How to Use Vivid Language In Writing

Vivid language is the difference between captivating writing and words that bore. Writing with rich sensory details turns novels into page turners and sales pitches into success stories. Here are some writing tips for using vivid language in essays, fiction, nonfiction and business writing.

Instructions

1. Understand why vivid language makes writing interesting so you'll know why you need to master this writing skill. Go to the bookstore and grab any novel on the bestseller list. Start reading the first page--chances are, if you're hooked, the book began with vivid language.

2. Do some exercises to increase your vivid language writing skills. Find an object in your room to describe. Write a description so that someone who hasn't seen the object can envision it. Be as specific as possible. Rather than calling it a "brown shoe," call it a "creased chocolate brown leather loafer missing its laces."

3. Use all five senses when you write. Describe the way things smell, feel, look, taste and sound. You don't have to do this for every single object you describe, but try to include each sense in a piece of writing.

4. Edit your writing to make it more specific. Whenever you can add more details, sprinkle them in. Become aware of the difference between a small girl and a thin, willowy girl--of a watery blue sky and a bright blue cloudless sky.

5. Read poetry and literature to become more aware of how famous writers use vivid language in their writing. Soon, it will become more natural for you to do the same.