0

What is a word to describe selecting the absolute best word to use in a sentence? This is a problem for writers.

|improve this question
  • 1
    What's the question again? – Em1 Jan 6 '14 at 18:02
4

Mot juste means the exact, appropriate word.

|improve this answer
  • Given these are actually two (French) words, perhaps we should say the answer is the/les mots justes :) – FumbleFingers Jan 6 '14 at 19:15
  • 1
    So why can't he simply use the right word since mot juste means the right word? – bib Jan 6 '14 at 20:18
  • Mot juste is better. – Edwin Ashworth Jan 6 '14 at 23:35
0

There's the French-origin word "mot juste", which, as mentioned in earlier answer is defined by ODO as

The exact, appropriate word

If it's the process of choosing words, irrespective of them being good or bad, call it "wording", or "phrasing". Definitions from M-W:

Wording

the way in which something is said or written : the words that are used to say something

Phrasing

the way something is expressed in words : the particular words or the order of words that are used to express something

So, a sentence can be poorly worded or phrased. Or, perhaps, it can be wordy

Or it can be clear, concise, or properly worded.

|improve this answer

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.