Wording

'wɜːrdɪŋ

nounmediumCommonGeneral

Definitions

1

The manner in which something is expressed in words; the choice of words.

'wɜːrdɪŋ

nounneutralmedium
General

The specific language used to express something.

The wording of the email was polite and professional.

💡 Simply: It's how you say or write something! Imagine you're giving instructions to a friend. The wording you choose – like "Turn left at the red house" – helps them understand. It's all about using the right words to get your message across!

👶 For kids: The way you use your words.

More Examples

2

We discussed the wording of the new policy at length.

3

The ambiguity in the wording caused confusion.

How It's Used

Legal

"The wording of the contract was crucial to avoid future disputes."

Journalism

"The journalist carefully considered the wording of the headline to attract readers."

General

"The wording on the invitation clearly stated the dress code."

Idioms & expressions

word for word

Using the exact same words as the original.

"He recited the poem word for word."

in other words

Used to restate something in a different and usually simpler way.

"He was being difficult – in other words, he was being a pain."

From the word 'word', with the suffix '-ing', indicating a process or result. The use of the word to describe the specific language used in something dates back to the late 19th century.

The term gained prominence in the late 19th century, initially referring to specific phrases or clauses within legal documents, and gradually expanded to encompass any written or spoken expression.

Memory tip

Think of the *words* used to *construct* something; it's the *wording*.

worddingwordingg

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written