Words to use
Words with somewhere to go.
A definition is the start. Each page shows where the word fits, where it does not, and a small reason to use it in your own language.
/ˈkæn.dɪd/
candid
Honest and direct, especially about a difficult subject.
Use this word/ˈluː.sɪd/
lucid
Expressed clearly and easy to understand.
Use this word/ˈmeʒ.əd/
measured
Careful, controlled, and not rushed or extreme.
Use this word/ˈtækt.fəl/
tactful
Careful not to upset or offend while dealing with something difficult.
Use this word/ˈnjuː.ɑːnst/
nuanced
Showing subtle but important differences or distinctions.
Use this word/ɑːrˈtɪk.jə.lət/
articulate
Able to express thoughts clearly and effectively.
Use this word/dɪˈlɪb.ər.ət/
deliberate
Done consciously and carefully, rather than by accident.
Use this word/ɪˈvɒk.ə.tɪv/
evocative
Bringing a strong image, memory, or feeling to mind.
Use this word/æmˈbɪv.ə.lənt/
ambivalent
Having mixed or conflicting feelings about something.
Use this word/præɡˈmæt.ɪk/
pragmatic
Focused on what will work in practice.
Use this word/ˈrek.ən.saɪl/
reconcile
Find a way for conflicting ideas, needs, or accounts to coexist.
Use this word/ɪnˈsaɪ.sɪv/
incisive
Clear and direct, with a quick grasp of what matters.
Use this word/ˈseɪ.li.ənt/
salient
Most noticeable or important in the current context.
Use this word/ˈkwɒl.ɪ.faɪ/
qualify
Limit or soften a statement by adding conditions or detail.
Use this word/kənˈsiːd/
concede
Admit that something is true or valid, often reluctantly.
Use this word/ˌek.wəˈnɪm.ə.ti/
equanimity
Calmness and steadiness, especially under pressure.
Use this word/ˈwɪst.fəl/
wistful
Quietly sad because you miss something or wish it could happen.
Use this word/ˈpɔɪ.njənt/
poignant
Causing a strong feeling of sadness or tenderness.
Use this word/ˈret.ɪ.sənt/
reticent
Unwilling to speak openly or readily.
Use this word/ˌʌn.dəˈsteɪ.tɪd/
understated
Expressed or presented with restraint rather than emphasis.
Use this word