Synonyms are those neat little words that can help writers add color to an otherwise monotone passage in any work, whether fiction or nonfiction. In fact, many writers (such as me) use synonym finders to help them find that specific word they're looking for but can't quite remember. I believe anyone who writes regularly ought to have a good synonym finder on hand to help them find just the right word.

Yet it is possible to go overboard with synonyms to the point where your writing can go from clear and exciting to puzzling and boring. Here's an example of what I mean:

Jack ducked to avoid Bernard's sword and then countered with a blow of his own. But the enemy swordsman leapt out of the way and responded with a flurry of attacks that the other dodged with grace. The pirate lashed out with a kick that would have knocked the soldier's head off his shoulders had he not jumped out of the way in the nick of time. This caused the sea dog to angrily swipe at the landlubber with his blade.

In this passage, Jack and Bernard become the "other" and the "enemy swordsman" to "pirate" and "soldier" to "sea dog" and "landlubber" all in one paragraph. It makes it sound as though there are multiple different people fighting, when in fact it's only two men.

Here is the improved version:

Jack ducked to avoid Bernard's sword and then countered with a blow of his own. But the soldier leapt out of the way and responded with a flurry of attacks that Jack dodged with grace. The pirate lashed out with a kick that would have knocked Bernard's head off his shoulders had he not jumped out of the way in the nick of time. This caused Jack to angrily swipe at Bernard with his blade.

See how much clearer it is? Jack and Bernard's names are used regularly, reminding us who is attacking who and who is dodging what, while only two synonyms -- pirate for Jack, soldier for Bernard -- are used to break up the monotony and repetitive use of names. The number of people in the fight is clearer as well.

Think of synonyms like salt. Too much and the dish loses it flavor; too little and it barely affects the dish's taste. Just enough, however, and it makes the dish delicious.

-TNTOS-