To Thesaurus or not to Thesaurus?

That is the question, especially if your goal is to be sincere, authentic and effective in your writing.

By way of review, a thesaurus features words and phrases with similar meanings (synonyms) and sometimes those with opposite meanings (antonyms) as well. This can be especially helpful if you find yourself using the same, tired words over and over again. Look out especially for overusing the same adjectives (describing a noun), and adverbs (describing a verb or action).

Yes, professional writers use a thesaurus, but we do so judiciously (synonym: carefully). Here is a quick guide to help you use a thesaurus (plural “thesauri”?) to produce work that sounds like you – only better.

• Read it out loud. If the new, thesaurus-sourced word sounds awkward, leave it out.
• Go from simplest to alternative. Start with a “simple” word you believe works. Then seek out alternatives via your thesaurus. If the simpler is better, stick with it.
• Know your audience. Pick one person you know who is in the group or fits the profile of the audience you’re addressing. If it feels uncomfortable using this word for this type of reader, leave it out.
• Tone and Color. If the new word helps the overall feel of what you’ve written – perhaps making it more vivid or more memorable, that’s a good sign.

A word about AI.

While AI-generated content is a completely different animal altogether, the rules of thumb described above can be helpful when reviewing and revising any AI-produced content – which you always should do. The key: make sure it sounds like you, not some generic voice.

Do I use a thesaurus? Yes, very often (syn: frequently, regularly, a lot). I use online versions as well as (gasp) a wonderfully dog-eared, old school printed version of The Synonym Finder that has migrated with me through various offices and career moves. It’s a beast of a resource.

So freshen up your writing by tapping into the insight of a thesaurus. You’ll be happy (syn: glad, delighted, excited) that you did.

Tom White is a business communications consultant, content writer and President & Creative Director at The White Agency, Inc. A copywriter by training, he assists clients in all aspects of creating a better message, from strategy to copy to speechwriting. "I say what you'd say, only better."