Word Challenge

For the common word old…

The diagnosis is: vague

As in the sentence: Jim is an old member of the cast.

When old is used in this context, it would probably be kinder to look for an alternative—one that has a more diplomatic and more precise connotation.

Now your turn. Try this Powerful Remedies Exercise…

Jim is a(n) _____ member of the cast.

For the above sentence, substitute one of the following powerful remedies for
old, then write a sentence describing the new meaning of the sentence:

Example: Using aged instead of old: We don't know how long Jim has been with the cast, but he is advanced in age.

1. experienced ____________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

2. mature ________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

3. seasoned ______________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

Now choose which powerful remedy best fits each of the new meanings below:

skilled          senior         veteran

4. __________ Though this could relate to Jim's chronological age, it would more often imply he is of higher or the highest rank or standing in the cast.

5. __________ Jim's skill is either from experience or from training.

6. __________ Jim has long service with the cast.

Click here for answers.

CURED!

I was very, very naive for a veteran guy. I thought I was going to be a place where dissent could be heard. PHIL DONAHUE