Trait #4 - Word Choice

Words convey the intended message in a precise, natural way. The writing is full, yet concise.
Words are specific and accurate; they seem just right.
Imagery is strong.
Powerful verbs give the writing energy.
The language is not overdone, yet it contains striking word choices that help convey the message and give importance to what is being said.
Expression is fresh and appealing; slang and jargon is used sparingly, if at all.

The language is functional, even if it lacks punch; it does get the message across.
Words are almost always correct and adequate (though not always precise); it is easy to understand what the writer means.
Familiar words communicate, but do not set the writer apart from the others. The writer seems reluctant to risk or stretch his/her communication skills.
In places the writing seems overdone; the writer is trying too hard to impress.
Paper may contain a few energetic verbs, but tends to drag and often uses passive voice.
The writer may use redundancy, slips in a cliché now and then, but it doesn't become annoying.

The writer struggles with a limited vocabulary, searching for words to convey meaning or relies on worn out words that are trendy. More than one of the following problems is likely to be evident:
Language is so vague and abstract (e.g., "it was fun," "it was interesting," "it was nice,") that only the most general message comes through.
Persistent redundancy clouds the message and distracts the reader.
Clichés, trendy words, or jargon serves as a crutch.
Words are used incorrectly in more than one or two cases, sometimes making the message hard to decipher.
The writer is not yet selecting words that would help the reader to a better understanding.