another name creative writing

14 Types of Creative Writing

by Melissa Donovan | Apr 6, 2021 | Creative Writing | 20 comments

Which types of creative writing have you tried?

When we talk about creative writing, fiction and poetry often take the spotlight, but there are many other types of creative writing that we can explore.

Most writers develop a preference for one form (and genre) above all others. This can be a good thing, because you can specialize in your form and genre and become quite proficient. However, occasionally working with other types of writing is beneficial. It prevents your work from becoming stale and overladen with form- or genre-specific clichés, and it’s a good way to acquire a variety of techniques that are uncommon in your preferred form and genre but that can be used to enhance it.

Let’s look at some different types of creative writing. As you read through the list, note the types of writing you’ve experimented with and the types you’d like to try.

Types of Creative Writing

Free writing: Open a notebook or an electronic document and just start writing. Allow strange words and images to find their way to the page. Anything goes! Also called stream-of-consciousness writing, free writing is the pinnacle of creative writing.

Journals: A journal is any written log. You could keep a gratitude journal, a memory journal, a dream journal, or a goals journal. Many writers keep idea journals or all-purpose omni-journals that can be used for everything from daily free writes to brainstorming and project planning.

Diaries: A diary is a type of journal in which you write about your daily life. Some diaries are written in letter format (“Dear Diary…”). If you ever want to write a memoir, then it’s a good idea to start keeping a diary.

Letters: Because the ability to communicate effectively is increasingly valuable, letter writing is a useful skill. There is a long tradition of publishing letters, so take extra care with those emails you’re shooting off to friends, family, and business associates. Hot tip: one way to get published if you don’t have a lot of clips and credits is to write letters to the editor of a news publication.

Memoir: A genre of creative nonfiction , memoirs are books that contain personal accounts (or stories) that focus on specific experiences. For example, one might write a travel memoir.

Essays. Essays are often associated with academic writing, but there are many types of essays, including personal essays, descriptive essays, and persuasive essays, all of which can be quite creative (and not especially academic).

Journalism: Some forms of journalism are more creative than others. Traditionally, journalism was objective reporting on facts, people, and events. Today, journalists often infuse their writing with opinion and storytelling to make their pieces more compelling or convincing.

Poetry: Poetry is a popular but under-appreciated type of writing, and it’s easily the most artistic form of writing. You can write form poetry, free-form poetry, and prose poetry.

Song Lyrics: Song lyrics combine the craft of writing with the artistry of music. Composing lyrics is similar to writing poetry, and this is an ideal type of writing for anyone who can play a musical instrument.

Scripts: Hit the screen or the stage by writing scripts for film, television, theater, or video games. Beware: film is a director’s medium, not a writer’s medium, but movies have the potential to reach a non-reading audience.

Storytelling: Storytelling is the most popular form of creative writing and is found in the realms of both fiction and nonfiction writing. Popular forms of fiction include flash fiction, short stories, novellas, and full-length novels; and there are tons of genres to choose from. True stories, which are usually firsthand or secondhand accounts of real people and events, can be found in essays, diaries, memoirs, speeches, and more. Storytelling is a tremendously valuable skill, as it can be found in all other forms of writing, from poetry to speech writing.

Speeches: Whether persuasive, inspirational, or informative, speech writing can lead to interesting career opportunities in almost any field or industry. Also, speech-writing skills will come in handy if you’re ever asked to write and deliver a speech at an important event, such as a graduation, wedding, or award ceremony.

Vignettes: A  vignette is defined as “a brief evocative description, account, or episode.” Vignettes can be poems, stories, descriptions, personal accounts…anything goes really. The key is that a vignette is extremely short — just a quick snippet.

Honorable Mention: Blogs. A blog is not a type of writing; it’s a publishing platform — a piece of technology that displays web-based content on an electronic device. A blog can be used to publish any type of writing. Most blogs feature articles and essays, but you can also find blogs that contain diaries or journals, poetry, fiction, journalism, and more.

Which of these types of creative writing have you tried? Are there any forms of writing on this list that you’d like to experiment with? Can you think of any other types of creative writing to add to this list? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment, and keep writing.

20 Comments

What is “flash” writing or stories.

Flash fiction refers to super short stories, a few hundred words or fewer.

its very helpful especially to those students like me who wasn’t capable or good in doing a creative writing

I’m glad you found this post helpful, Elena.

I also found this to be very helpful, especially because I don’t do very well at writing.

Thanks for letting me know you found this helpful. Like anything else, writing improves with practice.

Thank you Melissa. It’s very helpful!

You’re welcome!

Over all good list. Yes blogs can be publishing platforms but only if something is written first. I read what you wrote on a blog.

Thanks a lot Good job

Are these types of creaitve writing the same or different if I need to teach children’s creative writing? Can you recommend a website to teach these?

Hi Marie. Thanks for your question. I’ve come across many websites for teaching children’s creative writing. I recommend a search on Google, which will lead you to a ton of resources.

these are very helpful when it comes to getting in college or essays or just to improve my writing

Thanks, Donte. I’m glad you found this helpful.

Free writing really helps me get going. For some reason my prose are much better when I am not beholden to an overall plot or narrative with specific defined characters. I like to free writer “excerpts” on theprose.com. It allows me to practice writing and receive feedback at the same time. I am also trying to blog about writing my first novel, both for writing practice and to keep myself accountable. It really helps!

I feel the same way. Free writing is always a fun and creative experience for me.

Was trying to give an inservice on writing skills and the different types of writing.

Your wok here really helped. Thanks.

You’re welcome.

Hi, Melissa can you assist me ? I’m trying to improve my writing skills as quickly as possible. Plz send me some more tips and trick to improve my writing and communication skills.

You are welcome to peruse this website, which is packed with tips for improving your writing. I’d recommend focusing on the categories Better Writing and Writing Tips for writing improvement. You can also subscribe to get new articles send directly to your email. Thanks!

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Creative Writing Words

Words are the building blocks of stories, the tools that paint vivid pictures and stir emotions in our readers. But for aspiring writers, the vast ocean of vocabulary can feel daunting. Fear not, wordsmiths! This guide delves into the treasure trove of creative writing words , helping you unearth gems that will elevate your craft.

List of Creative Writing Words

Astonishing

Captivating

Charismatic

Conspicuous

Contemplate

Effervescent

Enthralling

Fantastical

Illuminating

Incandescent

Indomitable

Inquisitive

Mesmerizing

Paradoxical

Rambunctious

Resplendent

Scintillating

Spectacular

Spellbinding

Spontaneous

Transcendent

Clandestine

Quintessential

Serendipitous

Superfluous

Unfathomable

Creative Writing Words with meaning and examples

Here is the table of Creative Writing words with their meanings and examples:

• Meaning: Existing or available in large quantities; plentiful.
• Example: The garden was abundant with flowers, creating a vibrant display of colors.
• Meaning: To make (suffering, deficiency, or a problem) less severe.
• Example: The new medication helped alleviate her chronic pain.
• Meaning: Open to more than one interpretation; having a double meaning.
• Example: The ending of the movie was ambiguous, leaving the audience to speculate.
• Meaning: Enough or more than enough; plentiful.
• Example: They had ample time to prepare for the exam.
• Meaning: Extremely surprising or impressive; amazing.
• Example: Her performance was astonishing, earning her a standing ovation.
• Meaning: To cause (someone) to become perplexed and confused.
• Example: The complex instructions bewildered everyone in the room.
• Meaning: Burning brightly and strongly.
• Example: The blazing sun made it a perfect day for the beach.
• Meaning: Extremely happy; full of joy.
• Example: They spent a blissful afternoon in the park, enjoying the sunshine and each other’s company.
• Meaning: Noisy, energetic, and cheerful; rowdy.
• Example: The children were boisterous as they played in the yard.
• Meaning: Unlimited or immense.
• Example: She had a boundless enthusiasm for learning new things.
• Meaning: Active, fast, and energetic.
• Example: They went for a brisk walk in the crisp autumn air.
• Meaning: Showing deep unhappiness of thought.
• Example: He sat by the window, brooding over his recent breakup.
• Meaning: Capable of attracting and holding interest; charming.
• Example: The story was so captivating that she couldn’t put the book down.
• Meaning: In a state of complete confusion and disorder.
• Example: The airport was chaotic with travelers rushing to make their flights.
• Meaning: Exercising a compelling charm which inspires devotion in others.
• Example: The charismatic leader easily won the support of the crowd.
• Meaning: Delighted greatly; enchanted.
• Example: She felt charmed by the quaint little village and its friendly residents.
• Meaning: The quality of being clear, in particular.
• Example: The clarity of the lake water was remarkable, allowing them to see the bottom.
• Meaning: Extremely large or great.
• Example: The ancient ruins were a colossal testament to the civilization’s grandeur.
• Meaning: Evoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerfully irresistible way.
• Example: Her argument was compelling and convinced everyone in the room.
• Meaning: To cause surprise or confusion in (someone), especially by acting against their expectations.
• Example: The unexpected turn of events confounded everyone involved.
• Meaning: Standing out so as to be clearly visible.
• Example: Her red coat made her conspicuous in the crowd.
• Meaning: To look thoughtfully for a long time at.
• Example: He sat on the bench, contemplating the beauty of the sunset.
• Meaning: A confusing and difficult problem or question.
• Example: Solving this conundrum required a lot of creative thinking.
• Meaning: Giving a feeling of comfort, warmth, and relaxation.
• Example: They spent the evening in a cozy cabin by the fire.
• Meaning: (of a substance) firm, dry, and brittle, especially in a way considered pleasing or attractive.
• Example: The crisp autumn leaves crunched under their feet as they walked.
• Meaning: Having a meaning that is mysterious or obscure.
• Example: He left a cryptic message that no one could understand.
• Meaning: Extremely bright, especially so as to blind the eyes temporarily.
• Example: The fireworks display was dazzling, lighting up the night sky.
• Meaning: In an acutely disturbed state of mind resulting from illness or intoxication and characterized by restlessness, illusions, and incoherence.
• Example: He was delirious with fever and needed immediate medical attention.
• Meaning: Having or showing care and conscientiousness in one’s work or duties.
• Example: She was diligent in her studies and always turned in her assignments on time.
• Meaning: Careful and circumspect in one’s speech or actions, especially in order to avoid causing offense or to gain an advantage.
• Example: He was discreet in handling the sensitive information.
• Meaning: Depressing; dreary.
• Example: The weather was dismal, with constant rain and grey skies.
• Meaning: Far away in space or time.
• Example: The distant mountains were barely visible through the haze.
• Meaning: (of a person or their behavior) unconventional and slightly strange.
• Example: His eccentric behavior made him the talk of the town.
• Meaning: (of a liquid) giving off bubbles; fizzy.
• Example: Her effervescent personality made her the life of the party.
• Meaning: Ecstatically happy.
• Example: She was elated when she received the job offer.
• Meaning: Filled with delight; charmed.
• Example: The enchanted forest was like something out of a fairy tale.
• Meaning: An attempt to achieve a goal.
• Example: Their endeavor to climb the mountain was fraught with challenges.
• Meaning: Difficult to interpret or understand; mysterious.
• Example: Her smile was enigmatic, leaving him wondering what she was thinking.
• Meaning: Capturing and holding one’s attention; fascinating.
• Example: The magician’s performance was enthralling, leaving the audience in awe.
• Meaning: Lasting for a very short time.
• Example: The beauty of the sunset was ephemeral, fading quickly into the night.
• Meaning: Extremely beautiful and, typically, delicate.
• Example: The artist’s work was exquisite, with fine details that took your breath away.
• Meaning: Extraordinary, especially extraordinarily large.
• Example: They lived in a fabulous mansion with stunning views of the ocean.
• Meaning: Imaginative and fanciful; unrealistic.
• Example: The story was filled with fantastical creatures and magical adventures.
• Meaning: Lacking physical strength, especially as a result of age or illness.
• Example: The old man’s voice was feeble, barely audible over the noise.
• Meaning: Having or displaying an intense or ferocious aggressiveness.
• Example: The fierce competition kept everyone on their toes.
• Example: They shared a fleeting glance before going their separate ways.
• Meaning: To grow or develop in a healthy or vigorous way.
• Example: The small business began to flourish after the new marketing strategy was implemented.
• Meaning: (of an object) easily broken or damaged.
• Example: The fragile vase shattered into pieces when it fell.
• Meaning: Distraught with fear, anxiety, or other emotion.
• Example: She made a frantic call to the police when she realized her child was missing.
• Meaning: Shining with a sparkling light.
• Example: The morning dew left the grass glistening under the sun.
• Meaning: Characterized by elegance or beauty of form, manner, movement, or speech.
• Example: The dancer moved in a graceful manner across the stage.
• Meaning: Fond of company; sociable.
• Example: The gregarious student made friends quickly in her new school.
• Meaning: Causing repulsion or horror; grisly.
• Example: The movie was so gruesome that many viewers left the theater.
• Meaning: Lacking any obvious principle of organization.
• Example: The books were stacked in a haphazard fashion on the table.
• Meaning: Forming a pleasing or consistent whole.
• Example: The choir’s harmonious singing captivated the audience.
• Meaning: Poignant and evocative; difficult to ignore or forget.
• Example: The haunting melody lingered in my mind long after the concert ended.
• Meaning: Sincere; deeply and strongly felt.
• Example: She gave a heartfelt apology for her mistakes.
• Meaning: Requiring great strength or effort.
• Example: Moving the heavy furniture was a herculean task.
• Meaning: Tentative, unsure, or slow in acting or speaking.
• Example: She was hesitant to share her opinion in the meeting.
• Meaning: Having a calm and still silence.
• Example: The room was hushed as the judge entered.
• Meaning: Extremely happy, peaceful, or picturesque.
• Example: They spent a week in an idyllic cottage by the lake.
• Meaning: Providing insight, clarity, or light.
• Example: The professor’s lecture was illuminating and helped us understand the topic better.
• Meaning: Perfectly clean, neat, or tidy.
• Example: She kept her house in immaculate condition.
• Meaning: Grand and impressive in appearance.
• Example: The castle was an imposing structure on the hill.
• Meaning: Emitting light as a result of being heated; full of strong emotion.
• Example: Her incandescent smile brightened the room.
• Meaning: Impossible to subdue or defeat.
• Example: The indomitable spirit of the athletes inspired everyone.
• Meaning: Having a tendency to be overly generous to or lenient with someone.
• Example: The indulgent parents allowed their children to stay up late.
• Meaning: Curious or inquiring.
• Example: The inquisitive child asked endless questions about the world.
• Meaning: Impossible to satisfy.
• Example: She had an insatiable appetite for knowledge.
• Meaning: Proceeding in a gradual, subtle way, but with harmful effects.
• Example: The insidious disease spread without any obvious symptoms.
• Meaning: Having the effect of inspiring someone.
• Example: The speech was inspiring and motivated everyone to take action.
• Meaning: Fearless; adventurous.
• Example: The intrepid explorer ventured into the unknown wilderness.
• Meaning: Very complicated or detailed.
• Example: The artist created an intricate design on the pottery.
• Meaning: Feeling or expressing great happiness and triumph.
• Example: The team was jubilant after winning the championship.
• Meaning: Displaying or having a disinclination for physical exertion or effort; slow and relaxed.
• Example: The hot, languid afternoon made everyone feel sleepy.
• Meaning: Full of or shedding light; bright or shining, especially in the dark.
• Example: The luminous stars lit up the night sky.
• Meaning: Growing luxuriantly.
• Example: The garden was filled with lush greenery and colorful flowers.
• Meaning: Having or showing impressive beauty or dignity.
• Example: The majestic mountains towered over the landscape.
• Meaning: Causing great wonder; extraordinary.
• Example: The fireworks display was absolutely marvelous.
• Meaning: A feeling of pensive sadness, typically with no obvious cause.
• Example: The melancholic tune of the song made me feel nostalgic.
• Meaning: Capturing one’s complete attention as if by magic.
• Example: The dancer’s performance was mesmerizing and held the audience spellbound.
• Meaning: Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise.
• Example: He was meticulous in his research, ensuring every detail was accurate.
• Meaning: Full of mirth; merry or amusing.
• Example: The mirthful laughter of the children filled the playground.
• Meaning: Difficult or impossible to understand, explain, or identify.
• Example: The mysterious disappearance of the keys baffled everyone.
• Meaning: In the form of a cloud or haze; hazy.
• Example: His plans for the future were still nebulous and unclear.
• Meaning: (Typically of an action or activity) wicked or criminal.
• Example: The villain’s nefarious scheme was eventually uncovered by the hero.
• Meaning: Feeling, evoking, or characterized by nostalgia.
• Example: Looking at old photos always made her feel nostalgic.
• Meaning: Not discovered or known about; uncertain.
• Example: The meaning of the ancient text was obscure to modern scholars.
• Meaning: Ostentatiously rich and luxurious or lavish.
• Example: The opulent mansion was filled with priceless artwork and luxurious furniture.
• Meaning: Seemingly absurd or self-contradictory.
• Example: It is paradoxical that standing is more tiring than walking.
• Meaning: Strange or odd; unusual.
• Example: There was a peculiar smell in the room that no one could identify.
• Meaning: Full of danger or risk.
• Example: The journey through the mountains was perilous due to the steep cliffs and unpredictable weather.
• Meaning: Very remarkable; extraordinary.
• Example: The athlete’s performance was phenomenal, breaking several records.
• Meaning: Not easily upset or excited; calm and peaceful.
• Example: The placid lake was a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.
• Meaning: Evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret.
• Example: The poignant film brought tears to the eyes of many viewers.
• Meaning: In its original condition; unspoiled.
• Example: The pristine beaches of the island attracted tourists from around the world.
• Meaning: Remarkably or impressively great in extent, size, or degree.
• Example: The prodigious talent of the young musician amazed everyone.
• Meaning: Very great or intense; having or showing great knowledge or insight.
• Example: The philosopher’s words were profound and thought-provoking.
• Meaning: Sending out light; shining or glowing brightly.
• Example: She looked radiant in her wedding dress.
• Meaning: Uncontrollably exuberant; boisterous.
• Example: The rambunctious children played noisily in the yard.
• Meaning: Delightful; entrancing.
• Example: She looked ravishing in her evening gown.
• Meaning: Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
• Example: The resilient community rebuilt their homes after the flood.
• Meaning: Attractive and impressive through being richly colorful or sumptuous.
• Example: The garden was resplendent with a variety of beautiful flowers.
• Meaning: Feeling or showing deep and solemn respect.
• Example: The audience was reverent during the solemn ceremony.
• Meaning: Extravagantly emotional; rapturous.
• Example: The poet’s rhapsodic description of the sunset was captivating.
• Meaning: Strong and healthy; vigorous.
• Example: The robust economy showed no signs of slowing down.
• Meaning: Optimistic or positive, especially in an apparently bad or difficult situation.
• Example: Despite the setbacks, she remained sanguine about the project’s success.
• Meaning: Sparkling or shining brightly; brilliantly and excitingly clever or skillful.
• Example: The scintillating performance by the actor earned him a standing ovation.
• Meaning: Calm, peaceful, and untroubled; tranquil.
• Example: The serene landscape provided a perfect backdrop for meditation.
• Meaning: Giving the impression that something harmful or evil is happening or will happen.
• Example: The abandoned house had a sinister look about it.
• Meaning: Smooth and glossy; streamlined.
• Example: The sleek design of the new car made it very appealing.
• Meaning: Done or existing alone.
• Example: He enjoyed solitary walks in the park.
• Meaning: Dark or dull in color or tone; gloomy.
• Example: The somber atmosphere at the funeral reflected the deep grief of the family.
• Meaning: Beautiful in a dramatic and eye-catching way.
• Example: The fireworks display was a spectacular end to the evening.
• Meaning: Holding one’s attention completely as though by magic; fascinating.
• Example: The magician’s spellbinding tricks left the audience in awe.
• Meaning: Performed or occurring as a result of a sudden inner impulse or inclination and without premeditation or external stimulus.
• Example: The crowd broke into spontaneous applause.
• Meaning: Of such excellence, grandeur, or beauty as to inspire great admiration or awe.
• Example: The artist’s sublime work left viewers speechless.
• Meaning: Having the qualities of surrealism; bizarre.
• Example: The surreal landscape looked like something out of a dream.
• Meaning: Tending to keep a firm hold of something; clinging or adhering closely.
• Example: The tenacious detective refused to give up on the case.
• Meaning: Very weak or slight.
• Example: The tenuous connection between the two events was hard to prove.
• Meaning: Causing excitement and pleasure; exhilarating.
• Example: The roller coaster ride was a thrilling experience.
• Meaning: Free from disturbance; calm.
• Example: The tranquil garden was a perfect place to relax.
• Meaning: Beyond or above the range of normal or merely physical human experience.
• Example: The view from the mountaintop was a transcendent experience.
• Meaning: Shaking or quivering slightly; timid or nervous.
• Example: Her tremulous voice betrayed her fear during the interview.
• Meaning: Not giving way to pressure; hard or solid.
• Example: His unyielding determination helped him achieve his goals.
• Meaning: Possessing or showing courage or determination.
• Example: The valiant soldiers fought bravely in the battle.
• Meaning: Full of energy and enthusiasm.
• Example: The vibrant city life was a stark contrast to the quiet countryside.
• Meaning: Experienced in the imagination through the feelings or actions of another person.
• Example: She felt a vicarious thrill watching her friend perform on stage.
• Meaning: Strong, healthy, and full of energy.
• Example: He led a vigorous workout session at the gym.
• Meaning: Attractively lively and animated.
• Example: Her vivacious personality made her the life of the party.
• Meaning: Playfully quaint or fanciful, especially in an appealing and amusing way.
• Example: The whimsical decorations at the party delighted the children.
• Meaning: Attractive or appealing in appearance or character.
• Example: Her winsome smile won over everyone she met.
• Meaning: Having or showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing.
• Example: He had a wistful look in his eyes as he reminisced about his childhood.
• Meaning: Inspiring a feeling of wonder or delight; marvelous.
• Example: The wondrous sight of the Northern Lights left us speechless.
• Meaning: Having or showing zeal; fervent.
• Example: The zealous advocate worked tirelessly for the cause.
• Meaning: A soft gentle breeze.
• Example: The zephyr from the ocean brought a refreshing coolness to the air.
• Meaning: Characterized by great enthusiasm and energy.
• Example: She approached every challenge with a zestful attitude.
• Meaning: Clever or skillful in using the hands or mind.
• Example: The adroit artist created a masterpiece with just a few brushstrokes.
• Meaning: Brisk and cheerful readiness.
• Example: She accepted the invitation with alacrity, eager to join the event.
• Meaning: Something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.
• Example: The scientist noted the anomaly in the data, which indicated a potential discovery.
• Meaning: Understood by few; mysterious or secret.
• Example: The professor’s lecture on arcane topics fascinated the curious students.
• Meaning: Showing a willingness to take surprisingly bold risks.
• Example: The audacious explorer ventured into uncharted territory.
• Meaning: Well-meaning and kindly.
• Example: The benevolent philanthropist donated millions to charity.
• Meaning: Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior.
• Example: The capricious weather made it difficult to plan the picnic.
• Meaning: Providing psychological relief through the open expression of strong emotions.
• Example: Writing in her journal had a cathartic effect, helping her release pent-up feelings.
• Meaning: Kept secret or done secretively, especially because illicit.
• Example: The clandestine meeting was held at midnight to avoid detection.
• Meaning: Come together to form one mass or whole.
• Example: The different factions coalesced to form a united front.
• Meaning: Confident, stylish, and charming.
• Example: The debonair gentleman captivated everyone at the party with his charm.
• Meaning: Fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing.
• Example: Her eloquent speech moved the audience to tears.
• Meaning: Showing or giving emphasis; expressing something forcibly and clearly.
• Example: He was emphatic in his refusal to participate in the scheme.
• Meaning: Filled with or characterized by a lively energy and excitement.
• Example: The children were exuberant as they ran around the playground.
• Meaning: Well-chosen or suited to the circumstances.
• Example: Her felicitous remarks during the meeting impressed her colleagues.
• Meaning: Intelligently analytical and clear-thinking.
• Example: His incisive analysis of the situation revealed the root of the problem.
• Meaning: Too great or extreme to be expressed or described in words.
• Example: The beauty of the sunset was ineffable, leaving them speechless.
• Meaning: Thin, supple, and graceful.
• Example: The lithe dancer moved with effortless grace across the stage.
• Meaning: Knowing everything.
• Example: The novel was narrated by an omniscient narrator who knew the thoughts and feelings of all the characters.
• Meaning: Having or showing sensitive insight.
• Example: Her perceptive comments during the discussion showed her deep understanding of the topic.
• Meaning: Representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class.
• Example: The painting is the quintessential example of the artist’s early work.
• Meaning: Having or showing keen mental discernment and good judgment; wise or shrewd.
• Example: The sagacious leader was admired for his wise decisions and strategic thinking.
• Meaning: Occurring or discovered by chance in a happy or beneficial way.
• Example: Their meeting was serendipitous, leading to a long-lasting friendship.
• Meaning: Loyal, reliable, and hardworking.
• Example: The stalwart soldiers stood firm in the face of danger.
• Meaning: Unnecessary, especially through being more than enough.
• Example: The report was filled with superfluous details that did not contribute to the main argument.
• Meaning: Vigorous or incisive in expression or style.
• Example: Her trenchant commentary on social issues made her a respected columnist.
• Meaning: Incapable of being fully explored or understood.
• Example: The depth of the ocean seemed unfathomable to the sailors.

Creative Writing Words Infographic

Mastering creative writing words is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the exploration, have fun with language, and let your creativity flow! With dedication and practice, you’ll soon be wielding words with the confidence and skill of a true storyteller.

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Overused Words And Alternatives To Use Instead

Being a creative writer can be a lot of fun. Whether you’re writing novels, short stories, fan fiction, or even poetry, you can create worlds. Unfortunately, being a creative writer can also be really challenging. It’s not just difficult to imagine new things all the time—coming up with new and interesting ways to say things is also part of the challenge.

There are some words in creative writing that are terribly overused and common. Luckily, a good dictionary and thesaurus can work wonders on strengthening your writing.

So, we’ve rounded up some of the words writers most often use over and over. We’re not saying you should never use these words, but there are more interesting alternatives you might want to consider next time you sit down to write.

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Writing strong dialogue can be difficult. Not only is it hard to write as people talk, it’s hard to incorporate dialogue naturally into a narrative.

Writers typically default to the straightforward verb said to indicate dialogue. This is not always a problem; readers tend to skim over the word without noticing its overuse. However, said isn’t always the only (or best) word you can use. For example:

He said, “She is really smart.”

She said, “No, she is not.”

He said, “Yes, she is.”

Zzzz … snoozefest.

There are lots of good alternatives for said to make dialogue a lot more dynamic and engaging. For example, you could substitute said with a verb like:

• articulated

Check out that same dialogue (from above) with our new words:

He asserted, “She is really smart.”

She retorted, “No, she is not.”

He concluded, “Yes, she is.”

OK, still not the most exciting dialogue ever, but you get the point.

Another verb that can be quickly overused in creative writing is moved .

It’s the most bread-and-butter word to express that a character is doing some kind of action. But, like said , it can get really boring. Not only that, it’s not as descriptive as some alternative verbs, such as:

The word moved can serve an important purpose, but if you find yourself using it too many times, try one of these instead.

Amazing is an amazing word. And it’s  so amazing how many amazing uses it has.

Is your head spinning yet? Do you really understand what we’re trying to say?

Amazing has the distinction of being not only an overused word in creative writing, but also in daily life.

While amazing initially referred to something that causes astonishment or wonderment, now it is used to refer to anything a notch up from “just OK.”

If you find yourself reaching for this adjective, try to drill down and really think about what you’re trying to express. Some alternatives are:

• unbelievable

Very is a modifier that we use all the time in daily life, no problem-o. On the page, though, very is kind of flat. It’s an adverb that’s used for emphasis, but if it’s overused it loses some of its punch.

Instead of using very a hundred million times in your creative writing (and definitely don’t use it more than once in a row, like “this is very, very, very boring”), there are tons of other alternatives you can use for emphasis. Some of our favorites adverbs are:

That said, sometimes it’s enough to let the narrative speak for itself. If you’re tempted to use a modifier for emphasis, go back over the sentence and ask yourself if it’s truly necessary. Sometimes a light touch, like  very , can actually be best.

Love is a wonderful thing. We love love. Who doesn’t?

But love is a word whose meaning is notoriously hard to pin down. When you’re writing about feelings of great affection, romantic or otherwise, love might seem like an obvious word to use. But we recommend using the word love sparingly, like nutmeg. Or salt. Love can be either a noun or a verb. If you’re using love as a noun, such as “I felt a strong feeling of love,” consider some of the following alternatives:

• infatuation
• appreciation

If you’re using love as a verb, as in “I love you,” we recommend some of these alternatives:

• be attached to

There’s nothing wrong with the classic love , but consider some of these options next time you put pen to paper.

Look is another basic verb that is often overused, similar to said and moved . In boring writing, characters are always just looking, whether at objects or each other.

But there are so many more exciting ways to describe someone experiencing something via sight.

For example, there are verbs like:

fAh, thing. We’ve saved the worst for last. No offense to The Thing , thing is like a lead balloon in the middle of a story.

We have an entire thesaurus (and dictionary of course) full of thousands of vibrant, specific, interesting words to replace the imprecise, overworked noun thing .

Next time you find yourself describing something as a thing , take another pass at it. Dig in deep and use a word that really conveys what you’re talking about. Consider if the thing you’re referring to is an emotion, a particular object, or an idea and, then, name it.

The thesaurus is your friend. Don’t hesitate to pull it up and take a look around to find the bon mot , the just-right word or expression, to take the place of thing .

Ways To Say

Synonym of the day

KathySteinemann.com: Free Resources for Writers

Word lists, cheat sheets, and sometimes irreverent reviews of writing rules. kathy steinemann is the author of the writer's lexicon series..

200+ Ways to Say “Beautiful”: A Word List for Writers

Too Many Instances of Beautiful in Your Prose or Poetry Will Dilute Its Effectiveness

The rainbow is beautiful .

Look at that beautiful woman.

This dress is beautiful .

If you resort to beautiful more than a handful of times throughout a novel, dialogue excluded, your writing will suffer.

At the bottom of this post, you’ll find more than 200 alternatives for beautiful . Don’t merely plug in substitutions. Try using the suggestions as catalysts to transform the words into verbs or nouns.

Consider This Sentence

Helen was beautiful .

Let’s pick a few words from the list and do a rewrite.

Helen’s ethereal poise tantalized every suitor who bowed the knee before her.

Here’s the List

A adorable, alluring, amazing, angelic, appealing, arresting, astonishing, astounding, attractive, awe-inspiring, awesome

B beauteous, bedazzling, beguiling, bewitching, bodacious, bonny, boundless, breathtaking

C captivating, celestial, charming, chaste, cherubic, come-hither, comely, compelling, consummate, coquettish, cosmopolitan, curvaceous, cute

D dazzling, delectable, delicious, delightful, desirable, disarming, divine, dreamy, dumbfounding, dynamic

E electrifying, elegant, empyrean, enchanting, endearing, engaging, enrapturing, enthralling, enticing, entrancing, ethereal, exceptional, exciting, exotic, exquisite, extraordinary, eye -catching

F fabulous, fair, fascinating, fetching, fiery, fine, flabbergasting, flaming, flawless, flirtatious, formidable, foxy

G and H genteel, genuine, glamorous, glittering, glorious, glowing, good-looking, gorgeous, gracious, gripping, handsome, heady, heavenly, hot, hypnotic

I immeasurable, impeccable, impersonal, imposing, incomparable, inconceivable, incredible, indescribable, inescapable, inexorable, infinite, inimitable, intoxicating, intriguing, inviting, irresistible

J to L jaw-dropping, knockout, limitless, lissome, lovely, luminous, luscious, lush, lustrous

M magical, magnetic, magnificent, majestic, matchless, measureless, mesmerizing, mind-boggling, momentous, mouth -watering, mysterious, mystical

N and O noble, nonpareil, opulent, otherworldly, outstanding, overpowering, overwhelming

P paralyzing, peerless, perfect, perky, personable, phenomenal, picture-perfect, picturesque, pleasing, poised, polished, potent, prepossessing, pretty, pristine, provocative, pure

R radiant, rapturous, rare, ravishing, recherché, red-hot, refined, regal, remarkable, resplendent

S saintly, salacious, scorching, seductive, sensational, sensuous, seraphic, serene, sexy , singular, slinky, smoking, sophisticated, sparkling, spectacular, spectral, spellbinding, spine-tingling, splendid, splendiferous, splendorous, staggering, stately, statuesque, striking, stunning, stupefying, stylish, sublime, sui generis, sultry, sunny, superior, supreme, surreal, sweet

T taking, tantalizing, teasing, tempting, thrilling, titillating, torrid, transcendent, transcendental, transfixing

U unbelievable, uncanny, unearthly, unequalled, unimaginable, unique, unprecedented, unrivaled, unsurpassed, untold

V and W vivacious, voluptuous, wholesome, willowy, winning, winsome, wondrous

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15 thoughts on “ 200+ Ways to Say “Beautiful”: A Word List for Writers ”

My favourite word here refers to Lucy Westenra, the “Bloofer Lady” seduced by Count Dracula.

Hi, Peter. Which word?

I only had twelve of these, this time, but I still managed to cut five of them. Thanks, as always!

Kewl! It sounds like you’re busy–the best way to be, right?

A hushed silence as she entered the room. I will use this phrase as a replacement for beautiful.

Excellent, Narendra. This shows the effect she has on others as she enters–a good alternative.

Pulchritudinous – not a very beautiful word, but it means ‘great physical beauty and appeal’. Concupiscent – a word I’ve always liked.

Thanks, Peter. Interesting adjectives. However, will they send readers scrambling for their dictionaries? Nowadays many have problems with the simplest of words. 🙂 Used for the right pieces, though, they could lend atmosphere. I’ll add them to my master list for the book that will come out someday.

Yes Kathy. I had to resort to the dictionary when I first read them about 30years ago. I can’t remember where I read them, but I still remember the definitions.

The word beautiful is so overused, it doesn’t mean anything anymore. It’s not in my dictionary. 🙂

Oh, you beautiful person, you. Uh … you inventive, creative, gifted writer. 😉 Beautiful doesn’t mean anything anymore, does it?

Great list! However, I felt “coquettish” and “flirtatious” did not belong here. I suppose they describe beauty in a negative sense though. On that note, maybe…

Thank-you for the comment, Ohita.

Sometimes coquettish and flirtatious would be considered negative. However, if you’re a guy, and a girl is looking at you with a coquettish expression, you might find it appealing. 😉 Words can have different connotations when viewed in context with surroundings and circumstances.

From a man’s point of view, they can all be replaced by WOW.

Ha ha! Never thought of it that way, Trevor.

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Last updated on Dec 02, 2021

270+ Other Words For "Said" To Supercharge Your Writing

About the author.

Reedsy's editorial team is a diverse group of industry experts devoted to helping authors write and publish beautiful books.

About Martin Cavannagh

Head of Content at Reedsy, Martin has spent over eight years helping writers turn their ambitions into reality. As a voice in the indie publishing space, he has written for a number of outlets and spoken at conferences, including the 2024 Writers Summit at the London Book Fair.

If you've read our previous post on writing dialogue , you'll know that you shouldn't be afraid to default to he said , she said , or they said  when you're tagging your dialogue. After all, it's probably the clearest, least distracting way to indicate who's saying what. That being said, it can be useful to deploy a specific and powerful dialogue tag every now and again. 

Which dialogue tag are YOU?

Find out in just a minute.

To help you find that perfect synonym to inject action and emotion into your dialogue, here are over 270 other words for said:

Neutral/multi-purpose words

Happy/excited words , sad/upset words , angry words , annoyed words, frightened/pained words, prideful words.

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Words to express uncertainty

Words that make fun, words that ask a question, words that give an answer, download this 'greatest hits' list.

For this infographic, we've narrowed down the 270 most essential dialogue words for you to know! Simply enter your email below to get it in your inbox within minutes.

FREE RESOURCE

Get our Dialogue Tag Cheatsheet

Upgrade your dialogue with our list of 270 alternatives to “said.”

To see how master writers assemble their dialogue, head over to our final post in this series for some choice examples of dialogue.

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