Two Words: Which of Them Should I Use?

Award-winning writer Kathy Widenhouse has helped hundreds of nonprofits and writers produce successful content and has gained 600K+ views for her writing tutorials. She is the author of 9 books. See more of Kathy’s content here.

An online devotional for writers

A Word From The Word

If you speak words … that are not intelligible and clear, how will anyone understand what you are saying? (1 Corinthians 14:9, AMP)

A Word For Writers

"Utilize" versus "use." Grammarians say that the distinction between the two words has disappeared. Any shade of difference in meaning is inconsequential.

Which begs the question: why does any content writer or copywriter use the word "utilize" when "use" will do? 

Content writers are taught to write like we talk. One way is to replace a 10-dollar word with a 10-cent word whenever I can.  "Utilize" is the 10-dollar, three-syllable, elongated version of its 3-letter, 10-cent cousin.

When I write "utilize" rather than "use," I notice an uncomfortable truth: "utilize" pops up in my writing when I want to sound smart. It's a crutch - a crutch I use for my benefit, not my reader's.

If a more complicated word is needed to make a point, I can use it. But on my good days when I'm writing to benefit my readers, I avoid utilizing unnecessary, high-falutin' language.

The choice between two words is this: the more complicated word may make me feel that I am smart. But the simpler word is easier for my reader to understand.

When I put myself first, I am tempted to use the fancier word. 

When I put my reader first, I use the simpler word.

The truth is that my job is to write as clearly as possible so that the reader can understand my point.

A Wise Word

Use simple language whenever you can.

A Word To Pray

Loving Father,

When I am tempted to use words in a way to make myself feel I am smart, show me my motives. Let my focus be on clear communication. Help me express ideas in the simplest way possible.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

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