Hello Empowered Wayers!
The difference between the almost right word and the right word
is the difference between the lightning bug and lightning. - Mark Twain
Word choice is the craft of the writer and storyteller. But how do you know which word to use when?
It helps to know the etymology or the study of the origin of words. I know that when I began my Wealth Coaching business, I became interested in etymology when I discovered the original meaning of “wealth.” It turned my practice into a passion instead of a way to pay the bills.
The word “wealth” derives from the Old English word, “weal,” which meant well-being. What is well-being? To me, it means when the five areas of my life are balanced. When my mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and financial aspects are in sync and energized, I am wealthy because I experience well-being.
More examples of why the origin of words matter
Have you ever noticed that you can remember a word or phrase much longer if you attach it to a context? When you learn the history or orginal of the word, it provides a context that makes the word much easier to remember.
For example, do you know what a Hobson’s choice means? You will after reading the story behind the name.
Thomas Hobson owned a livery stable in seventeenth-century England. He loved his horses, and to prevent any one horse from being overworked, he hired them out in turn, beginning with stall number one. Customers had to take the horses they were given. Thus, Hobson's choice means no choice at all.
Why is Indiana called the “Hoosier” state? When the state was first being settled, the pioneers were fairly rough in their manners. When someone knocked at the front door, the settler would call out, "Who's yere?"
Homonyms: When Sound Deceives Meaning
Context is also important when choosing the correct word in written communication. When the writer mistakes one word for another because they both sound the same, it signals a lack of attention to detail.
A homonym are words that sound alike but have different meanings. For example, “there” and “their” sound identical but when misplaced, create a negative impression of your language skills.
The word “knew” and “new” sound identical but have two different meanings. If you used the word “new” when you should have chosen “knew,” your reader will quickly decide to move on.
Spaces and Letter Arrangement: Shaping Perspectives
It's not just the sound or context that plays tricks on our understanding; even the arrangement of letters and the inclusion or exclusion of spaces can transform meaning dramatically.
The transition from "impossible" to "I'm possible" is a classic example. A mere apostrophe and space turn a word that denotes inability into a motivational statement of potential. Such transformations highlight the dynamism of language and its potential to shape our mindset and perspectives.
Another captivating example is "nowhere" and "now here." The former implies the absence of a specific place or direction, whereas the latter emphasizes presence and immediacy. Isn’t it amazing how the mere addition of a space can shift the essence of a word?
The Takeaway
Please share any examples of using words correctly and in the proper context. Have you come across a funny story about why a place is named?
As writers and storytellers, our work is elevated when we are careful with our words. When we know the background or story behind the word, it gives us a deeper level to communicate our message.
Blessings,
Kathryn
Word Choice Matters