally possess a greater deal of expertise in these areas.

Whether you’re into literature, movies, or sports, here are some fancy words you can use to describe your interests.

Make the Thesaurus your new best friend

In this article, we’ve only covered 126 big words. Understandably, we can’t include all the fancy words you might need in one article. There are simply too many!

But luckily, there’s a free online tool you can use to find the synonyms of everyday words to expand your vocabulary and make yourself sound smarter.

Can you take a guess?

That’s right - it’s the online Thesaurus . You’ve surely heard about it from your English teacher, but in case you haven’t, Thesaurus is a dictionary of synonyms and related concepts. It’s a great way to find synonyms of different words to spice up your oral or written statements and avoid repeating the same old boring words time and time again.

Choose your words wisely

Whether you’re using simple, everyday words in casual conversations or those big, fancy words in a professional or academic environment, remember one thing: words have power.

They’re spells that you cast (there’s a reason why it’s called “spelling”) onto yourself and those who you speak them to. The words you speak inspire emotions and shape how other people perceive you. But they also influence your own emotions and shape how you perceive yourself.

So choose them wisely.

Learn more about the fascinating English language on our English language blog here.

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70+ Big Words That Will Make You Feel Smart

The biggest word in the English language is 189,819 letters long, and takes three hours to pronounce! More commonly used big words are several syllables long, and often make people feel smart when they say them out loud. Somewhat ironically, however, study after study has shown that using big words usually makes people sound dumb.

There is a time and a place for big words. If you’re a writer, you might want to be careful about how often you invoke long words that no one has ever heard of before. Mark Twain has a few good quotes about why writers should be economical and precise:

“Don’t use a five-dollar word when a fifty-cent word will do.”

“the difference between the almost right word and the right word is really a large matter – it’s the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning.”.

With that said, below is a list of some of the biggest words in the English language, which you can choose to ignore, or insert into your writing and vocabulary. Remember, sometimes, a big word works better. Try to insert a new word into your vocabulary every day until you’re able to use them naturally, without thinking about it. Here are some big words that you can use to sound smart around your family and friends, along with their meaning so you use them in the correct way:

Big Words (A)

1. Abstentious

Self-restraining; also the longest word in the English language to use all five vowels in order once

2. Accoutrements

trappings, esp. related to apparel

3. Acumen — ability, skill

4. Anachronistic — a story that didn’t actually happen

5. Anagnorisis — the moment in a story when the main character realizes something that leads to a resolution

6. Anomalist — difficult to classify

8. Apropos — appropriate

9. Arid — dry

10. Assiduous — painstaking; taking great care through hard work

11. Auspicious — signaling a positive future

Big Words (B-C)

12. Behoove — something that is a personal duty

13. Bellwether — the first sheep in a flock, wearing a bell around its neck

14. C allipygian — having large, round, succulent buttocks

15. Circumlocution —the act of using too many words

16. Consanguineous — of the same blood or same ancestor

17. Conviviality — friendliness

18. Coruscant — sparkling

19. Cuddlesome — cuddly

20. Cupidity — greed

21. Cwtch — from the Welsh word for “hiding place”; the longest word in English to be entirely composed of consonants

22. Cynosure — center of attention

Big Words (D)

23. Deleterious — harmful

24. Desideratum — something needed or wanted

Big Words (E)

26. Enervating — exhausting

27. Equanimity — level-headedness

28. Euouae — a medieval musical term; the longest word in a major dictionary entirely composed of vowels

29. Excogitate — to plan

Big Words (F)

31. Florid — red and inflamed

32. Fortuitous — lucky

33 . Frugal — cheap, thrifty

Big Words (G-M)

34. Gasconading — bragging

35. Grandiloquent — verbally pompous

36. Hackneyed — clichéd

37. Honorificabilitudinitatibus — an extremely long-winded way to say “honorable”; at 27 letters, the longest word in the work of William Shakespeare; also the longest word in the English language featuring alternating consonants and vowels

38. Idiosyncratic — peculiar

39. Indubitably — without a doubt

40. Ivoriate — to cover in ivory

41. Lopadotemachoselachogaleokranioleipsanodrimhypo…pterygon  — (ellipsis used because the word is 182 letters long) an elaborate fricassee; coined word that appeared in the play Assemblywomen by Aristophanes

42. Methionylthreonylthreonylglutaminylalanyl…isoleucine … the chemical name for titin, the largest known protein; ellipsis used because at 189,819 letters, it’s the largest known word and takes over three hours to pronounce

43. Milieu — environment

Big Words (N-P)

44. Nidificate — to build a nest

45. Nonchalant — carefree and unbothered

46. Osculator — one who loves or is loved

47. Paradigm — model

48. Parastratiosphecomyiastratiosphecomyiodes — a species of fly native to Thailand

49. Parsimonious — cheap

50. Penultimate — second to last

51. Perfidious — treacherous

52. Perspicacious — perceptive

54. Proficuous — profitable

55. Predilection — preference

56. Pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism — an inherited thyroid disorder

57. Psychotomimetic – inducing psychotic alteration of behavior and personality

Big Words (Q-Z)

58. Querulous — fussy

59 Rancorous — bitter and argumentative

60. Remunerative — lucrative

61. Rotavator — a soil tiller; at 9 letters, the longest palindromic word in the English language (i.e., it’s spelled the same way backwards)

62. Saxicolous — something that lives on rocks

63. Sesquipedalian — involving long words, just like this article

64. Splendiferous — wonderful

65. Squirrelled — put away; the longest one-syllable word in the English language

67. Supercilious — when a person is arrogant

68. Synergy — extra energy generated by cooperation

69. Unencumbered — free

70. Unparagoned — without equal

Jerome London

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100+ Big Words To Enhance Your Vocabulary

Last Updated on February 22, 2024

Table of Contents

It’s true. Good vocabulary plays a huge role in polishing not only writing skills but speech quality as well. It makes you stand out in the crowd. Period! A couple of fancy words mouthed by an individual would leave a lasting impression, and one would automatically consider them to be smart!

Your speech and appearance are two factors that influence your personality. Why not add some grace to the former by learning a few words that would send out a strong signal? You need not be an avid reader or bookworm, just stay with us and we’ll get you to it.

We have the perfect list of vocabulary words that would make you look smart and sound appealing! For words that are too complex to understand will be used in sentences so that you can apprehend the meaning easily.

P.s: These words are exclusively hand-picked for you. I bet you won’t find a list as imposing as this!

104 Simple Words with Complex Meanings

Lean and haggard because of hunger or age.

Severe self-discipline. One who avoids self-indulgence.

Deserving blame.

A detective or investigator.

To make a whistling or ruffling sound, such as that of the leaves in wind.

Foreordained

To appoint something beforehand. For example, success can not be foreordained.

To criticize unfairly.

Of relating to practical affairs. Or one who is boring and dull. For example, returning to a mundane work routine is hard after a weekend.

Existing from the beginning of time. Or basic/fundamental needs.

Massive respect for something or someone.

Omniscience

The state of knowing everything. For example, God is omniscient.

Omnipresent

Being present everywhere at the same time. 

Moving in a turbulent or non-orderly manner. For example, the weltering group of cows.

Things that are formed by gradual growth or increase. For example, the accretion of cultures or financial assets.

To omit from speech. Or merge together. For example, eliding the scenes of a play. 

Denying any responsibility or knowledge of something. For example, disavowal of earlier statements in court. 

A practical and sensible approach rather than a theoretical one. For example, making pragmatic decisions about life.

Expressing opinions so strongly that they look like facts. For example, being dogmatically rigid in matters of choices.

Associated with massive respect. For example, a venerable teacher.

Making a harsh or loud noise.

Consecration

Declaring something sacred.

Aristocratic

Of belonging to an elite or supreme society/family.

Unusually thin or weak.

Reverberate

Having continuous or dire effects. Or the echoing of a voice. 

Being indifferent to pain or pleasure.

To support or strengthen.

Something of doubtful authenticity being circulated as the truth. For example, his apocryphal lies about me have shunned my confidence. 

Non-offensive and unharmful. For example, an innocuous remark.

Something that has the potential to attract envy or desire. For example, a job with a handsome salary would be enviable.

Pointless. For example, a futile effort .

Walking slowly with heavy steps. For example, trudging with exhaustion.

In a careful manner. For example, walking gingerly so that no one in the house wakes up.

Blasphemous or obscene language.

A strong or passionate feeling.

To reprimand severely. 

To ignore the complexity of an issue. To look at something only superficially. For example, a facile observation of his bruises leads to ambiguity in the investigation.

The primary part of a building facing a street/road. Or an outward appearance that is deliberately false (to give a wrong impression). For example, don’t fall for his smile for it is only a facade to mask his pain.

To sharpen something (such as a spear) or to perfect a skill. For example, she honed her skills to earn the title of the best graphic designer in her firm.

A strong liking or admiration for something. For example, she has a penchant for everything pink.

A sudden change of mood. For example, I fear hanging out with her because of her capricious personality.

Something terrible. Or something that causes moral revulsion. For example, the abominable acts of the corrupt government made the poor suffer.

Impertinence

Lack of respect or rudeness. For example, his inability to converse with other people was perceived as an impertinence. 

Range of experience or thought. For example, 

Risking someone else’s money. For example, he’s wagered all his father’s pension money on gambling and casinos.

Accepting something after initially declining it. For example, after catching his son red-handed he couldn’t help but concede the rumors.

Charming someone in a deceptive manner. For example, she is easily beguiled by looks and money.

Having a red complexion.

Looking after oneself without any help from others. For example, after the death of her parents, she had to fend for bread and butter.

Puzzled or confused.

The action of sending someone to prison or a psychiatric institution.

A person or thing that stands guard or watches. For example, the policeman sentinelled all the suspects until their bail was granted.

Resting or sitting on something high and narrow. For example, perching on the arms of a chair.

A loud roar.

To hit someone hard or to deal with someone harshly. For example, next time he misbehaves with me I’ll clobber him.

Taking a long step.

Favorable or something that indicates success. For example, a propitious consensus was reached once the meeting ended.

Developing a behavior or ability before age. For example, her reading habit lent her a precocious writing talent.

A young individual with exceptional talent. For example, she emerged as a child prodigy with those outstanding mathematical skills.

Capitulation

Ceasing to resist a demand or opponent. The act of surrendering. For example, the opposition had to capitulate to the demands of the government.

An agreement between two groups. For example: after a vicious battle, the two teams finally decided to reach a concord. 

Hesitant or doubtful. For example, I was dubious about purchasing such a shady property.

Unpleasant in taste or smell. For example, the acrid smoke from the chimney made me nauseous.

Rhythm or modulation of the voice. For example, she spoke with cadence and confidence at the international conference. 

Unfriendly and rude. For example, her surly behavior is the reason why she doesn’t have any friends.

Constantly moving from one place to another. For example, the roving life of a nomad.

Subliminally

Below the threshold of conscious perception. For example, commercials these days send out subliminal messages that manipulate the viewer.

Disagreeing or denying formally in a debate. For example, his accusations were met with a firm rebuttal.

To have a share in something.

Stupid or foolish.

An individual who attacks or criticizes personal beliefs and religion.

A loud and harsh sound. 

Someone who proposes or advocates something. For example, he was a strong proponent of legal trade policies.

Indulging or plunged. For example, his memories wallowed him.

Forbidden. For example, smoking was strictly illicit in the common room.

To get something. For example, eliciting a reaction.

Sulky or rude. For example, his petulant behavior offended me.

A travel log or a planned journey. 

A figurative or metaphorical use of an expression. 

To carry out something carelessly. For example, a botched surgery due to lack of experience of the clinician.

To discard.

An excessively proper manner.

Advantageous. For example, the recruiters were only going to hire expedient individuals.

Showing interest or concern. For example, teachers are always solicitous about their students.

A lengthy and aggressive speech.

Congenially

Pleasing or likable attributes because they are similar to one’s own. For example: due to his congenial personality, he has a large social circle.

A short and abrupt reply. For example, the cashier was brusque with the customers.

Prestige. Or a distinguishing mark. For example, this high-end cosmetic company has a cachet that attracts a lot of customers.

Relentlessly severe, stern, or gloomy. 

Mysterious.

Conciliation

Stopping someone from being angry. For example, they both were furious so someone had to conciliate. 

Deliberately created rather than arising naturally or with the flow. For example, the contrived ending of this movie made me dislike it entirely.

To have an unpleasant feeling or effect. For example, his loud munching jarred on my ears. 

Critical and full of rebuke. For example, the headmistress chided us for wearing dirty uniforms.

Ask Away: The FAQ Section

What are some good vocabulary words?

• Philandering
• Preemptively
• Vituperation
• Anachronism
• Exasperation

Which vocabulary word goes with similar?

• Comparable 

What are the four types of vocabulary?

Listening, speaking, reading, and writing are the four types of vocabulary.

Posted by: Igor Ovsyannnykov

Igor is an SEO specialist, designer, photographer, writer and music producer. He believes that knowledge can change the world and be used to inspire and empower young people to build the life of their dreams. When he is not writing in his favorite coffee shop, Igor spends most of his time reading books, taking photos, producing house music, and learning about cinematography. He is a sucker for good coffee, Indian food, and video games.

Big Words Unlocked: Unleash the Potential of Your Vocabulary

By: Author ESLBUZZ

Posted on Last updated: September 5, 2023

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Hello and welcome! In this article, we’ll explore big words, or words that are complex in the English language, breaking them down into their individual parts and providing definitions and examples to help you understand them better.

Learning big words can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. By breaking down these words into their component parts, you can start to see patterns and understand how they fit together. Plus, having a strong vocabulary can help you communicate more effectively, whether you’re speaking, writing, or reading in English.

Big Words – Image 

Understanding Big Words

Importance of big words.

Big words can add depth and complexity to your writing, making it more interesting and engaging for your audience. They can also help you convey your ideas more precisely and accurately. For example, instead of saying “good,” you could use words like “excellent,” “superb,” or “outstanding” to give your writing more impact.

Moreover, using big words can demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in a particular subject. It can also help you stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression on your readers.

When to Use Big Words

While big words can be effective in certain contexts, it is important to use them appropriately. Here are some tips on when to use big words in your writing:

• Use big words sparingly. Too many big words can make your writing difficult to understand and alienate your readers.
• Use big words when the context calls for it. For example, if you are writing a research paper, using technical terms can enhance the credibility of your work.
• Use big words when you want to emphasize a point or add nuance to your writing. For instance, instead of saying “important,” you could use words like “crucial,” “vital,” or “paramount” to convey the significance of a particular idea.

Here are some examples of big words and their meanings:

Types of Big Words

Academic big words.

Academic big words are often used in scholarly writing, research papers, and academic journals. They are typically complex and technical words that are specific to a particular field of study. Here are some examples of academic big words:

Business Big Words

Business big words are often used in the corporate world and are essential for effective communication in the business environment. They are typically jargon words that are specific to a particular industry or business. Here are some examples of business big words:

Literary Big Words

Literary big words are often used in literature and creative writing. They are typically complex and descriptive words that are used to create vivid imagery and evoke emotions in the reader. Here are some examples of literary big words:

Learning Big Words

Reading habits.

Reading is a great way to improve your vocabulary. Make a habit of reading English-language books, newspapers, and articles. Look up any words you don’t know and try to use them in your own writing and speaking.

Here are some books that are great for expanding your vocabulary:

Vocabulary Building Exercises

There are many exercises you can do to build your vocabulary. Here are a few to get you started:

Word Associations

Choose a word and write down as many words as you can think of that are related to it. For example, if the word is “happy,” you might write down “joyful,” “content,” “pleased,” and so on.

Synonym Practice

Choose a word and write down as many synonyms as you can think of. For example, if the word is “big,” you might write down “large,” “huge,” “enormous,” and so on.

Antonym Practice

Choose a word and write down as many antonyms as you can think of. For example, if the word is “hot,” you might write down “cold,” “cool,” “chilly,” and so on.

Prefixes and Suffixes

Learn common prefixes and suffixes to help you understand the meanings of new words. Here are a few examples:

Make a list of words you want to learn and their meanings. Here are some examples:

Using Big Words in Writing

Enhancing your writing style.

Using big words can make your writing more sophisticated and professional. It can help you to convey your ideas more effectively and impress your readers. Here are some tips to enhance your writing style using big words:

• Use big words that you are familiar with and understand their meaning. Do not use words that you do not know the meaning of or use them incorrectly.
• Use big words that are appropriate for your audience and the context of your writing. Do not use words that are too technical or academic if your audience is not familiar with them.
• Use big words to replace common words that are overused and lack impact. For example, instead of using the word “good,” you can use “excellent” or “superb.”
• Use big words to add variety to your writing. Do not use the same words repeatedly. Instead, use synonyms or antonyms to create a more diverse vocabulary.

Here are some examples of big words that you can use to enhance your writing style:

Avoiding Overuse of Big Words

While using big words can enhance your writing style, overuse can make your writing confusing and pretentious. Here are some tips to avoid overuse of big words:

• Use big words sparingly. Do not use them in every sentence or paragraph.
• Use big words only when necessary. Do not use them just to show off your vocabulary.
• Use big words that are commonly used and understood. Do not use obscure words that your readers may not know.
• Use big words in context. Do not use them out of context or incorrectly.

Here are some examples of big words that you should avoid overusing:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered a “big word”?

A big word is typically a word with more than three syllables or a word that is not commonly used in everyday conversation.

Why do people use big words?

People may use big words to appear intelligent, to impress others, or to communicate complex ideas more precisely.

Is it necessary to use big words to sound intelligent?

No, it is not necessary to use big words to sound intelligent. Using clear and concise language to communicate ideas effectively can be just as impressive.

Are big words always better than simple words?

No, big words are not always better than simple words. Using simple words can often be more effective in communication, especially when trying to reach a wider audience.

How can I improve my vocabulary and use of big words?

Reading widely, using a dictionary or thesaurus, and practicing writing and speaking can all help improve vocabulary and use of big words.

Is it okay to use big words if my audience may not understand them?

It is generally better to use language that is appropriate for your audience and that they will understand. Using big words that may be unfamiliar to your audience can lead to confusion and misunderstandings.

There are many online tools that can help you improve your vocabulary. Some of the most popular ones include Vocabulary.com, Memrise, and Quizlet. These websites offer a wide range of exercises and games that can help you learn new words and improve your vocabulary skills.

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Where can I find a free website to improve my vocabulary?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

There are many free websites that can help you improve your vocabulary. Some of the most popular ones include Vocabulary.com, Merriam-Webster, and Dictionary.com. These websites offer a wide range of exercises and games that can help you learn new words and improve your vocabulary skills.

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are some advanced vocabulary words that I can learn?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

Some advanced vocabulary words that you can learn include:

• Ephemeral: lasting for a very short time
• Obfuscate: to make something unclear or difficult to understand
• Perspicacious: having a ready insight into and understanding of things
• Quixotic: exceedingly idealistic; unrealistic and impractical
• Ubiquitous: present, appearing, or found everywhere

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are some common vocabulary words that are frequently used in writing?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

Some common vocabulary words that are frequently used in writing include:

• Ambivalent: having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone
• Conundrum: a confusing and difficult problem or question
• Dichotomy: a division or contrast between two things that are or are represented as being opposed or entirely different
• Euphemism: a mild or indirect word or expression used in place of one considered to be too harsh or blunt
• Paradox: a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated or explained may prove to be well founded or true

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Are there any vocabulary apps that can help me learn new words?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

Yes, there are many vocabulary apps that can help you learn new words. Some of the most popular ones include Duolingo, Memrise, and Quizlet. These apps offer a wide range of exercises and games that can help you learn new words and improve your vocabulary skills.

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Which websites are best for high school students to improve their vocabulary?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

Some of the best websites for high school students to improve their vocabulary include Vocabulary.com, Merriam-Webster, and Quizlet. These websites offer a wide range of exercises and games that can help students learn new words and improve their vocabulary skills. Additionally, many of these websites offer resources specifically designed for high school students, such as SAT vocabulary lists and quizzes.

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115 Advanced English Words (Advanced Vocabulary List)

Below, you’ll find a list of 115 advanced words in English. I included examples so you can see the words in action.

Learning vocabulary is my hobby. It’s amazing how many meanings the word has, where it comes from, and what it represents in a cultural context . The more words you know, the more things and experiences you can name, which helps a lot if you want to become a writer.

“I have hated words and I have loved them, and I hope I have made them right.”― Markus Zusak

115 Advanced Words in English

I suggest you read them out loud and try to create your examples – this will dramatically increase retention and chances that you’ll use the word in conversation.

1. Construe (verb)

a) interpret (a word or action) in a particular way.

Example: From her arguments, I construe she wants to turn the world into a place of chaos.

2. Peruse (verb)

a) read (something), typically thoroughly or carefully. b) examine carefully or at length.

Example: He carefully perused the dusty bookshelves of the forgotten library.

3. Condone (verb)

a) accept (behavior that is considered morally wrong or offensive). b) approve or sanction (something), especially with reluctance.

Example: For the last time, she condoned their egregious mistake.

4. Latent (adjective)

(of a quality or state) existing but not yet developed or manifest; hidden or concealed.

Example: There was a latent threat in his words.

5. Acrimonious (adjective)

(typically of speech or discussion) angry and bitter.

Example: She rejected his offer with an acrimonious sneer.

6. Indubitable (adjective)

impossible to doubt; unquestionable.

Example: His version of the account was indubitable.

7. Propitious (adjective)

giving or indicating a good chance of success; favorable.

Example: He received a propitious message.

8. Tremulous (adjective)

a) shaking or quivering slightly b) timid; nervous.

Example: She was tremulous with fear.

9. Masquerade (noun/verb)

a) noun – a false show or pretense. b) verb – pretend to be someone one is not.

Example: The whole grand reception was a masquerade.

10. Salient (adjective)

most noticeable or important.

Example: The nose was the most salient feature of his face .

11. Embroil (verb)

involve (someone) deeply in an argument, conflict, or difficult situation.

Example: She was embroiled in the scheme and there was no way out.

12. Languish (verb)

(of a person, animal, or plant) lose or lack vitality; grow weak.

Example: They just languished there in the sun.

13. Aspersion (noun)

an attack on the reputation or integrity of someone or something.

Example: They hurled aspersions as she came along.

14. Sedulous (adjective)

(of a person or action) showing dedication and diligence.

Example: He was the most sedulous worker we ever had.

15. Pertinacious (adjective)

holding firmly to an opinion or a course of action.

Example: This guy is so pertinacious. He’ll never let it go.

16. Encumber (verb)

restrict or impede (someone or something) in such a way that free action or movement is difficult.

Example: The thought of homework encumbered her mind for the rest of the day.

17. Effusion (noun)

a) an instance of giving off something such as a liquid or gas. b) an act of talking or writing in an unrestrained or heartfelt way.

Example: There was an effusion of boisterous laughter as she cracked a joke.

18. Waffle (verb)

speak or write at length vaguely or trivially.

Example: Stop waffling about it or I’ll pull your tongue out!

19. Intrepid (adjective)

fearless; adventurous (often used for rhetorical or humorous effect).

Example: He was the most intrepid warrior in the kingdom.

20. Mores (noun)

the essential or characteristic customs and conventions of a society or community.

Example: By not observing the mores, she put herself in trouble.

21. Disheveled (adjective)

untidy, disarranged

Example: The disheveled room had dirty socks and empty beer bottles on the floor.

22. Sumptuous (adjective)

splendid and expensive-looking

Example: They were regaled with sumptuous gifts and splendid food.

23. Reciprocate (verb)

respond to (a gesture or action) by making a corresponding one.

Example: The Moroccan trader gave him some tea, so he felt he had to reciprocate by buying something.

24. Infallible (adjective)

incapable of making mistakes or being wrong.

Example: When it comes to matters of money, he’s infallible.

25. Dissident (noun/adjective)

a) a person who opposes the official policy, especially that of an authoritarian state. b) in opposition to official policy.

Example: The government forces clashed with dissidents on Friday.

26. Dispatch (verb/noun)

a) send off to a destination or for a purpose. b) the sending of someone or something to a destination or for a purpose.

Example: Troops were dispatched to quash the riot.

27. Intransigence (noun)

refusal to change one’s views or to agree about something.

Example: Her character was that of endless intransigence and pigheadedness.

28. Pastoral (adjective/noun)

a) (of land) used for the keeping or grazing of sheep or cattle. b) a work of literature portraying an idealized version of country life.

Example: The light pastoral depicted children strolling through meadows among the cattle.

29. Concede (verb)

a) admit or agree that something is true after first denying or resisting it. b) surrender or yield (a possession, right, or privilege).

Example: After repeated requests from the bureaucrats, he finally conceded.

30. Manifold (adjective)

many and various

Example: There are manifold forms of life in the universe.

31. Punitive (adjective)

inflicting or intended as punishment.

Example: Punitive actions were taken against the delinquents.

32. Nonplus (noun/verb)

a) surprise and confuse (someone) so much that they are unsure how to react. b) a state of being very surprised and confused.

Example: They were nonplused by the stupidity of his remark.

33. Salacious (adjective)

a) having or conveying an undue or indecent interest in sexual matters.

Example: The salacious dog had to be restrained.

34. Behoove (verb)

a) it is a duty or responsibility for someone to do something. b) it is appropriate or suitable; it befits.

Example: It behooves us to act like decent people in this situation.

35. Vulpine (adjective)

a) relating to a fox or foxes. b) crafty; cunning.

Example: Her vulpine ways made him confused and thirsty for answers.

36. Premise (noun)

a) a previous statement or proposition from which another is inferred or follows as a conclusion.

Example: I will allow selling the property on the premise that you’ll pay the agreed price in cash.

37. Demise (noun)

a) a person’s death.

Example: The sudden fall led to his demise.

38. Megalomania (noun)

a) obsession with the exercise of power. b) delusion about one’s power or importance (typically as a symptom of manic or paranoid disorder).

Example: Megalomania was the worst, among his many negative qualities.

39. Asinine (adjective)

Example: Bringing a knife to a gunfight? You’re asinine.

40. Surfeit (noun/verb)

a) an excessive amount of something. b) cause (someone) to desire no more of something as a result of having consumed or done it to excess.

Example: They were surfeited with the chocolate pancakes.

41. Reputable (adjective)

having a good reputation.

Example: I’ll give you a recommendation for a reputable psychologist.

42. Oblique (adjective)

a) neither parallel nor at right angles to a specified or implied line; slanting. b) not expressed or done directly.

Example: His oblique explanations didn’t bring any light to the matter.

43. Jeopardize (verb)

put (someone or something) into a situation in which there is a danger of loss, harm, or failure.

Example: By divulging secret information, he jeopardized the whole operation.

44. Impudence (noun)

the quality of being impudent; impertinence.

Example: Her impudence was the main reason she wasn’t promoted.

45. Desolate (adjective/verb)

a) (of a place) uninhabited and giving an impression of bleak emptiness. b) make (a place) appear bleakly empty.

Example: Two weary cloaked travelers passed through this gloomy and desolate land.

46. Ballast (noun/verb)

a) heavy material, such as gravel, sand, or iron, placed in the bilge of a ship to ensure its stability. b) give stability to (a ship) by putting a heavy substance in its bilge.

Example: Drop the ballast or we’re going under!

47. Disperse (verb/adjective)

a) distribute or spread over a wide area. b) denoting a phase dispersed in another phase, as in a colloid.

Example: They dispersed the bug-killer over the field.

48. Faze (verb)

disturb or disconcert (someone).

Example: He wasn’t fazed by their threats.

49. Compunction (noun)

a feeling of guilt or moral scruple that prevents or follows the doing of something bad.

Example: She showed no compunction for the grisly crime she committed.

50. Complacency (noun)

a feeling of smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one’s achievements.

Example: Dwelling in complacency is how you lose the endgame.

51. Caliber (noun)

a) the quality of someone’s character or the level of their ability. b) the internal diameter or bore of a gun barrel.

Example: They needed a person of high caliber to complete this assignment.

52. Entreat (verb)

ask someone earnestly or anxiously to do something.

Example: She wouldn’t listen to entreating children surrounding her.

53. Dissection (noun)

a) the action of dissecting a body or plant to study its internal parts. b) a very detailed analysis of a text or idea.

Example: He dissected the paragraph with such precision that even the distinguished professors were amazed.

54. Antiquated (adjective)

old-fashioned or outdated.

Example: Stop using antiquated phrases.

55. Anguish (noun/verb)

a) severe mental or physical pain or suffering. b) be extremely distressed about something.

Example: To his anguish, she said they would never meet again.

56. Effeminate (adjective)

(of a man) having characteristics regarded as typical of a woman; unmanly.

Example: His effeminate nature was unattractive to most women.

57. Enmity (noun)

a state or feeling of active opposition or hostility.

Example: After the unfortunate event, a bitter feeling of enmity emerged between the two camps.

58. Epoch (noun)

a) a particular period in history or a person’s life. b) the beginning of a period in the history of someone or something.

Example: It was in the epoch of Socrates and Plato that ideas of the afterlife first took hold over the European psyche.

59. Intrinsic (adjective)

belonging naturally; essential.

Example: His talent for public speaking was an intrinsic part of his personality.

60. Quotidian (adjective)

of or occurring every day; daily.

Example: After struggling with the quotidian tasks, she was finally able to go to sleep.

61. Hazardous (adjective)

risky; dangerous.

Example: They started on their hazardous mission to Mars.

62. Peregrination (noun)

a journey, especially a long or meandering one.

Example: After many peregrinations, she finally settled in Jordan.

63. Attenuate (verb)

a) reduce the force, effect, or value of. b) reduce in thickness; make thin.

Example: Medical cannabis attenuated the pain of the cancer patient.

64. Unravel (verb)

untangle something.

Example: He was able to unravel the intricacies of the ancient language.

65. Behemoth (noun)

a) a huge or monstrous creature b) something enormous, especially a large and powerful organization.

Example: This tank was a behemoth, crushing everything in its way.

66. Impeccable (adjective)

by the highest standards; faultless.

Example: His reputation was impeccable among his peers.

67. Jaded (adjective)

a) bored or lacking enthusiasm, typically after having had too much of something. b) physically tired; exhausted.

Example: The privileged kids were jaded with another birthday party.

68. Figurative (adjective)

departing from a literal use of words; metaphorical.

Example: He was a master of pithy, figurative expressions.

69. Relic (noun)

a) an object surviving from an earlier time, especially one of historical interest. b) a part of a deceased holy person’s body or belongings kept as an object of reverence.

Example: Holy Grail is one of the most famous relics of all time.

70. Wreak (verb)

a) cause (a large amount of damage or harm). b) inflict (vengeance).

Example: They wreaked vengeance on those who crossed them.

71. Utopia (noun)

an imagined place or state of things in which everything is perfect.

Example: A harmonious republic was a utopia – impossible to conceive in the current political situation.

72. Vegetate (verb)

live or spend a period in a dull, inactive, unchallenging way.

Example: They vegetated in the neighborhood for years before they finally moved out.

73. Infringe (verb)

a) actively break the terms of (a law, agreement, etc.). b) act to limit or undermine (something); encroach on.

Example: He infringed on their agreement by opting out just after twenty days into the contract.

74. Subtlety (noun)

a) the quality or state of being subtle. b) a subtle distinction, feature, or argument.

Example: His paintings contained many subtleties and eclectic elements.

75. Epitaph (noun)

a phrase or form of words written in memory of a person who has died, especially as an inscription on a tombstone.

Example: “Always in our hearts,” said his tombstone.

76. Grisly (adjective)

causing horror or disgust.

Example: This grisly murder was depicted in graphic detail by the newspaper.

77. Libido (noun)

a) sexual desire. b) the energy of the sexual drive as a component of the life instinct.

Example: Even the sleeping pills were not able to restrain her libido. She was a true nymphomaniac!

78. Epitome (noun)

a) a person or thing that is a perfect example of a particular quality or type. b) a summary of a written work; an abstract

Example: The president was an epitome of imbecility.

79. Topple (verb)

a) overbalance or cause to overbalance and fall. b) remove (a government or person in authority) from power; overthrow.

Example: After drinking ten shots in a row, he tried to dance, but quickly toppled on the dance floor.

80. Morose (adjective)

a) sullen and ill-tempered.

Example: His morose mood was a turn-off for everyone he met.

81. Impalpable (adjective)

a) unable to be felt by touch. b) not easily comprehended.

Example: There was an impalpable sense of dread hanging in the air. Then they heard something behind the wall.

82. Gratuitous (adjective)

a) done without good reason; uncalled for. b) given or done free of charge.

Example: His gratuitous remark met with scorn from his companions.

83. Opaque (adjective)

not able to be seen through; not transparent.

Example: He couldn’t see anything through the opaque glass of the jail cell.

84. Postmortem (noun)

an examination of a dead body to determine the cause of death.

Example: The postmortem proved the hunch of the inspector to be true: the victim was strangled.

85. Eclectic (adjective/noun)

a) deriving ideas, styles, or tastes from a broad and diverse range of sources. b) a person who derives ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources.

Example: His eclectic interests made him a peerless raconteur.

86. Delve (verb)

reach inside a receptacle and search for something.

Example: She delved deeply into the details of the business deal.

87. Studious (adjective)

a) spending a lot of time studying or reading. b) done deliberately or with a purpose in mind.

Example: His studious ejaculations obscured their view of reality.

88. Impel (verb)

a) drive, force, or urge (someone) to do something. b) drive forward; propel.

Example: He impelled the soldiers to face the enemy.

89. Mannered (adjective)

a) behaving in a specified way. b) (of behavior, art, or a literary style) marked by idiosyncratic or exaggerated mannerisms; artificial.

Example: She answered in a mannered, slightly cocky way.

90. Peevish (adjective)

having or showing an irritable disposition.

Example: Don’t be so peevish! I just said: “You’re an asshole”.

91. Stickler (noun)

a person who insists on a certain quality or type of behavior

Example: She’s such a stickler for keeping the floor free of dirty socks.

92. Adulterate (verb)

render (something) poorer in quality by adding another substance.

Example: The adulterated vodka gave them a huge hangover.

93. Deplete (verb)

a) use up the supply or resources of. b) diminish in number or quantity.

Example: All our resources are being depleted.

94. Nadir (noun)

the lowest or most unsuccessful point in a situation.

Example: Even the best of us reach a nadir at some point in our lives.

95. Prelude (noun)

a) an action or event serving as an introduction to something more important. b) an introductory piece of music , most commonly an orchestral opening to an act of an opera, the first movement of a suite, or a piece preceding a fugue.

Example: Bathing in coconut milk was just a prelude to a long and complicated cosmetic procedure.

96. Curtail (verb)

reduce in extent or quantity; restrict on.

Example: He curtailed his late trips into the night.

97. Tacit (adjective)

understood or implied without being stated.

Example: Her nod was a sign of a tacit agreement.

98. Abstruse (adjective)

difficult to understand; obscure.

Example: His philosophy was abstruse.

99. Placate (verb)

make (someone) less angry or hostile.

Example: She placated the poor bastard by buying him another drink.

100. Fathomless (adjective)

unable to be measured or understood; extremely deep.

Example: The fathomless expanding cosmos.

101. Iconoclastic (adjective)

criticizing or attacking cherished beliefs or institutions.

Example: He said that Mother Theresa was evil. He likes this iconoclastic approach.

102. Antithesis (noun)

a person or thing that is the direct opposite of someone or something else.

Example: She’s an antithesis of a good musician.

103. Magniloquent (adjective)

using high-flown or bombastic language.

Example: His magniloquent speech didn’t impress anyone.

104. Deference (noun)

polite submission and respect. Example: He conceded with the request out of deference to the old man.

105. Unwitting (adjective)

a) (of a person) not aware of the full facts. b) not done on purpose; unintentional.

Example: His unwitting involvement in the crime ultimately put him in jail.

106. Mutinous (adjective)

a) (of a soldier or sailor) refusing to obey the orders of a person in authority. b) willful or disobedient.

Example: The mutinous sailors threw the captain over the board.

107. Craven (adjective/noun)

a) contemptibly lacking in courage; cowardly. b) a cowardly person.

Example: The craven fool wouldn’t get out of hiding to save his wife.

108. Luminary (noun)

a person who inspires or influences others, especially one prominent in a particular sphere.

Example: The luminaries slowly stepped on stage to converse about celestial bodies.

109. Homage (noun)

special honor or respect that is shown publicly.

Example: She played an exquisite song in homage to her master.

110. Cupidity (noun)

greed for money or possessions. Example: Cupidity left him with a lot of money, but no friends.

111. Syllogism (noun)

an instance of a form of reasoning in which a conclusion is drawn from two given or assumed propositions (premises)

Example: He amazed the audience and other debaters by employing brilliant syllogisms.

112. Facetious (adjective)

treating serious issues with deliberately inappropriate humor; flippant.

Example: Don’t be facetious! It’s a serious matter!

113. Martinet (noun)

a person who demands complete obedience; a strict disciplinarian.

Example: In the army, we soldiered under a hell of a martinet.

114. Irksome (adjective)

irritating; annoying. Example: His continuous questions were irksome.

115. Defalcate (verb)

embezzle (funds with which one has been entrusted).

Example: The embezzled the Jones family for one million dollars.

This is a part of the language and vocabulary series, which includes:

• 12 Ways to Expand Your Vocabulary
• 40 Best Essays of All Time (With Links)
• 50 Sophisticated Words in English (With Examples From Movies)
• 80 Most Beautiful Words in The World (Defined)
• 100 English Words With Deep Meanings

Parting words

In wrapping up, diving into the depths of the English language reveals a treasure trove of advanced words, each a testament to its rich tapestry and evolution. Embracing these linguistic gems not only elevates our expression but also deepens our appreciation for the language’s intricate beauty. Expand your vocabulary , and you unlock new realms of communication and understanding.

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Rafal Reyzer

Hey there, welcome to my blog! I'm a full-time entrepreneur building two companies, a digital marketer, and a content creator with 10+ years of experience. I started RafalReyzer.com to provide you with great tools and strategies you can use to become a proficient digital marketer and achieve freedom through online creativity. My site is a one-stop shop for digital marketers, and content enthusiasts who want to be independent, earn more money, and create beautiful things. Explore my journey here , and don't miss out on my AI Marketing Mastery online course.

Words To Use In Essays: Amplifying Your Academic Writing

Use this comprehensive list of words to use in essays to elevate your writing. Make an impression and score higher grades with this guide!

Words play a fundamental role in the domain of essay writing, as they have the power to shape ideas, influence readers, and convey messages with precision and impact. Choosing the right words to use in essays is not merely a matter of filling pages, but rather a deliberate process aimed at enhancing the quality of the writing and effectively communicating complex ideas. In this article, we will explore the importance of selecting appropriate words for essays and provide valuable insights into the types of words that can elevate the essay to new heights.

Words To Use In Essays

Using a wide range of words can make your essay stronger and more impressive. With the incorporation of carefully chosen words that communicate complex ideas with precision and eloquence, the writer can elevate the quality of their essay and captivate readers.

This list serves as an introduction to a range of impactful words that can be integrated into writing, enabling the writer to express thoughts with depth and clarity.

Significantly

Furthermore

Nonetheless

Nevertheless

Consequently

Accordingly

Subsequently

In contrast

Alternatively

Implications

Substantially

Transition Words And Phrases

Transition words and phrases are essential linguistic tools that connect ideas, sentences, and paragraphs within a text. They work like bridges, facilitating the transitions between different parts of an essay or any other written work. These transitional elements conduct the flow and coherence of the writing, making it easier for readers to follow the author’s train of thought.

Here are some examples of common transition words and phrases:

Furthermore: Additionally; moreover.

However: Nevertheless; on the other hand.

In contrast: On the contrary; conversely.

Therefore: Consequently; as a result.

Similarly: Likewise; in the same way.

Moreover: Furthermore; besides.

In addition: Additionally; also.

Nonetheless: Nevertheless; regardless.

Nevertheless: However; even so.

On the other hand: Conversely; in contrast.

These are just a few examples of the many transition words and phrases available. They help create coherence, improve the organization of ideas, and guide readers through the logical progression of the text. When used effectively, transition words and phrases can significantly guide clarity for writing.

Strong Verbs For Academic Writing

Strong verbs are an essential component of academic writing as they add precision, clarity, and impact to sentences. They convey actions, intentions, and outcomes in a more powerful and concise manner. Here are some examples of strong verbs commonly used in academic writing:

Analyze: Examine in detail to understand the components or structure.

Critique: Assess or evaluate the strengths and weaknesses.

Demonstrate: Show the evidence to support a claim or argument.

Illuminate: Clarify or make something clearer.

Explicate: Explain in detail a thorough interpretation.

Synthesize: Combine or integrate information to create a new understanding.

Propose: Put forward or suggest a theory, idea, or solution.

Refute: Disprove or argue against a claim or viewpoint.

Validate: Confirm or prove the accuracy or validity of something.

Advocate: Support or argue in favor of a particular position or viewpoint.

Adjectives And Adverbs For Academic Essays

Useful adjectives and adverbs are valuable tools in academic writing as they enhance the description, precision, and depth of arguments and analysis. They provide specific details, emphasize key points, and add nuance to writing. Here are some examples of useful adjectives and adverbs commonly used in academic essays:

Comprehensive: Covering all aspects or elements; thorough.

Crucial: Extremely important or essential.

Prominent: Well-known or widely recognized; notable.

Substantial: Considerable in size, extent, or importance.

Valid: Well-founded or logically sound; acceptable or authoritative.

Effectively: In a manner that produces the desired result or outcome.

Significantly: To a considerable extent or degree; notably.

Consequently: As a result or effect of something.

Precisely: Exactly or accurately; with great attention to detail.

Critically: In a careful and analytical manner; with careful evaluation or assessment.

Words To Use In The Essay Introduction

The words used in the essay introduction play a crucial role in capturing the reader’s attention and setting the tone for the rest of the essay. They should be engaging, informative, and persuasive. Here are some examples of words that can be effectively used in the essay introduction:

Intriguing: A word that sparks curiosity and captures the reader’s interest from the beginning.

Compelling: Conveys the idea that the topic is interesting and worth exploring further.

Provocative: Creates a sense of controversy or thought-provoking ideas.

Insightful: Suggests that the essay will produce valuable and thought-provoking insights.

Startling: Indicates that the essay will present surprising or unexpected information or perspectives.

Relevant: Emphasizes the significance of the topic and its connection to broader issues or current events.

Timely: Indicates that the essay addresses a subject of current relevance or importance.

Thoughtful: Implies that the essay will offer well-considered and carefully developed arguments.

Persuasive: Suggests that the essay will present compelling arguments to convince the reader.

Captivating: Indicates that the essay will hold the reader’s attention and be engaging throughout.

Words To Use In The Body Of The Essay

The words used in the body of the essay are essential for effectively conveying ideas, providing evidence, and developing arguments. They should be clear, precise, and demonstrate a strong command of the subject matter. Here are some examples of words that can be used in the body of the essay:

Evidence: When presenting supporting information or data, words such as “data,” “research,” “studies,” “findings,” “examples,” or “statistics” can be used to strengthen arguments.

Analysis: To discuss and interpret the evidence, words like “analyze,” “examine,” “explore,” “interpret,” or “assess” can be employed to demonstrate a critical evaluation of the topic.

Comparison: When drawing comparisons or making contrasts, words like “similarly,” “likewise,” “in contrast,” “on the other hand,” or “conversely” can be used to highlight similarities or differences.

Cause and effect: To explain the relationship between causes and consequences, words such as “because,” “due to,” “leads to,” “results in,” or “causes” can be utilized.

Sequence: When discussing a series of events or steps, words like “first,” “next,” “then,” “finally,” “subsequently,” or “consequently” can be used to indicate the order or progression.

Emphasis: To emphasize a particular point or idea, words such as “notably,” “significantly,” “crucially,” “importantly,” or “remarkably” can be employed.

Clarification: When providing further clarification or elaboration, words like “specifically,” “in other words,” “for instance,” “to illustrate,” or “to clarify” can be used.

Integration: To show the relationship between different ideas or concepts, words such as “moreover,” “furthermore,” “additionally,” “likewise,” or “similarly” can be utilized.

Conclusion: When summarizing or drawing conclusions, words like “in conclusion,” “to summarize,” “overall,” “in summary,” or “to conclude” can be employed to wrap up ideas.

Remember to use these words appropriately and contextually, ensuring they strengthen the coherence and flow of arguments. They should serve as effective transitions and connectors between ideas, enhancing the overall clarity and persuasiveness of the essay.

Words To Use In Essay Conclusion

The words used in the essay conclusion are crucial for effectively summarizing the main points, reinforcing arguments, and leaving a lasting impression on the reader. They should bring a sense of closure to the essay while highlighting the significance of ideas. Here are some examples of words that can be used in the essay conclusion:

Summary: To summarize the main points, these words can be used “in summary,” “to sum up,” “in conclusion,” “to recap,” or “overall.”

Reinforcement: To reinforce arguments and emphasize their importance, words such as “crucial,” “essential,” “significant,” “noteworthy,” or “compelling” can be employed.

Implication: To discuss the broader implications of ideas or findings, words like “consequently,” “therefore,” “thus,” “hence,” or “as a result” can be utilized.

Call to action: If applicable, words that encourage further action or reflection can be used, such as “we must,” “it is essential to,” “let us consider,” or “we should.”

Future perspective: To discuss future possibilities or developments related to the topic, words like “potential,” “future research,” “emerging trends,” or “further investigation” can be employed.

Reflection: To reflect on the significance or impact of arguments, words such as “profound,” “notable,” “thought-provoking,” “transformative,” or “perspective-shifting” can be used.

Final thought: To leave a lasting impression, words or phrases that summarize the main idea or evoke a sense of thoughtfulness can be used, such as “food for thought,” “in light of this,” “to ponder,” or “to consider.”

How To Improve Essay Writing Vocabulary

Improving essay writing vocabulary is essential for effectively expressing ideas, demonstrating a strong command of the language, and engaging readers. Here are some strategies to enhance the essay writing vocabulary:

• Read extensively: Reading a wide range of materials, such as books, articles, and essays, can give various writing styles, topics, and vocabulary. Pay attention to new words and their usage, and try incorporating them into the writing.
• Use a dictionary and thesaurus:  Look up unfamiliar words in a dictionary to understand their meanings and usage. Additionally, utilize a thesaurus to find synonyms and antonyms to expand word choices and avoid repetition.
• Create a word bank: To create a word bank, read extensively, write down unfamiliar or interesting words, and explore their meanings and usage. Organize them by categories or themes for easy reference, and practice incorporating them into writing to expand the vocabulary.
• Contextualize vocabulary: Simply memorizing new words won’t be sufficient; it’s crucial to understand their proper usage and context. Pay attention to how words are used in different contexts, sentence structures, and rhetorical devices. 

How To Add Additional Information To Support A Point

When writing an essay and wanting to add additional information to support a point, you can use various transitional words and phrases. Here are some examples:

Furthermore: Add more information or evidence to support the previous point.

Additionally: Indicates an additional supporting idea or evidence.

Moreover: Emphasizes the importance or significance of the added information.

In addition: Signals the inclusion of another supporting detail.

Furthermore, it is important to note: Introduces an additional aspect or consideration related to the topic.

Not only that, but also: Highlights an additional point that strengthens the argument.

Equally important: Emphasizes the equal significance of the added information.

Another key point: Introduces another important supporting idea.

It is worth noting: Draws attention to a noteworthy detail that supports the point being made.

Additionally, it is essential to consider: Indicates the need to consider another aspect or perspective.

Using these transitional words and phrases will help you seamlessly integrate additional information into your essay, enhancing the clarity and persuasiveness of your arguments.

Words And Phrases That Demonstrate Contrast

When crafting an essay, it is crucial to effectively showcase contrast, enabling the presentation of opposing ideas or the highlighting of differences between concepts. The adept use of suitable words and phrases allows for the clear communication of contrast, bolstering the strength of arguments. Consider the following examples of commonly employed words and phrases to illustrate the contrast in essays:

However: e.g., “The experiment yielded promising results; however, further analysis is needed to draw conclusive findings.”

On the other hand: e.g., “Some argue for stricter gun control laws, while others, on the other hand, advocate for individual rights to bear arms.”

Conversely: e.g., “While the study suggests a positive correlation between exercise and weight loss, conversely, other research indicates that diet plays a more significant role.”

Nevertheless: e.g., “The data shows a decline in crime rates; nevertheless, public safety remains a concern for many citizens.”

In contrast: e.g., “The economic policies of Country A focus on free-market principles. In contrast, Country B implements more interventionist measures.”

Despite: e.g., “Despite the initial setbacks, the team persevered and ultimately achieved success.”

Although: e.g., “Although the participants had varying levels of experience, they all completed the task successfully.”

While: e.g., “While some argue for stricter regulations, others contend that personal responsibility should prevail.”

Words To Use For Giving Examples

When writing an essay and providing examples to illustrate your points, you can use a variety of words and phrases to introduce those examples. Here are some examples:

For instance: Introduces a specific example to support or illustrate your point.

For example: Give an example to clarify or demonstrate your argument.

Such as: Indicates that you are providing a specific example or examples.

To illustrate: Signals that you are using an example to explain or emphasize your point.

One example is: Introduces a specific instance that exemplifies your argument.

In particular: Highlights a specific example that is especially relevant to your point.

As an illustration: Introduces an example that serves as a visual or concrete representation of your point.

A case in point: Highlights a specific example that serves as evidence or proof of your argument.

To demonstrate: Indicates that you are providing an example to show or prove your point.

To exemplify: Signals that you are using an example to illustrate or clarify your argument.

Using these words and phrases will help you effectively incorporate examples into your essay, making your arguments more persuasive and relatable. Remember to give clear and concise examples that directly support your main points.

Words To Signifying Importance

When writing an essay and wanting to signify the importance of a particular point or idea, you can use various words and phrases to convey this emphasis. Here are some examples:

Crucially: Indicates that the point being made is of critical importance.

Significantly: Highlights the importance or significance of the idea or information.

Importantly: Draws attention to the crucial nature of the point being discussed.

Notably: Emphasizes that the information or idea is particularly worthy of attention.

It is vital to note: Indicates that the point being made is essential and should be acknowledged.

It should be emphasized: Draws attention to the need to give special importance or focus to the point being made.

A key consideration is: Highlight that the particular idea or information is a central aspect of the discussion.

It is critical to recognize: Emphasizes that the understanding or acknowledgment of the point is crucial.

Using these words and phrases will help you convey the importance and significance of specific points or ideas in your essay, ensuring that readers recognize their significance and impact on the overall argument.

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How to Use Big Words Without Making a Fool of Yourself

by Guest Blogger | 7 comments

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Have you ever used a word for years — like, maybe during your thesis defense or in a high-profile report for work — then realized one day that you had it totally wrong? Those big words you thought were making you look so erudite were, in fact, working against you. Turns out, coif is not the same as coiffure, and you never even realized it.

No one is immune from this, neither journalists nor poets, essayists nor novelists. The problem often stems from our natural inclination as writers to grab hold of an exciting new word and just run with it. Not only do we end up using big words just plain wrong , our enthusiasm leads to overuse as well.

By slowing down just a little bit, recognizing common pitfalls, and inserting some deliberate practice into your vocabulary usage, you can turn this trend around.

6 Big Word Sins You Can Learn to Avoid

We love those flashy mots , but in the pursuit of better craft, we often make our writing worse. Here are five common slipups writers make with big words:

Sin 1: Confusing Similar Words

You’ve probably come across the idea that only the first and last letters of a word are really important , while those between can be jumbled without losing meaning. This idea seems to contain the seeds of truth, which is bad for us writers who don’t parse vocab carefully enough.

At first glance, enervate and energize may look and sound the same, and seem to mean the same thing. Same with meretricious and meritorious. Unfortunately, these word pairs are opposites. To enervate is to drain energy; to energize is to add it. Meretricious means cheap or tawdry; meritorious means worthy or deserving of praise.

If you’re not careful to examine all of a word, you may end up using it wrong. Once you misapply it a few times, it gets cemented in your brain and will be hard to change. No Bueno.

Sin 2: Assuming You Know What Words Mean From Context

As writers, we’re used to absorbing vocabulary from what we read. That’s great, but only if you monitor the process. Otherwise, you can easily become confused. Take the above example of coif and coiffure. To coif is a verb; a coiffure is a hairstyle. You do the first; you have the second.

Luxuriant and luxurious are also frequently confused. Luxuriant doesn’t mean plush; it means lots of it . You have luxuriant hair; you get luxurious haircuts at expensive salons. If you’re not sure, follow my mom’s oft-repeated advice: Look it up .

Sin 3: Using the Word Multiple Times in Close Proximity

This … annoys me … so much. If you use a distinctive word too many times, I promise you readers will notice.

I’ll give you an example. Of late, fantasy authors have fallen in luuuuurve with the word “eldritch,” meaning bizarre or sinister. Now, this is a great word, but it’s not good enough to justify using more than once in a novel. There are other words for “weird and sinister,” starting with either “weird” or “sinister.” Just sayin’.

This can occur with phrases too. I love the Throne of Glass series, but my pet peeve is Sarah J. Maas’ use of “killing fields.” Yes, it’s a cool, if dark, term. But it’s so distinctive that at ten uses per novel, each new reference begins to grate. No matter how excited you are, keep your shiny new word to one instance.

Sin 4: Using Too Many DIFFERENT Words in Close Proximity

Like the above advice, readers notice when your prose or copy is suddenly crammed with four-syllable words. Keeping the big guys to a minimum is a good way to make those you do use stand out, so stick with one or two per page, at a maximum.

If it’s a word most people don’t know (eyeballing you, “eldritch”), give it even more space. Otherwise your readers will find your writing taxing, and they will get tired of it. You’re not James Joyce. Sorry.

Sin 5: Integrating More Than One Word into Your Vocab at a Time

I’m stoked you like the great authors. I do too. But while reading classic lit is a great way to expand our vocab, it’s also a great way to cram our brains full of words with which we’re only half conversant … and biff it in that thesis defense.

When you read a new word, dog-ear that page or write it down. Don’t just absorb it and conclude you “know” what it means. Then look words up carefully and practice (below) to be sure you know how to use them. If you come across many new words in a short amount of time, write them down in a document and reference it when you have some free writing time.

Sin 6: Using the Word in Dialogue When It’s Out of Character

The occasional professor or lair-bound scientist can fairly employ flowery phrasing, but chances are good your medieval heroines and subversive Nazi soldiers don’t have overflowing vocabularies. You can use that fancy five-syllable exclamation, but they probably won’t. Of course, you know your characters better than anyone else, but for the most part, you should keep their language simpler than your prose.

Choose Your Words

Phew, that was a lot of don’ts.

Luckily there is also a DO! Do use deliberate practice to improve your command of new words you stumble across. If you haven’t stumbled in a while, feel free to head to your favorite writing blog or dictionary, both of which commonly suggest new words to use. Stuck for ideas? Check out some of our favorite big words here .

When you encounter a new word you love the sound of, look it up and absorb its meaning. To deepen your understanding, check out a few examples of it in use — dictionary and encyclopedia sites are a handy way to do this, as they often offer sample sentences.

Big and uncommon words can be the perfect things to make your prose sizzle. By avoiding these egregious sins, you'll ensure each one packs a punch. Don't stop using your fancy vocabulary! Just make sure it's working for you, not against you.

What's your favorite uncommon word to use in your writing? What's a word you often see overused or misused?  Let us know in the comments .

Now it’s your turn: Find a word you're unfamiliar with. Flip through a dictionary, or pick one off this list . Then, take fifteen minutes to write three paragraphs, using the new word once in each.

Post your practice in the comments section so we can all see your work and boost our vocabulary skills along with you! And if you post, be sure to leave feedback for your fellow writers!

Guest Blogger

This article is by a guest blogger. Would you like to write for The Write Practice? Check out our guest post guidelines .

I have to look up so many words! Whenever I read a book, there are words I don’t know. And, this helps me extend my vocabulary. And, yes. As a Mom, I tell my kids, “Go get the dictionary.” And, me too. Thank you for the article.

Thank you for reading! Knowing how to look up words is an actual skill, so it’s always good to teach our kiddos a better way! And I still see words that I don’t know all the time. KNOWLEDGE.

Telling kids to’Go get the dictionary’ whilst ultimately being hard on the tome is a much better choice than simply telling them. Well done!

You’re welcome! I too have to look up so many words. It’s one of the best things in life. 🙂

I love Sin #1 – malapropisms are the beast… I mean, best!

Hahaha and I love that word so much, it’s almost worth it!

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