"WORD!"

                                           

                                                    The Building Block of Words

            What is word building? Per www.merriam.webster, it is the act or process of forming words: a: word-formation. b: the act or process of spelling out words (as in a contest) with the use of only those letters found in a particular word or phrase.

            Elementary right? Well, you would think, but word building is a big deal. As children, we learn the building block of words by listening to our parents, adding to that database steadily.

            Then, once we’re older, words help develop our vocabulary further, but we also learn the difference between synonyms, homonyms, and how to use the English language effectively. 

            Words help us to express emotion and share our most intimate thoughts, verbally, or by signing them. I mean, where would the world be without them?

            Words are essential tools in communication that bring clarity to human existence. They are insightful and demonstrative in our every day lives. We think words before we speak them, a proven scientific fact.           

            As writers, in building our vocabulary, we develop a word database also. Imagine if you only had a limited vocabulary, why even bother to waste your time trying to tell that story, right?

            Remember, great writers are also great readers—something we should do daily to keep us in tip-top shape mentally and vocally.

            We should think of word-building as a vast ocean of opportunity. The more you know, the better you become with improved writing and communication skills.

If you want to impress your audience, then hit them with a combination of embellishment and eloquence.

Keep in mind all words stored on your database aren’t necessary for every occasion. For example, in general, conversation practical is best. After all, we don’t need to impress our friends and family. Nor by using “big words” show how smart or diverse you are.

            One way to stay on top of your word game is by learning new ones and use them often. Now I know this might sound a bit basic, but challenge yourself to incorporate them in your writing.

If you find it challenging to develop a new list of words on your own, try using a thesaurus. Look up words you don’t know, identify empty words.

Learn ways to change words from comprehensive to expressive, weigh when to use them by remembering practical versus showy.

Words can start wars or proclaim peace. It’s all in how you use them in the large building block of the world's universal language.