Precise Vocabulary: Choose the Exact Word

Precision means choosing the word that best matches what you want to say. English often gives you a broad word, then a few more specific options beside it. When you choose the more specific word, your meaning is easier to understand, and you usually need fewer extra words to explain yourself.

Key takeaways

• Precision is choosing the exact word, not a broad, approximate one.
• A specific verb or noun often is better used than a vague word plus extra explanation.
• Precise words are usually shorter to say and easier to follow.
• Small upgrades, like sprint instead of run very fast, make your speech sound clearer and more impactful.

How to use precise vocabulary

1. Replace a broad verb with the exact one.

• ✓ She sprinted to catch the bus.
• ✗ She ran very fast to catch the bus.

2. Replace a vague adjective with a precise one.

• ✓ The instructions were clear.
• ✗ The instructions were good.

3. Name the thing exactly instead of using a general word.

• ✓ He packed his passport and tickets.
• ✗ He packed his important documents and tickets.

4. Swap very plus a basic word for one strong word.

• ✓ The film was gripping.
• ✗ The film was very interesting.

Test yourself

Precision is a habit worth building, because one exact word often does the work of five. Practise finding it out loud and get instant feedback on Speechful. Start practising free →