23/02/2024
What does "vivid language" mean?
Vivid language is a reference to words that tend to stimulate other senses including sight, taste, touch, or smell. When you utter a word or phrase the first sense that captures it is the sense of hearing. But there are words that can also be captured by other senses. For example, if you say the “fast red Corvette” the listener may have a memory of seeing a fast red Corvette in the past. Those words may trigger this memory and give them a visual reference. That language is more vivid and increases the impact of your message. If you use the phrase “I could smell freshly baked chocolate chip cookies”…almost everyone has smelled that delicious aroma and the words can vividly awaken olfactory memories.
Below are some basic examples of vivid language corresponding with the sense they may trigger;
SIGHT: tall, short, bright, dark, striped, (specific colors) pitch black
SMELL: aroma, perfume, flowers, scent, putrid
TASTE: bitter, sweet, tangy
TOUCH: bumpy, smooth, rough, tight, flaccid, limp
Vivid language also includes onomatopoeia, any word that enhances the sense of hearing because the word sounds like or reminds you of an actual sound.
HEARING: crash, bang, whack.
There are also other tips and techniques to better use visual language including the use of simile and metaphor. If you want to learn more about other types of vivid language or how to enhance your speaking with them feel free to contact me.
Anthony Hogan
President at Ivolution Communications (2011–present)
Anthony Hogan's answer: Vivid language is a reference to words that tend to stimulate other senses including sight, taste, touch or smell. When you utter a word or phrase the first sense that captures it is the sense of hearing. But there are words that can also be captured by other senses. For e...