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词汇丰富度(vocabulary range)指你在写作中所用词语的广度和多样性。词汇丰富并不意味着塞进一堆生僻词来让读者刮目相看,而是从一组多样、精确、得体的词语中做选择,让你的文章保持新鲜、吸引人而且准确。本节教你识别自己的词汇面什么时候太窄,以及重复什么时候越过了界线,从可以接受变成了问题。
每一套写作评估框架——IELTS、TOEFL、AP English、学术评分标准、商务沟通规范——都看重词汇丰富度。原因很实际,并非随意规定:用词多样的作者表明,他们能精确地表达想法,能根据语境调整语言,还能抓住读者的注意力。
词汇面狭窄会造成三个问题:
单调。 反复读到同样的词令人厌倦。因为没有新东西刺激读者的头脑,他们的注意力就会逐渐涣散。
显得能力有限。 不管公平与否,读者会根据纸面上语言的丰富程度来判断作者的水平。一篇文章里把 "important" 重复七次,就等于在告诉读者:作者要么不知道还有别的说法,要么懒得修改。
失去精确性。 不同的情形需要不同的词。什么都用 "good"——a good argument、a good result、a good strategy——就抹掉了 compelling(有说服力的)、favorable(有利的)和 effective(有效的)这几种事物之间的区别。读者就失去了其中的细微差别。
并不是所有重复都是坏事。要提高词汇丰富度而又不矫枉过正,理解两者的区别至关重要。
关键术语和专业词汇。 如果你在写 photosynthesis(光合作用),那么每次你指的是它,就应该用 photosynthesis 这个词。为了避免重复这个术语而换成 "the green process" 或 "the plant energy mechanism",只会造成混乱,而不是显得优雅。任何专业术语都是如此:inflation、algorithm、democracy、thesis statement。
修辞性重复。 为了强调或节奏而刻意重复,是一种文体选择,而不是缺陷:
We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets.
这里 "we shall fight" 的重复正是全部要义所在。它营造出力量和节奏。
功能词。 the、a、is、are、in、of、and、to、that 和 it 这类词是英语结构上的黏合剂。它们在任何一个段落里都会出现几十次,这完全正常。没有读者会注意到或在乎 "the" 在一页上出现了 15 次。
实词使用过度。 一个承载实际意义的名词、动词、形容词或副词出现得太频繁,就说明词汇面有限。500 词里用了 8 次 "important" 就是问题。10 个句子里有 6 个用了 "develop" 或 "development" 也是问题。
词根重复。 在很近的距离内使用同一个词根的不同形式:develop、development、developing、developed、developer——全都出现在同一段里。虽然严格来说它们各是不同的词,但都来自同一个词根,对读者的效果和重复同一个词一样。
语义重复。 用不同的词说同一个意思,常常出现在同一段甚至同一句里:
The economy grew and expanded rapidly, increasing at a fast pace.
"Grew"、"expanded" 和 "increasing" 表达的都是同一个概念。"Rapidly" 和 "at a fast pace" 说的也是同一回事。这个句子只说了一个意思,却用了三个意思的字数。
找出自己文章中的重复,最有效的办法是标记测试(highlight test)。做法如下:
通读你的文章,把出现超过两次的每一个实词都标出来(或画上下划线)。功能词(the, a, is, of 等)不用管。
看密度。 如果一个被标出的词在一个段落里出现三次或更多,或者在一篇 500 词的文章里出现五次或更多,就把它标记为需要修改。
检查同根词族。 留意相关形式扎堆出现的情况:analyze/analysis/analytical、effect/effective/effectively、significant/significance/significantly。把这些算作相关的重复。
评估必要性。 对每个被标记的词,问一问:这是一个无法替换的关键术语吗?如果是,就保留。如果不是,就找一个替代词。
下面是标记测试的实际运用示例:
Education is important for society. The importance of education cannot be overstated. It is important to invest in schools because they provide important skills. Without good education, people cannot get good jobs. A good education system is important for economic growth.
标记测试揭示出:
前两个显然需要修改。第三个是文章的话题,很难在不损失清晰度的情况下替换——不过偶尔可以用 "schooling"、"learning" 和 "academic training" 来代替。
并不是每个重复的词都需要改。用下面的指导原则来判断重复是否越过了阈值:
| 语境 | 阈值 | 处理办法 |
|---|---|---|
| 同一个实词出现在一个段落里(约 100 词) | 3 次及以上 | 修改:至少为其中一半找到替代词 |
| 同一个实词出现在整篇文章里(约 500 词) | 5 次及以上 | 修改:替换大多数非必要的重复 |
| 同一个同根词族出现在一个段落里 | 2 种及以上不同形式 | 修改:要么换词,要么变换句子结构 |
| 话题关键词(论点、主要话题) | 没有严格限制 | 可以接受,但可以考虑偶尔用同义词或代词 |
| 功能词(the, is, of, and) | 没有限制 | 从来不是问题 |
这些阈值是指导原则,不是死板的规则。一篇 2,000 词、研究气候变化的论文自然会几十次用到 "climate",这很恰当。但如果同一篇论文用了 12 次 "significant",那就是词汇丰富度的问题,因为 significant 不是话题——它是一个描述词,而且有很多替代词(notable、substantial、considerable、meaningful、marked)。
要问的关键问题始终是:这个词是否有现成的替代词,而我却没有用上?
了解重复的三种类型,能帮助你更精确地诊断自己的文章。
同一个词用了很多次:
The problem with this approach is that it creates new problems. These problems are difficult to solve because the original problem was never properly defined.
诊断: "Problem/problems" 在 2 个句子里出现了 4 次。替代词:issue、challenge、difficulty、complication、obstacle、shortcoming。
同一个词的不同形式:
The development of new technology has developed rapidly. Developers continue to develop innovative solutions, and this developmental progress shows no signs of slowing.
诊断: 2 个句子里出现了 "develop" 的五种形式。尽管严格来说这些词各不相同,但它们造成了一种嗡嗡作响般的单调效果。混入一些替代词:advancement、creation、engineers/designers、build/create/innovate、evolutionary。
用不同的词表达同一个意思:
The new policy was beneficial and advantageous for the company. It helped the organization and was useful for improving performance. The positive effects were favorable for all departments.
诊断: 每个句子说的都是同一件事——"the policy was good for the company"——只是每次换了个说法。这不是词汇丰富,而是凑字数。用最精确的词说一次,然后接着往下写。
看看在不同的写作语境中,重复怎样影响读者:
学术写作:
冗长重复: The study shows that exercise shows benefits. Previous research also shows similar results. Our data shows a clear pattern.
用词多样: The study demonstrates that exercise offers benefits. Previous research corroborates these findings. Our data reveals a clear pattern.
修改后的版本听起来更有学术味,因为每个动词都带着略有不同的意思:demonstrates 暗示有证据,corroborates 暗示得到证实,reveals 暗示有所发现。
商务写作:
重复: We need to improve our processes. Improving efficiency will improve our bottom line. Process improvement is a priority.
用词多样: We need to streamline our processes. Enhancing efficiency will strengthen our bottom line. Operational optimization is a priority.
修改后传达的信息相同,但听起来更有权威,也展示出对商务词汇的驾驭能力。
一般写作:
重复: The movie was interesting. The plot was interesting because it had interesting twists. I found the characters interesting too.
用词多样: The movie was compelling. The plot was gripping because of its unexpected twists. I found the characters well-developed and layered.
修改后,一个含糊、用滥了的词被换成了具体的替代词,这些词真正向读者传达了有意义的信息。
| 概念 | 要点 |
|---|---|
| 词汇丰富度 | 使用多样、精确的词——而不是卖弄生僻词 |
| 可以接受的重复 | 关键术语、修辞性强调、功能词 |
| 有问题的重复 | 实词在没有必要的情况下过度重复 |
| 标记测试 | 给重复的实词画线;标出超过阈值的词 |
| 频率阈值 | 非话题词:一段中 3 次及以上,500 词中 5 次及以上 |
| 三种类型 | 原词重复、词根重复、语义重复 |
| 对读者的影响 | 单调、显得词汇有限、失去精确性 |
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找出文章中的重复之后,下一步就是用恰当的替代词替换重复的词。这听起来简单,但草率地替换同义词是写作者最常犯的错误之一。一本同义词词典可以为一个词提供 20 个替代词,但其中真正适合你这个具体句子的只有两三个。本节教你每次都选对同义词——并且能认出什么时候根本不该用同义词。
看这个句子:
The company made a big profit last quarter.
同义词词典为 "big" 提供了这些同义词:large, enormous, substantial, considerable, immense, colossal, mammoth, gargantuan, tremendous, significant。
其中有些用起来恰到好处:
The company made a substantial profit last quarter.(自然,得体)
The company made a considerable profit last quarter.(自然,得体)
The company made a significant profit last quarter.(自然,得体)
而另一些听起来就很荒唐:
The company made a mammoth profit last quarter.(过于夸张)
The company made a gargantuan profit last quarter.(听起来像恶搞)
The company made a colossal profit last quarter.(对商务语境来说言过其实)
好同义词和坏同义词的区别,归根结底取决于三个因素:隐含义、语域和搭配。
隐含义(connotation)是一个词在词典定义之外所带有的情感意义或联想意义。两个词可以有相同的基本意思(本义,denotation),给人的感觉却截然不同。
House / Home / Residence / Dwelling / Abode
| 词 | 本义 | 隐含义 |
|---|---|---|
| house | 人们居住的建筑 | 中性,客观 |
| home | 一个人生活的地方 | 温暖,私人,带感情 |
| residence | 居住的场所 | 正式,法律用语,不带个人色彩 |
| dwelling | 住的地方 | 略显古旧或偏专业 |
| abode | 居住的地方 | 文学化,老派 |
你会写 "I went home",而不会写 "I went to my abode."。在警方报告里你会写 "the suspect's residence",而不会写 "the suspect's home"(对法律语境来说太温情了)。
Cheap / Affordable / Inexpensive / Economical / Budget
| 词 | 隐含义 |
|---|---|
| cheap | 贬义——暗示质量低 |
| affordable | 褒义——暗示相对于收入物有所值 |
| inexpensive | 中性——只是表示价格低 |
| economical | 褒义——暗示花钱花得有效率 |
| budget | 中性到略带贬义——暗示价格低、质量一般 |
如果你在写产品评测,说一样东西 "cheap" 是在贬低它;说它 "affordable" 是在称赞它;说它 "inexpensive" 则是中性的。你选择的隐含义,塑造着读者的看法。
Thin / Slim / Slender / Skinny / Gaunt / Emaciated
| 词 | 隐含义 |
|---|---|
| thin | 中性 |
| slim | 褒义——暗示有吸引力 |
| slender | 褒义——暗示优雅 |
| skinny | 略带贬义——暗示太瘦 |
| gaunt | 贬义——暗示瘦得不健康 |
| emaciated | 强烈贬义——暗示饿得皮包骨 |
把 "thin" 换成 "gaunt" 不只是增加了变化——它彻底改变了意思。
替换同义词之前,先问:替换词带的情感色彩是否和原词一样? 如果原词是中性的,替换词也应该是中性的。如果原词是褒义的,替换词也应该是褒义的。
语域(register)指适合语境的正式程度。同一个概念可以用不同语域层级的词来表达:
| 非正式 | 中性 | 正式 | 非常正式 |
|---|---|---|---|
| kids | children | minors | juveniles |
| get | receive | obtain | procure |
| help | assist | aid | facilitate |
| ask | request | inquire | solicit |
| buy | purchase | acquire | procure |
| start | begin | commence | inaugurate |
| end | finish | conclude | terminate |
| enough | sufficient | adequate | satisfactory |
| fix | repair | rectify | remediate |
| tell | inform | notify | apprise |
| think | believe | consider | surmise |
| use | employ | utilize | leverage |
用了错误语域的词,会造成刺耳的效果:
学术论文: "The researchers got some interesting results."(太随意——用 "obtained")
随意的电子邮件: "I wish to apprise you of my weekend plans."(太正式——用 "tell" 或 "let you know")
商务报告: "We procured snacks for the meeting."(对这个语境来说太正式——用 "bought" 或 "ordered")
选择同义词时,要和原词的语域相匹配。如果你在写学术文章,觉得 "show" 这个词太随意,那么 "demonstrate" 或 "illustrate" 就是恰当的升级。但 "elucidate" 即使在学术写作中也可能过于正式,除非你身处一个高度专业化的领域。
搭配(collocation)指因约定俗成的用法而自然地组合在一起的词。有些词语组合听起来很自然;另一些则不然,即使单个词都没有错。
| 自然(正确) | 不自然(错误) | 原因 |
|---|---|---|
| make a decision | do a decision | "Make" 与 "decision" 搭配 |
| take a risk | make a risk | "Take" 与 "risk" 搭配 |
| pay attention | give attention | "Pay" 与 "attention" 搭配 |
| heavy rain | strong rain | "Heavy" 与 "rain" 搭配 |
| strong wind | heavy wind | "Strong" 与 "wind" 搭配 |
| fast food | quick food | "Fast" 与 "food" 搭配 |
| commit a crime | do a crime | "Commit" 与 "crime" 搭配 |
| raise a question | lift a question | "Raise" 与 "question" 搭配 |
| conduct research | make research | "Conduct" 与 "research" 搭配 |
| reach an agreement | arrive at an agreement | "Reach" 与 "agreement" 搭配("arrive at" 也不算错,但 "reach" 是标准说法) |
用同义词替换一个词时,必须检查这个同义词和周围的词搭配得是否自然:
原句: "The company achieved great success."
不好的替换: "The company attained great success."(说得通,但略显生硬)
更糟的替换: "The company procured great success."("Procure" 不与 "success" 搭配)
如果你不确定某个搭配听起来是否自然,就在网上或语料库里给这个短语加上引号搜索一下。如果搜到的结果很少,这个搭配很可能就不自然。
需要替换一个词时,用下面这套系统的方法:
第 1 步:确定核心意思。 原词在这个语境里到底表达的是什么?
第 2 步:列出 5–8 个替代词。 先从自己的词汇里找;同义词词典只用来唤起记忆。
第 3 步:按隐含义筛选。 剔除情感色彩不对的词。
第 4 步:按语域筛选。 剔除对你的语境来说太正式或太随意的词。
第 5 步:按搭配筛选。 检查剩下的词和句子其余部分搭配得是否自然。
第 6 步:选出最精确的。 在留下来的词里,挑出最准确地表达你本意的那一个。
在一篇辩论综述里:
原句: Dr. Park said that the policy was effective. Critics said it was not. The moderator said the evidence was mixed.
第 1 步: 核心意思 = 用言语表达。
第 2 步: 替代词:stated, argued, claimed, asserted, contended, noted, observed, maintained, remarked, declared, suggested, insisted。
第 3 步: 按隐含义筛选:
第 4 步: 学术语域——这些词都合适。
第 5 步: 这些词都能自然地接 "that" 从句。
第 6 步: 最好的修改:
Dr. Park argued that the policy was effective. Critics contended it was not. The moderator noted that the evidence was mixed.
现在每个动词都带有具体的意思:argued 暗示为某一方辩护,contended 暗示持反对意见,noted 暗示中立的观察。
替换同义词有时是错误的策略。要认出下面这些情况:
专业术语。 在一篇讨论 mitochondria(线粒体)的科学论文里,不要为了变化而换成 "powerhouse organelles"。术语就是术语。
论点中的关键概念。 如果你的文章主张 "resilience" 在教育中被低估了,"resilience" 就是你的关键词。换成 "toughness" 或 "persistence" 会让你的论证变得模糊,因为这些词的意思略有不同。
法律和合同语言。 在法律写作中,"shall" 和 "will" 各有特定而不同的含义。不要为了变化而用一个替换另一个。
已经确立的名称。 如果一份文件引入了 "Plan A" 和 "Plan B",后文就不要仅仅为了避免重复,而把它们称作 "the first option" 和 "the alternative proposal"。保持一致才能避免混淆。
当这个词必须保留时,改用下面这些技巧:
把一个具体的词换成一个更宽泛的类别词,或者反过来:
不要反复用 "Tesla": "The electric vehicle manufacturer..." / "The company..." / "The automaker..."
不要反复用 "dogs": "The animals..." / "These pets..." / "Golden retrievers, in particular,..."
在指代清楚的前提下,用代词或指示词替换名词:
重复: "The new policy will affect all employees. The new policy takes effect in January. The new policy requires monthly reporting."
用词多样: "The new policy will affect all employees. It takes effect in January and requires monthly reporting."
指示词的作用与此类似:
"The company announced a restructuring plan. This decision surprised many analysts."
有时你可以通过彻底改写句子来避免重复一个词:
重复: "The research shows clear results. More research is needed. Future research should focus on long-term effects."
改写后: "The research shows clear results, but further investigation is needed — particularly into long-term effects."
把三个句子合并成一个,你就消除了三处重复中的两处,而且只需要一个同义词。
| 概念 | 要点 |
|---|---|
| 同义词词典的危险 | 列出的大多数同义词都不适合你这个具体的句子 |
| 隐含义 | 词语在定义之外还带有情感联想 |
| 语域 | 正式程度必须与写作语境相匹配 |
| 搭配 | 有些词语组合听起来自然,另一些则不然 |
| 近义词阶梯 | 6 步流程:意思 → 列词 → 隐含义 → 语域 → 搭配 → 精确度 |
| 什么时候不该替换 | 专业术语、论点关键词、法律语言、已经确立的名称 |
| 其他策略 | 上位词、代词、指示词、改写句子 |
约7分钟阅读
本节提供实用的替换表和改写示例。把它们当作修改时的工具:先放开手写出初稿,再回到这里,为用滥了的词找到精确的替代词。每张表都按语境和正式程度排列替代词,让你能立刻选出合适的词。
| 替代词 | 最适合的用法 | 例子 |
|---|---|---|
| effective | 描述结果或方法 | an effective strategy for reducing costs |
| beneficial | 描述积极的影响 | beneficial effects on public health |
| valuable | 描述价值或用处 | a valuable contribution to the field |
| commendable | 称赞努力或品格 | a commendable effort by the team |
| proficient | 描述技能水平 | proficient in data analysis |
| favorable | 描述条件或结果 | favorable market conditions |
| advantageous | 描述策略上的好处 | an advantageous position for negotiation |
| exemplary | 描述出类拔萃的质量 | exemplary performance this quarter |
| sound | 描述逻辑或判断 | a sound argument supported by evidence |
| competent | 描述够用的能力 | a competent but unremarkable performance |
| 替代词 | 最适合的用法 | 例子 |
|---|---|---|
| detrimental | 描述有害的影响 | detrimental to long-term growth |
| inadequate | 描述不足 | inadequate funding for the project |
| flawed | 描述有缺陷的推理或设计 | a flawed methodology |
| problematic | 描述引发问题的事物 | a problematic assumption |
| substandard | 描述低于平均水平的质量 | substandard working conditions |
| adverse | 描述不利的条件 | adverse weather conditions |
| deficient | 描述欠缺 | deficient in key nutrients |
| unsatisfactory | 描述未达到预期 | unsatisfactory progress this semester |
| poor | 描述质量低(中性语气) | poor air quality in urban areas |
| counterproductive | 描述适得其反的做法 | a counterproductive approach to discipline |
| 替代词 | 最适合的用法 | 例子 |
|---|---|---|
| essential | 描述绝对的必要性 | essential for maintaining biodiversity |
| crucial | 描述关键时刻或关键决定 | a crucial turning point in the negotiations |
| significant | 描述显著的影响或规模 | a significant increase in enrollment |
| pivotal | 描述变化的关键时刻 | a pivotal role in the company's recovery |
| fundamental | 描述核心原则 | fundamental to democratic governance |
| paramount | 描述最高优先级 | Safety is paramount in construction |
| vital | 描述生死攸关或至关紧要的需要 | vital infrastructure for the community |
| critical | 描述紧迫性或重要性 | critical shortages in the supply chain |
| instrumental | 描述关键的作用或贡献 | instrumental in securing the partnership |
| indispensable | 描述不可或缺的事物 | an indispensable member of the team |
| 替代词 | 最适合的用法 | 例子 |
|---|---|---|
| compelling | 描述有说服力的内容 | a compelling argument for reform |
| noteworthy | 描述值得关注的事物 | a noteworthy discovery in the archives |
| intriguing | 描述引起好奇心的事物 | an intriguing pattern in the data |
| thought-provoking | 描述引人深思的内容 | a thought-provoking documentary |
| engaging | 描述能抓住注意力的内容 | an engaging presentation style |
| striking | 描述在视觉上或思想上引人注目的事物 | a striking contrast between the two policies |
| remarkable | 描述值得一提的事物 | a remarkable achievement for such a young researcher |
| fascinating | 描述浓厚的兴趣 | a fascinating case study in behavioral economics |
| 替代词 | 最适合的用法 | 例子 |
|---|---|---|
| factor | 描述原因或影响因素 | Several factors contributed to the decline |
| element | 描述一个系统的组成部分 | a key element of the proposal |
| aspect | 描述一个话题的某个方面 | an often-overlooked aspect of urban planning |
| component | 描述一个结构或计划的组成部分 | the core components of the curriculum |
| phenomenon | 描述可观察到的现象 | a well-documented phenomenon in psychology |
| consideration | 描述需要考虑的事项 | an important consideration for policymakers |
| issue | 描述令人关切的话题 | a pressing issue in modern healthcare |
| feature | 描述一个特征 | a distinctive feature of the architecture |
| variable | 描述可变的因素(研究) | controlling for all relevant variables |
| 替代词 | 最适合的用法 | 例子 |
|---|---|---|
| obtain | 正式的获得 | obtain permission from the ethics board |
| acquire | 获得所有权或技能 | acquire new competencies through training |
| receive | 被给予某物 | receive feedback from the instructor |
| achieve | 达成目标 | achieve a passing score on the examination |
| gain | 逐步积累 | gain experience in the field |
| secure | 经过努力或有保障地获得 | secure funding for the next fiscal year |
| earn | 凭努力赢得 | earn a reputation for reliability |
| attain | 达到某个水平或标准 | attain fluency in a second language |
| 替代词 | 最适合的用法 | 例子 |
|---|---|---|
| create | 产生新事物 | create opportunities for collaboration |
| develop | 逐步建立 | develop a comprehensive training program |
| establish | 正式设立 | establish clear guidelines for conduct |
| construct | 构建(实物或概念) | construct a persuasive argument |
| generate | 作为产出而产生 | generate revenue through new channels |
| produce | 制造或得出结果 | produce consistent results across trials |
| formulate | 经过周密思考而形成 | formulate a hypothesis based on observations |
| craft | 用技巧和心思打造 | craft a compelling narrative |
| Very + 形容词 | 更有力的替代词 |
|---|---|
| very big | enormous, immense, vast |
| very small | tiny, minute, minuscule |
| very tired | exhausted, fatigued |
| very happy | elated, overjoyed, delighted |
| very sad | devastated, despondent, grief-stricken |
| very angry | furious, irate, livid |
| very scared | terrified, petrified |
| very hungry | ravenous, famished, starving |
| very cold | freezing, frigid, bitter |
| very hot | scorching, sweltering, blistering |
| very fast | rapid, swift, breakneck |
| very slow | sluggish, glacial, lethargic |
| very smart | brilliant, astute, shrewd |
| very old | ancient, aged, venerable |
| very new | novel, cutting-edge, brand-new |
| very beautiful | stunning, gorgeous, exquisite |
| very difficult | arduous, formidable, grueling |
| very easy | effortless, straightforward, trivial |
| very clear | transparent, unmistakable, evident |
| very confusing | bewildering, perplexing, baffling |
| 替代词 | 最适合的用法 | 例子 |
|---|---|---|
| demonstrate | 用证据证明 | The data demonstrates a clear correlation |
| illustrate | 用例子说明 | This case illustrates the broader trend |
| reveal | 揭示隐藏的东西 | The audit revealed significant discrepancies |
| indicate | 指向一个结论 | Survey responses indicate widespread dissatisfaction |
| highlight | 让人注意到要点 | The report highlights three areas of concern |
| exhibit | 表现出某些特征 | The patient exhibited symptoms of fatigue |
| suggest | 暗示而不肯定 | Preliminary findings suggest a link |
| confirm | 证实一个假设 | The follow-up study confirmed the initial results |
| depict | 以图像或描述呈现 | The graph depicts the growth trajectory |
| 替代词 | 最适合的用法 | 例子 |
|---|---|---|
| numerous | 可数的事物(正式) | numerous studies have examined this topic |
| substantial | 不可数的数量 | substantial evidence supports the claim |
| considerable | 程度或数量 | considerable progress has been made |
| extensive | 范围或广度 | extensive research in this area |
| abundant | 供应充足 | abundant natural resources |
| significant | 可观的数量 | a significant number of respondents |
| ample | 绰绰有余 | ample time to complete the assignment |
| widespread | 分布广泛 | widespread support for the initiative |
不要反复使用一个词的同一种形式,而要用同一词族中不同的语法形式:
| 名词 | 动词 | 形容词 | 副词 |
|---|---|---|---|
| analysis | analyze | analytical | analytically |
| significance | signify | significant | significantly |
| effect | affect | effective | effectively |
| contribution | contribute | contributory | — |
| diversity | diversify | diverse | diversely |
| economy | economize | economic/economical | economically |
| persuasion | persuade | persuasive | persuasively |
| precision | — | precise | precisely |
| complexity | complicate | complex | — |
变换词族形式的例子:
重复: "The analysis showed clear trends. Our analysis also revealed outliers. Further analysis is needed."
用词族变换: "The analysis showed clear trends and revealed several outliers. These findings must be examined analytically before drawing conclusions."
学术写作需要精确地控制论断的强弱。不要动辄用 "very" 和 "really" 来加强语气,而要用经过分寸拿捏的模糊限制和强化语气词汇。
| 强度 | 模糊限制词 |
|---|---|
| 轻微弱化 | somewhat, to some extent, in part, partially |
| 中度弱化 | apparently, arguably, possibly, potentially |
| 大幅弱化 | conceivably, tentatively, it could be argued that |
| 强度 | 强化语气词 |
|---|---|
| 中度强调 | notably, considerably, markedly, substantially |
| 强烈强调 | significantly, decisively, unequivocally, overwhelmingly |
| 最高程度强调 | indisputably, incontrovertibly, categorically |
例子:
平淡: "The results are very different from previous studies."
模糊限制: "The results somewhat diverge from previous studies."(弱化论断)
强化语气: "The results markedly diverge from previous studies."(加强论断)
怎么选取决于你的证据。不要把语气加强到超出数据所能支持的程度。
改写前:
Social media has had a big effect on society. It has changed how people communicate in important ways. One important change is that people can now share information very quickly. This is a good thing in some ways because it helps people stay informed. But it is also a bad thing because misinformation can spread very fast. A lot of researchers have studied this interesting topic.
改写后:
Social media has had a profound effect on society, fundamentally transforming how people communicate. One pivotal change is the speed at which information now travels. This development is beneficial in some respects — it helps people stay informed in real time. However, it is also detrimental because misinformation can spread at unprecedented speed. Numerous researchers have investigated this compelling topic.
改动:big→profound,important→fundamentally/pivotal,very quickly→(删去,由语境暗示),good→beneficial,bad→detrimental,very fast→unprecedented speed,a lot of→numerous,interesting→compelling。
改写前:
We need to make some changes to get better results. The current approach has a lot of problems and is not very good. It is important to make a new plan that will make our processes better. We should get input from all departments and make sure everyone is involved.
改写后:
We need to implement changes to achieve stronger results. The current approach has numerous shortcomings and is largely ineffective. It is essential to develop a revised plan that will streamline our processes. We should gather input from all departments and ensure full participation.
改动:make→implement/develop/ensure,get→achieve/gather,a lot of→numerous,very good→largely ineffective,important→essential,better→streamline,make sure→ensure。
| 资源 | 涵盖内容 |
|---|---|
| 10 个被滥用的词 | 每个词 8–10 个替代词,按语境排列 |
| Very + 形容词 | 20 个组合,各配有更有力的单个替换词 |
| 词族 | 用名词/动词/形容词/副词等不同形式来变换 |
| 模糊限制与强化语气 | 拿捏学术论断强弱的词汇 |
| 段落改写 | 完整的前后对比改写,演示所有技巧 |
约5分钟阅读
本节是一份速查指南。把它加入书签,每当你需要检查自己的词汇丰富度、为用滥了的词找替换词,或者回顾修改流程时,就回到这里。
交稿前,对任何草稿都走一遍这个流程:
第 1 步:标记测试 通读你的文章,把出现超过两次的每一个实词(名词、动词、形容词、副词)都标出来。功能词(the, a, is, of, in, and, to 等)略过不管。
第 2 步:计数并标记 对每个标出的词,数一数它出现的次数。凡是符合下列情况的词,都标记出来:
第 3 步:给每处重复归类 对每个被标记的词,问一问:
第 4 步:替换或改写 对每个需要修改的词:
第 5 步:朗读 把修改后的文字大声读出来。听一听还有没有残留的单调之处或别扭的替换。一个词写在纸上看着没问题,读出来有时却显得生硬。
| 被滥用的词 | 学术语境 | 商务语境 | 一般语境 |
|---|---|---|---|
| good | effective, sound, rigorous, robust, exemplary | efficient, productive, profitable, strong, optimal | great, excellent, solid, fine, positive |
| bad | flawed, inadequate, deficient, problematic, erroneous | inefficient, substandard, underperforming, costly, detrimental | poor, weak, terrible, harmful, negative |
| important | significant, essential, critical, fundamental, pivotal | strategic, key, high-priority, vital, mission-critical | crucial, major, central, meaningful, necessary |
| interesting | noteworthy, compelling, significant, intriguing, instructive | promising, notable, relevant, strategic, attention-worthy | fascinating, engaging, striking, surprising, remarkable |
| thing(s) | factor, phenomenon, variable, element, consideration | item, deliverable, component, asset, issue | aspect, point, detail, part, feature |
| get | obtain, acquire, derive, achieve, yield | secure, procure, generate, capture, gain | receive, find, pick up, earn, land |
| make | develop, formulate, construct, generate, produce | implement, execute, deliver, create, establish | build, design, craft, put together, form |
| show | demonstrate, indicate, illustrate, reveal, suggest | present, highlight, outline, report, convey | display, prove, point out, exhibit, depict |
| very | highly, considerably, markedly, particularly, notably | significantly, substantially, exceptionally, extremely, remarkably | really, especially, incredibly, genuinely, truly |
| a lot of | numerous, extensive, substantial, considerable, abundant | significant, multiple, various, diverse, sizable | many, plenty of, scores of, a wealth of, countless |
替换任何一个词之前,先做这五项检查:
| # | 检查项 | 要问的问题 | 如果答案是否定的 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 意思 | 这个同义词的意思是否恰好是我想表达的? | 不要用——哪怕意思上细微的差别,也可能扭曲你的观点 |
| 2 | 隐含义 | 它是否带有相同的感情色彩(褒义/中性/贬义)? | 另找一个隐含义合适的替代词 |
| 3 | 语域 | 它和我文章的正式程度相符吗? | 从合适的语域中选词 |
| 4 | 搭配 | 它和周围的词搭配得自然吗? | 试试这个短语——如果听起来别扭,就换一个词 |
| 5 | 理解 | 我是否完全理解这个词,并能有把握地使用它? | 用一个你熟悉的词——永远不要拿词汇来虚张声势 |
黄金法则: 只要你对某个同义词有任何疑虑,就不要用它。一个简单而用对了的词,永远胜过一个高深却用错了的词。
是什么: 不管合不合适,都用同义词词典里听起来最唬人的同义词,去替换每一个重复的词。
看起来是什么样子:
原句: "The city has many old buildings."
同义词词典综合征: "The metropolis possesses a plethora of antiquated edifices."
为什么行不通: 修改后的句子听起来做作而不自然。"Metropolis" 暗示一座巨型城市(未必准确)。"Plethora" 暗示多得过分、多得令人讨厌。"Antiquated" 暗示过时而无用,而不是具有历史价值。"Edifices" 则是毫无必要的华丽。
更好的修改: "The city has numerous historic buildings."——简单、准确,变化也足够。
是什么: 在语境并不需要的时候,使用过于正式的词汇。
看起来是什么样子:
写给同事的邮件: "I wish to ascertain whether you have procured the requisite documentation for the forthcoming assembly."
更好: "Do you have the documents ready for tomorrow's meeting?"
正式词汇是一种工具,而不是默认选项。在语境要求正式的时候——学术论文、法律文件、正式报告——才用它,而不是在日常沟通中用。
是什么: 因为一个词听起来高深而使用它,却并不完全理解它的意思或用法。
常见的例子:
| 词 | 常见的误用 | 实际意思 |
|---|---|---|
| ironic | 被用来表示 "coincidental"(巧合的) | 指结果与预期恰恰相反的情形 |
| literally | 被用作加强语气的词("I literally died") | 确实地、按字面意义地,不是比喻 |
| enormity | 被用来表示 "enormousness"(巨大) | 极度的邪恶或道德上的暴行(而不只是体积大) |
| comprise | "comprised of"(错误用法) | 整体 comprises(包含)各部分;各部分 compose(组成)整体 |
| penultimate | 被用来表示"最好的/终极的" | 倒数第二 |
| bemused | 被用来表示 "amused"(被逗乐的) | 困惑的,迷惑不解的 |
规则: 如果你不能凭记忆用一个词造出三个不同的正确句子,你对它的了解就还不足以在正式写作中使用它。
是什么: 一个关键术语每出现一次就换一个词,让读者搞不清你指的是不是同一样东西。
令人困惑: "The study examined 500 participants. The research found that most preferred option A. This investigation confirms previous analyses."
读者不禁纳闷:这是四样不同的东西,还是同一样东西?在这个例子里,它们都是同一项研究,但不停的变换掩盖了这一事实。
更好: "The study examined 500 participants and found that most preferred option A. These findings confirm previous research."
用同义词来增加变化,但不要为了避免重复而牺牲清晰。
在修改过程中按下面的步骤进行。把词汇修改作为单独的一轮来做——不要在还在调整结构或论证的时候就去改词汇。
完成草稿。 放开手写,不必担心用词。先把所有想法都写到纸上。
放一放。 如果可能,至少隔几个小时再修改。换一双新鲜的眼睛,更容易发现重复。
做标记测试。 通读全文,标出每一个重复的实词。用频率阈值来找出问题。
分清主次。 先改重复最多的词。如果 "important" 出现了 8 次,"suggest" 出现了 3 次,就先改 "important"。
运用同义词判断清单。 对每个想替换的词,把五项检查(意思、隐含义、语域、搭配、理解)全部走一遍。
检查词根重复。 扫一遍扎堆出现的同一词族(develop/development/developing)。变换词形,或者另找替代词。
消除语义重复。 找出用不同的词说同一件事的句子。保留最有力的那个说法,删掉其余的。
朗读。 听一听还有没有残留的单调之处或别扭的措辞。如果某个替换听起来生硬,就换一个词,或者改写句子。
最后检查。 再做一次标记测试,确认重复已经减少到可以接受的程度。
下面这些常用词在一篇短文中出现 3 次或更多时,往往预示着重复问题。如果你发现其中哪个词在文章里反复出现,就检查一下用替代词能否提高你的词汇丰富度。
| 类别 | 危险信号词 |
|---|---|
| 含糊的形容词 | good, bad, big, small, nice, important, interesting, great, different, new |
| 含糊的动词 | get, make, do, have, go, come, take, give, put, use |
| 含糊的名词 | thing, stuff, way, area, place, people, aspect, situation, issue, point |
| 用滥了的加强语气词 | very, really, extremely, incredibly, absolutely, totally, completely |
| 用滥了的过渡词 | however, therefore, furthermore, moreover, additionally, also |
| 用滥了的表态语 | I think, I believe, in my opinion, I feel, it seems |
| 资源 | 涵盖内容 |
|---|---|
| 自我诊断清单 | 评估任何草稿词汇丰富度的 5 步流程 |
| 速查表 | 10 个被滥用的词在 3 种语境下的 5 个首选替换词 |
| 同义词判断清单 | 替换任何词之前要做的 5 项检查 |
| 词汇陷阱 | 同义词词典综合征、过于正式、不懂的词、优雅变换 |
| 修改流程 | 专注于提升词汇的 9 步修改流程 |
| 危险信号词 | 60 多个预示潜在重复问题的词 |