Lesson 17 of 24
Paraphrasing and missing words
Keep the idea available
Paraphrase means expressing the intended meaning another way. It helps when a word is unavailable and when repeating the same wording would be awkward. It does not mean swapping every word for a synonym.
| Situation | Strategy | Original wording |
|---|---|---|
| You forget an object’s name | Describe function | “The small tool you use to tighten a screw.” |
| You forget a specific action | Explain the process | “I attached the two pieces so they wouldn’t move.” |
| A word is too broad | Specify the feature | “By convenient, I mean I can get there without changing buses.” |
| You repeat a noun | Use a clear reference | “The workshop… That session…” |
| A phrase sounds unnatural | Use simpler language | “It saves time” instead of an uncertain elaborate expression |
Preserve the meaning
“Expensive” is not the same as “valuable,” and “quiet” is not always the same as “peaceful.” Before changing wording, decide which meaning you need. For an object with emotional significance, “valuable to me” or “has sentimental value” may fit better than “costly.”
You can also paraphrase a whole explanation: “The course was flexible” becomes “I could choose when to complete each lesson.” This may be clearer than searching for another adjective.
Practise retrieval
Choose five everyday objects and explain them without naming them. Have a listener identify each. Next, practise an answer in which one useful word is deliberately unavailable. Keep the sentence moving with a description rather than stopping to translate.
When unsure of a complex word’s pronunciation or use, a clear familiar alternative is usually more effective. The aim is flexible communication, not making every sentence longer. After practice, look up the missing word and use it in several new contexts so that it becomes easier to retrieve later.