“People laugh at me because I use big words. But if you have big ideas, you have to use big words…”
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— L.M. Montgomery
Lucy Maud Montgomery, the celebrated author of Anne of Green Gables, penned these words with profound insight. This quote beautifully captures a timeless dilemma. It speaks to the tension between expressing complex thoughts and fitting into social norms. Moreover, it champions the idea that our language must rise to the level of our ideas, not the other way around. It is a defense of intellectual ambition and the vocabulary required to support it.
This sentiment resonates with anyone who has ever felt misunderstood for their choice of words. However, Montgomery suggests this is not a flaw but a necessity. To explore big ideas, we need a rich and precise vocabulary. Let’s delve into why embracing “big words” is essential for communicating big ideas effectively.
Why Big Ideas Demand a Big Vocabulary
Simple language is often praised for its clarity. Indeed, clear communication is always the goal. Yet, some ideas are inherently complex and nuanced. Trying to explain them with a limited vocabulary is like trying to paint a masterpiece with only three colors. You can create a picture, but you will lose all the subtle shades and textures. Big words are tools for precision. They allow us to make fine distinctions and convey specific meanings that simpler words might obscure.
For example, the words “sad” and “melancholy” both describe a state of unhappiness. However, “melancholy” suggests a deeper, more thoughtful, and lingering sadness. Using the more precise term communicates a much richer emotional landscape. This precision is not about showing off; it is about achieving true clarity. When you articulate a complex business strategy or a scientific theory, the right terminology prevents ambiguity and misunderstanding. Therefore, a large vocabulary empowers you to express your thoughts with accuracy and depth.
The Link Between Language and Thought
Language does not just describe our thoughts; it actively shapes them. The words we know influence how we perceive and categorize the world around us. Consequently, expanding your vocabulary can actually expand your ability to think in more complex ways. Experts believe that a rich vocabulary provides more conceptual hooks on which to hang new ideas. Source
When you learn a new word, you gain a new concept. Think of a specialist, like a botanist or an engineer. Their specialized vocabulary allows them to see and understand details that an average person would miss. For instance, while the average person sees a tree, a botanist sees a Quercus alba with chlorotic leaves, indicating a potential nitrogen deficiency. The specialized words provide a framework for deeper analysis. This principle applies to all fields of thought, from philosophy to art. Big words are the building blocks for big ideas.
The Social Side of Sophisticated Language
Montgomery’s quote directly addresses the social friction that can arise from using an advanced vocabulary: “People laugh at me.” This experience is common. Using unfamiliar words can sometimes be perceived as pretentious or exclusionary. It can make others feel uncomfortable or inadequate. This social dynamic often discourages people from using the full breadth of their vocabulary, forcing them to simplify their language to be more relatable.
However, the solution is not to abandon precision. Instead, it is about knowing your audience and your context. In a casual conversation, using overly academic language might be inappropriate. But in a professional or academic setting, precise language is expected and necessary. The key is to communicate with empathy. You can define a complex term briefly if you think your audience may not know it. The goal is to connect and share your big idea, not to create distance. Ultimately, true confidence lies in using the right word for the right reason, which is always clarity.
How to Cultivate Your Own Big Words
If you are inspired to embrace big ideas and the words they require, you can actively cultivate a richer vocabulary. This is a rewarding and lifelong pursuit. Here are a few practical ways to start:
- Read Widely and Actively: Reading is the most effective way to encounter new words in context. Read books, articles, and essays from various fields. When you come across a word you don’t know, don’t just skip it. Look it up and try to understand its nuances.
- Use a Thesaurus Thoughtfully: A thesaurus can introduce you to new words, but use it with care. Don’t just swap a simple word for a complex one. Instead, study the synonyms to understand the subtle differences in meaning and connotation.
- Practice Using New Words: Knowledge becomes permanent through application. Try to incorporate new words into your writing and speaking. Start with low-stakes situations, like journaling or conversations with friends. This practice builds confidence and makes the words a natural part of your vocabulary. The average vocabulary of a college graduate is around 20,000 words, while prolific writers may know twice that. Each new word is a step toward greater expression.
In conclusion, L.M. Montgomery’s quote is a powerful reminder to value our ideas enough to find the right words for them. It encourages us to be brave in our intellectual pursuits, even in the face of misunderstanding. A big vocabulary is not about arrogance; it is about honoring the complexity of our thoughts. Therefore, do not shy away from big words. Embrace them as essential tools for building and sharing your own big ideas.