Obsession with Strained Synonyms

Looking for similar words, check it out in a Thesaurus. Synonyms are words with similar meanings but different connotations. They are used in different context. For example, father, pa, papa and padre but also parent, progenitor and ancestor, you can swap them at random.

From my perspective, I think synonyms are useful because it helps avoid repetition and gives finer distinction. Words in English language have a precise meaning.  Not all words are readily applicable by synonyms. However, I call overuse of a thesaurus ‘lazy and ignorant.’  If you know what you are trying to say there is no need for repetition or for applying non-accurate synonyms. Although, synonyms are useful in instances where you want to avoid saying the same word over and over again, they must be chosen with care. If that is the case, would you prefer to write mechanically?  But mechanical anything can make bad writing worse. I would find it confusing to see something referred to with a different word every time it appeared in a text or story. The only time I resort to a thesaurus is when I have forgotten a word which can happen frequently as you age. But who wants to live long and not remember their name?  Definitely, a thesaurus would not help in this case unless you write your name on the cover. Unfortunately, if that day comes, you might forget you have a thesaurus. Actually, synonyms and repetition are okay, using either mechanically is not a good idea. You can’t write progenitor in a book or preschoolers and you can’t write daddy in an academic essay. Here synonyms do not work especially without the context. Again, synonyms are different from metonymy, replacing the word by an expression based on the external similarity.

 Learn the language. Look up meanings of words. Use your imagination. The ideal way to get around repetition in stories, for instance, is to change the character perspective and actions. You can use any tool at your disposal, but do it carefully. Pay attention to where and when you use it and what effect it creates.