Finding the Right Words

Repeating the same word in a document can reduce a message's effectiveness. Instead, replace some words with synonyms , words with similar meanings. Or find antonyms , words with opposite meanings. If you need help finding exactly the right word, use the shortcut menu to look up synonyms quickly or search Word's Thesaurus for more options. This feature can save you time and improve the quality and readability of your document. You can also install a thesaurus for another language.

Find a Synonym

Right-click the word for which you want a synonym.

Point to Synonyms.

Click the synonym you want to substitute.

Use the Thesaurus

Select the word you want to look up.

Click the Tools menu, point to Language, and then click Thesaurus.

Click a word to find other synonyms.

Point to the word you want to use, click the list arrow, and then click Insert.

When you're done, click the Close button on the task pane.