Vocabulary for description and stories
Why vocabulary matters
Paper 1 Question 5 gives : a range of vocabulary and sentences, spelt and punctuated accurately. Precise words also help , because each one adds detail and mood.
These 24 words are useful in descriptions and stories. Learn them with the flashcards: each card gives the meaning and a sentence showing the word in use. Aim to use three or four well in an answer, not all of them.
Key terms
Places and atmosphere
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| desolate | empty, bleak and lonely |
| dilapidated | falling apart through age or neglect |
| ominous | suggesting something bad is about to happen |
| serene | calm and peaceful |
| tranquil | quiet and still |
| labyrinthine | twisting and confusing, like a maze |
| pristine | perfectly clean, as if new |
| looming | appearing large and threatening |
Light, sound and smell
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| luminous | glowing with light |
| shimmering | shining with a soft, wavering light |
| cacophony | a harsh mix of loud sounds |
| incessant | never stopping |
| murmur | a low, soft, continuous sound |
| acrid | sharp and bitter, stinging the nose or throat |
Using all five senses makes a description vivid, and these words help you go beyond sight.
Key terms
Movement and feelings
Verbs of movement and speech show character without stating it:
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| trudge | walk slowly and heavily, as if tired |
| saunter | walk in a slow, relaxed way |
| scurry | move quickly with short steps |
| lurch | move suddenly and unsteadily |
| whimper | make small, weak crying sounds |
| bellow | shout in a deep, loud voice |
| apprehensive | worried that something bad will happen |
| elated | extremely happy and excited |
| forlorn | sad and lonely, as if abandoned |
| seething | very angry but holding it in |
Using new words well
- Fit the word to the moment. ‘The corridor was labyrinthine’ works; ‘my bedroom was labyrinthine’ probably doesn't.
- Let the word do the work. ‘She trudged’ already means slowly and tiredly, so ‘she trudged slowly’ wastes a word.
- Spell it right. A misspelt ambitious word costs AO6 marks.
Common mistake
Cramming in long words to impress. One precise word in the right place beats five in the wrong ones.