SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/cadet-prefer-familiar-words

When should a communicator prefer a familiar word?

Use the familiar word unless a specialized term is truly needed.

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  1. Whenever it expresses the meaning well ✔
  2. Only in messages to friends
  3. Never in formal writing

Why: Communication is meant to transfer meaning, not display a giant vocabulary. A plain word is usually easier and faster to understand.

Huh, didn't know that: A technical term can be useful when it is more exact than any everyday substitute.

The dad joke
The dictionary took a shortcut. It used the simple word.
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References

Answer: Whenever it expresses the meaning well. Communication is meant to transfer meaning, not display a giant vocabulary. A plain word is usually easier and faster to understand.

  1. Learn to Lead, Volume 2 www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/Vol2LetterLowFinal_8BDFDB373E830.pdf
    Use a familiar word unless a ten-dollar word is needed.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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