When you’re deep in the trenches of writing, there’s nothing worse than leaning on “said” like a literary crutch.
It’s time to retire the monotony and liven up your dialogue with creative alternatives. Below is the ultimate list of 500 other words for “said,” meticulously organized to make your storytelling shine. From emotional expressions to situational tones, we’ve got every scenario covered.
Happy and Cheerful Alternatives
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When your characters are in high spirits, their words should bounce off the page. Here are cheerful other words for said that radiate joy.
- Chimed
- Exclaimed
- Giggled
- Grinned
- Laughed
- Sang
- Cheered
- Caroled
- Rejoiced
- Chirped
- Beamed
- Celebrated
- Gleefully stated
- Joked
- Bantered
- Brightened
- Jubilated
- Mirthfully uttered
- Smirked
- Tittered
- Gushed
- Elatedly noted
- Replied with zest
- Chuckled
- Radiantly expressed
- Whooped
- Quipped
- Lilted
- Boasted
- Exulted
Example Sentences
- “We did it!” she chimed with glee.
- “This is the best day ever,” he exclaimed, unable to stop smiling.
- “That’s hilarious,” she giggled, clutching her stomach.
- “I can’t believe it!” he grinned, his eyes sparkling.
- “Woohoo!” she laughed as she danced around the room.
- “The results are in, and we’re a hit,” he sang, waving the paper.
- “Go team!” they cheered, throwing their hats into the air.
- “We’re finally free!” she rejoiced, spinning in the sunlight.
- “Oh, that’s perfect,” he chirped, his enthusiasm contagious.
- “I love this!” she beamed, her face radiant with joy.
Sad and Somber Alternatives
Sadness is a powerful emotion in storytelling. Use these other words for said to evoke empathy and connect readers with your characters’ melancholy.
- Sighed
- Mumbled
- Whispered
- Mourned
- Sobbed
- Murmured
- Cried
- Lamented
- Wailed
- Bemoaned
- Despaired
- Brooded
- Moaned
- Whimpered
- Sniveled
- Droned
- Dismally stated
- Uttered forlornly
- Moaned softly
- Hinted wearily
- Dejectedly said
- Breathed sorrowfully
- Confessed with regret
- Choked out
- Whispered tearfully
- Murmured miserably
- Apologized sadly
- Repeated mournfully
- Responded gloomily
- Stammered wistfully
Example Sentences
- “I’m sorry,” she sighed, her shoulders slumping.
- “It’s gone,” he mumbled, barely audible.
- “I don’t know what to do,” she whispered, tears brimming in her eyes.
- “I miss her so much,” he mourned, his voice cracking.
- “Why did this happen?” she sobbed, clutching her chest.
- “It doesn’t even matter anymore,” he murmured, staring into the distance.
- “I should have tried harder,” she cried, her voice breaking.
- “This is all my fault,” he lamented, his hands covering his face.
- “Please don’t leave,” she wailed, her voice echoing in the empty room.
- “It’s just not fair,” he bemoaned, shaking his head.
Angry and Frustrated Alternatives
When tempers flare, “said” just doesn’t cut it. Here are fiery other words for said to bring out the fury in your dialogue.
- Shouted
- Roared
- Snapped
- Barked
- Raged
- Yelled
- Screamed
- Fumed
- Bellowed
- Thundered
- Huffed
- Spat
- Growled
- Seethed
- Hissed
- Demanded
- Grumbled
- Gritted
- Argued
- Rebuked
- Protested
- Retorted
- Exploded
- Accused
- Scolded
- Commanded
- Declared forcefully
- Asserted angrily
- Cried out
- Screeched
Example Sentences
- “I told you to stop!” she shouted, her face flushed with anger.
- “How dare you?” he roared, slamming his fist on the table.
- “Don’t you get it?” she snapped, her tone cutting.
- “I’m done with this nonsense,” he barked, storming out.
- “This is unacceptable!” she raged, pacing back and forth.
- “Stop lying!” he yelled, pointing an accusatory finger.
- “Get out of my way,” she screamed, her voice piercing the air.
- “You’re impossible,” he fumed, glaring at her.
- “How could you do this?” she bellowed, her fists clenched.
- “I’m not listening to another excuse,” he thundered, his voice booming.
Loving and Romantic Alternatives
Sweet, sentimental moments need words that match their tender tones. These synonyms for said will make readers swoon.
- Whispered tenderly
- Murmured sweetly
- Purred
- Coaxed
- Crooned
- Adored
- Declared lovingly
- Spoke softly
- Promised
- Vowed
- Serenaded
- Gushed lovingly
- Admired
- Complimented
- Yearned
- Confessed
- Called affectionately
- Assured
- Beckoned
- Reassured
- Uttered tenderly
- Stated with devotion
- Praised
- Cooed
- Soothed
- Expressed fondly
- Muttered with care
- Whimpered passionately
- Uttered softly
- Offered with love
Example Sentences
- “You mean everything to me,” she whispered tenderly, her eyes locked on his.
- “I’ll never let you go,” he murmured sweetly, pulling her close.
- “You’re my everything,” she purred, her voice a soft caress.
- “Stay with me forever,” he coaxed, his hand on hers.
- “You make my heart sing,” she crooned, a blush spreading across her cheeks.
- “I adore you,” he declared lovingly, his voice full of emotion.
- “I’m here for you, always,” she promised, her voice steady.
- “You’ve got this,” he reassured, brushing her hair back.
- “I’ll love you forever,” she vowed, her voice trembling.
- “You’re perfect,” he uttered tenderly, kissing her forehead.
Fearful and Nervous Alternatives
Fear and nerves bring tension to a story, and these synonyms will set the scene perfectly.
- Stammered
- Whispered nervously
- Gasped
- Shrieked
- Quivered
- Sputtered
- Hesitated
- Choked
- Cried out
- Shuddered
- Trembled
- Murmured shakily
- Recoiled
- Screamed faintly
- Pleaded
- Whined
- Protested weakly
- Whimpered
- Begged
- Hiccupped
- Blurted out
- Uttered fearfully
- Moaned
- Sniveled
- Shrilled
- Called out nervously
- Muttered with dread
- Stuttered
- Spoke haltingly
- Gasped out
Example Sentences
- “What was that noise?” she stammered, clutching her blanket.
- “Don’t leave me,” he whispered nervously, glancing over his shoulder.
- “We’re not alone,” she gasped, her breath catching.
- “This doesn’t feel right,” he quivered, his hands trembling.
- “Did you hear that?” she sputtered, barely able to get the words out.
- “We need to get out of here,” he hesitated, his voice faltering.
- “Please, no,” she choked, tears streaming down her face.
- “We’re going to be okay, right?” he shuddered, gripping the steering wheel.
- “What if they find us?” she whimpered, shrinking into the corner.
- “I can’t do this,” he stuttered, his voice barely a whisper.
Excited and Enthusiastic Alternatives
Excitement leaps off the page when your characters are bursting with energy. Here are other words for said to convey enthusiasm.
- Exclaimed
- Shouted with glee
- Yelped
- Bubbled
- Gushed
- Cried out excitedly
- Cheered
- Squealed
- Chirped
- Whooped
- Hailed
- Hooted
- Celebrated aloud
- Clapped
- Hollered
- Jubilantly expressed
- Cackled
- Chortled
- Roared with joy
- Boomed
- Spoke eagerly
- Declared enthusiastically
- Sang out
- Clamored
- Guffawed
- Shouted victoriously
- Rejoiced aloud
- Bellowed with excitement
- Exulted loudly
- Spoke with fervor
Example Sentences
- “We’re going to the concert!” she exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement.
- “I can’t believe it!” he shouted with glee, jumping up and down.
- “We’ve won the championship!” she yelped, throwing her arms in the air.
- “This is amazing,” he bubbled, his voice full of energy.
- “You’re kidding me!” she gushed, her cheeks flushed with joy.
- “This is everything I’ve ever dreamed of,” he cheered, practically dancing.
- “Let’s celebrate!” she squealed, grabbing her friend’s hands.
- “I can’t wait for tomorrow!” he chirped, his enthusiasm contagious.
- “We’re going to crush it!” she whooped, pumping her fist.
- “We’re finally doing it!” he hailed, his grin unstoppable.
Commanding and Authoritative Alternatives
When your characters take charge, their words should reflect their authority. These commanding other words for said pack a punch.
- Ordered
- Demanded
- Commanded
- Directed
- Insisted
- Proclaimed
- Declared
- Dictated
- Asserted
- Mandated
- Instructed
- Enforced
- Summoned
- Admonished
- Commanded sharply
- Bellowed authoritatively
- Announced
- Pronounced
- Decreed
- Ruled
- Issued
- Charged
- Uttered sternly
- Stated imperatively
- Called firmly
- Enjoined
- Prohibited
- Spoke dominantly
- Dictated firmly
- Ruled decisively
Example Sentences
- “Stop right there,” she ordered, her tone leaving no room for argument.
- “Hand it over,” he demanded, his hand outstretched.
- “Everyone, listen up,” she commanded, her voice echoing through the hall.
- “You will follow the rules,” he directed, his gaze sharp.
- “I need that report on my desk by noon,” she insisted, tapping her pen.
- “This is not negotiable,” he proclaimed, his words deliberate.
- “Effective immediately, this will change,” she declared, her tone firm.
- “You are to report back at once,” he dictated, his voice cold.
- “Carry out the orders as instructed,” she asserted, fixing her team with a stern look.
- “This is the final decision,” he mandated, leaving no doubt in their minds.
Confused and Doubtful Alternatives
Confusion and doubt create intrigue. Use these said alternatives to show uncertainty.
- Questioned
- Stammered
- Hesitated
- Mumbled
- Stuttered
- Repeated uncertainly
- Murmured quizzically
- Whispered doubtfully
- Pondered aloud
- Blurted
- Faltered
- Wondered
- Scratched their head while speaking
- Uttered hesitantly
- Queried
- Spoke tentatively
- Wavered
- Asked softly
- Echoed doubtfully
- Disputed
- Piped up uncertainly
- Droned
- Cautiously said
- Probed
- Examined aloud
- Mused aloud
- Hypothesized
- Inquired
- Surmised
- Called out skeptically
Example Sentences
- “What does this even mean?” she questioned, tilting her head.
- “Are you sure about that?” he stammered, his brow furrowed.
- “I’m not following,” she hesitated, looking around for clarification.
- “You really think so?” he mumbled, his doubt evident.
- “Wait, what?” she stuttered, her voice rising slightly.
- “I don’t get it,” he repeated uncertainly, scratching his head.
- “Are you sure that’s the right move?” she murmured quizzically, her tone cautious.
- “I guess that might work?” he uttered hesitantly, glancing at the others.
- “How does this even make sense?” she wondered, her confusion plain.
- “What if we’re wrong?” he faltered, his voice barely above a whisper.
Sarcastic and Snarky Alternatives
Drip sarcasm into your dialogue with these biting other words for said.
- Sneered
- Snarked
- Scoffed
- Mocked
- Derided
- Chortled
- Jeered
- Teased
- Quipped
- Drawled
- Sniped
- Retorted
- Rejoined
- Countered sarcastically
- Commented dryly
- Observed mockingly
- Ridiculed
- Replied with a smirk
- Added wryly
- Responded cuttingly
- Snickered
- Joked caustically
- Observed derisively
- Chuckled darkly
- Taunted
- Rebuffed
- Replied ironically
- Uttered mockingly
- Remarked archly
- Parodied
Example Sentences
- “Oh, sure, because that’s going to work,” she sneered, rolling her eyes.
- “Fantastic idea, Einstein,” he snarked, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
- “Of course, you know best,” she scoffed, folding her arms.
- “Oh, please, enlighten me,” he mocked, raising an eyebrow.
- “Yes, because this went so well last time,” she derided, her lips curling into a smirk.
- “Brilliant observation,” he quipped, shaking his head.
- “You’re such a genius,” she jeered, her voice heavy with irony.
- “And here I thought you were clueless,” he teased, his grin sharp.
- “Great, let’s try your foolproof plan,” she drawled, her voice dripping with sarcasm.
- “This will definitely end well,” he sniped, his tone cutting.
Neutral and Everyday Alternatives
Sometimes, plain speech works best. These neutral alternatives keep the dialogue grounded.
- Stated
- Mentioned
- Replied
- Added
- Noted
- Answered
- Reported
- Uttered
- Explained
- Confirmed
- Observed
- Indicated
- Responded
- Remarked
- Expressed
- Recited
- Related
- Announced
- Communicated
- Conveyed
- Voiced
- Declared
- Commented
- Reiterated
- Enunciated
- Articulated
- Specified
- Confirmed aloud
- Vocalized
- Briefly mentioned
Example Sentences
- “I think we should leave now,” she stated, glancing at her watch.
- “That sounds about right,” he mentioned, nodding thoughtfully.
- “I’ll meet you at five,” she replied, her voice calm.
- “It’s over there,” he added, pointing toward the map.
- “You should probably double-check that,” she noted, tapping the document.
- “I agree with what you’re saying,” he answered, his tone measured.
- “Here’s what I found,” she reported, handing over the folder.
- “We need to fix this issue,” he uttered, his tone neutral.
- “Let me clarify,” she explained, adjusting her glasses.
- “It’s as simple as that,” he confirmed, crossing his arms.
Whispered and Soft Alternatives
Sometimes, a hushed tone says it all. These soft-spoken other words for said bring a sense of intimacy or secrecy to your dialogue.
- Whispered
- Murmured
- Mumbled softly
- Breathed
- Hissed quietly
- Spoke under their breath
- Uttered faintly
- Crooned
- Mused softly
- Muttered
- Said in a low voice
- Sighed gently
- Purred softly
- Murmured tenderly
- Spoke delicately
- Hummed
- Echoed softly
- Breathed out
- Spoke in a hush
- Uttered serenely
- Sighed under their breath
- Replied softly
- Piped up quietly
- Choked softly
- Whispered earnestly
- Muttered carefully
- Spoke in subdued tones
- Gasped softly
- Coaxed in a whisper
- Reassured quietly
Example Sentences
- “Don’t let them hear us,” she whispered, her breath barely audible.
- “It’s going to be okay,” he murmured, placing a hand on her shoulder.
- “I’m not sure about this,” she mumbled softly, avoiding his gaze.
- “We should tread carefully,” he breathed, his voice low and steady.
- “Stay hidden,” she hissed quietly, glancing around nervously.
- “It’s not safe here,” he spoke under his breath, his eyes darting around.
- “I believe in you,” she uttered faintly, her voice trembling.
- “Everything will be fine,” he crooned, his tone soothing.
- “Can you hear that?” she mused softly, tilting her head toward the sound.
- “Don’t worry, I’m here,” he muttered, holding her close.
Funny and Playful Alternatives
Add a touch of humor or playfulness to your characters’ words with these amusing synonyms.
- Joked
- Teased
- Quipped
- Bantered
- Giggled
- Chuckled
- Snorted
- Laughed
- Cackled
- Snickered
- Smirked
- Poked fun
- Ribbed
- Tittered
- Guffawed
- Clowned
- Grinned mischievously
- Replied with a laugh
- Gushed humorously
- Taunted playfully
- Mimicked
- Mocked lightly
- Parodied
- Chortled
- Beamed playfully
- Responded wryly
- Drawled jokingly
- Twinkled
- Announced with a laugh
- Jested
Example Sentences
- “Looks like someone’s in a hurry,” she joked, a mischievous glint in her eye.
- “You really did that?” he teased, laughing.
- “That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard,” she quipped, shaking her head.
- “If only life were that simple,” he bantered, a smirk on his lips.
- “You’re such a troublemaker,” she giggled, nudging his arm.
- “This is why we can’t have nice things,” he chuckled, picking up the mess.
- “You’re impossible,” she snorted, trying to stifle a laugh.
- “Oh, you think you’re clever, huh?” he laughed, wagging a finger.
- “I can’t believe you just said that,” she cackled, wiping tears from her eyes.
- “That was too good,” he snickered, still smiling.
Suspenseful and Tense Alternatives
Build tension in your dialogue with these suspenseful synonyms for said.
- Hissed
- Whispered harshly
- Gasped
- Murmured tensely
- Growled
- Barked
- Uttered ominously
- Intoned
- Warned
- Stated flatly
- Snapped
- Replied curtly
- Observed gravely
- Declared with tension
- Reiterated slowly
- Replied darkly
- Commanded harshly
- Advised firmly
- Droned ominously
- Whispered fiercely
- Questioned sharply
- Choked out
- Repeated gravely
- Hinted darkly
- Exclaimed with urgency
- Protested faintly
- Murmured fearfully
- Spoke under duress
- Reassured tensely
- Called out with dread
Example Sentences
- “What’s going on out there?” she hissed, her voice barely audible.
- “We need to move, now,” he whispered harshly, urgency in his tone.
- “Did you hear that?” she gasped, freezing in place.
- “This doesn’t feel right,” he murmured tensely, scanning the room.
- “We’re not alone,” she growled, her eyes narrowing.
- “Stay quiet,” he barked, motioning for silence.
- “Something’s coming,” she uttered ominously, gripping his arm.
- “Get down!” he intoned, his voice urgent yet measured.
- “This isn’t a drill,” she warned, looking over her shoulder.
- “Don’t make a sound,” he stated flatly, his hand hovering over his weapon.
Formal and Professional Alternatives
For characters who need to maintain formality, these professional other words for said are ideal.
- Announced
- Declared
- Reiterated
- Confirmed
- Voiced
- Noted formally
- Articulated
- Explained
- Clarified
- Asserted
- Stated officially
- Communicated
- Informed
- Reported
- Advised
- Declared succinctly
- Summarized
- Expressed
- Detailed
- Admonished
- Instructed
- Proclaimed
- Directed
- Confirmed clearly
- Briefed
- Disseminated
- Outlined
- Presented
- Enumerated
- Documented
Example Sentences
- “Thank you for your time,” she announced, concluding her presentation.
- “I’d like to propose a solution,” he declared, stepping forward.
- “Here’s what I recommend,” she reiterated, pointing to the chart.
- “We’re pleased to inform you,” he confirmed, shaking hands with the client.
- “This decision is final,” she voiced, her tone unwavering.
- “Let’s proceed to the next item on the agenda,” he noted formally, adjusting his glasses.
- “Here are the key findings,” she articulated, gesturing to the slides.
- “I’d like to clarify something,” he explained, raising his hand.
- “Please ensure compliance,” she asserted, distributing the documents.
- “The contract has been approved,” he reported, smiling briefly.
Dramatic and Emotional Alternatives
Drama demands words that captivate readers. These other words for said heighten the emotion and intensity of your dialogue.
- Screamed
- Cried out
- Shrieked
- Yelled
- Roared
- Bellowed
- Sobbed
- Wailed
- Howled
- Lamented
- Protested
- Pleaded
- Called out
- Declared with passion
- Implored
- Exclaimed
- Moaned
- Shouted desperately
- Blurted out
- Spoke with fervor
- Uttered dramatically
- Yelped
- Begged
- Gasped
- Replied with anguish
- Choked out
- Repeated intensely
- Screeched
- Roared emotionally
- Thundered
Example Sentences
- “Why are you doing this?” she screamed, tears streaming down her face.
- “It’s all falling apart,” he cried out, his voice full of despair.
- “Leave me alone!” she shrieked, her voice echoing through the hallway.
- “This is my last chance,” he yelled, slamming his hand on the table.
- “How could you?” she roared, her emotions bursting to the surface.
- “Please, listen to me,” he pleaded, grabbing her hands.
- “I don’t know what else to do,” she sobbed, her voice trembling.
- “Don’t take this from me,” he wailed, his shoulders heaving.
- “I can’t lose you,” she implored, her voice breaking.
- “You’ve got to believe me,” he moaned, clutching his chest.
Check out this video about other words for said:
How to Choose the Best Said Alternative
| Category | Other Words for Said | When to Use Them |
|---|---|---|
| Happy and Cheerful | Chimed, Exclaimed, Giggled, Laughed, Cheered | When the character is joyful, celebratory, or sharing good news. |
| Sad and Somber | Sighed, Mumbled, Murmured, Sobbed, Lamented | To convey grief, regret, or a subdued tone. |
| Angry and Frustrated | Shouted, Roared, Snapped, Barked, Growled | When the character is expressing anger, impatience, or frustration. |
| Loving and Romantic | Whispered tenderly, Murmured, Coaxed, Purred | Use during intimate or emotionally vulnerable moments. |
| Fearful and Nervous | Stammered, Gasped, Quivered, Sputtered, Pleaded | For scenes of suspense, uncertainty, or fear. |
| Excited and Enthusiastic | Exclaimed, Yelped, Gushed, Cheered, Whooped | When the character is energetic, thrilled, or eagerly sharing something. |
| Commanding and Authoritative | Ordered, Demanded, Directed, Mandated | To show control, authority, or leadership in dialogue. |
| Confused and Doubtful | Questioned, Stuttered, Faltered, Murmured | To convey uncertainty, hesitation, or a lack of understanding. |
| Sarcastic and Snarky | Sneered, Snarked, Scoffed, Mocked, Quipped | For sarcastic, ironic, or humorously biting tones. |
| Neutral and Everyday | Stated, Mentioned, Replied, Added, Confirmed | When dialogue doesn’t need added emotional context or emphasis. |
| Whispered and Soft | Whispered, Murmured, Spoke delicately, Crooned | For quiet, secretive, or gentle exchanges. |
| Funny and Playful | Joked, Teased, Chuckled, Giggled, Snickered | When the character is being lighthearted, humorous, or playful. |
| Suspenseful and Tense | Hissed, Intoned, Uttered ominously, Warned | To heighten tension or convey a sense of foreboding. |
| Formal and Professional | Announced, Declared, Reported, Explained | For business, official, or structured settings where professionalism is key. |
| Dramatic and Emotional | Screamed, Cried out, Shrieked, Wailed, Implored | To add intensity, drama, or heightened emotion to a scene. |
Here’s how to select the perfect synonym to elevate your dialogue:
- Understand the Emotion Behind the Dialogue
The first step is to identify the emotion your character is feeling. Is it anger, joy, sorrow, or fear? For example, if your character is thrilled, words like “exclaimed” or “cheered” are great fits. If they’re nervous, “stammered” or “whispered” might work better. - Consider the Context
Context matters as much as emotion. For a formal setting, words like “announced” or “stated” are suitable. In a tense moment, “growled” or “hissed” can add suspense. Match the alternative to the scene’s tone and pacing. - Balance Variety with Clarity
While it’s tempting to avoid repetition at all costs, don’t let your word choice confuse readers. Overly obscure tags can distract from the dialogue. Use clear, familiar alternatives when appropriate and save the unique ones for moments that call for them. - Use Body Language and Action for Impact
Sometimes, the best alternative is no tag at all. Pairing dialogue with a strong action can eliminate the need for a dialogue tag entirely. For example:- Instead of “You can’t be serious,” she snarled.
- Try: “You can’t be serious.” She slammed her fist on the table.
- Avoid Overusing Showy Synonyms
Overly dramatic or flashy synonyms can feel out of place if used excessively. Reserve words like “bellowed” or “shrieked” for moments when the emotion truly calls for them. - Read Your Dialogue Aloud
Hearing your dialogue can help you gauge if the alternative fits naturally. If it sounds forced or overly elaborate, consider simplifying your choice.
Do You Always Need to Replace Said? (No, Here’s Why)
Absolutely not! While variety is important, “said” is a versatile and neutral dialogue tag that often works better than flashy alternatives.
Overusing creative synonyms can distract readers from the dialogue itself, making your writing feel forced or overly dramatic.
Here’s why “said” still deserves a place in your writing:
- Clarity and Simplicity
Readers are so accustomed to seeing “said” that they often skim over it, allowing them to focus on the dialogue and story. It’s like the punctuation of dialogue tags—functional and unobtrusive. - Avoiding Repetition of Character Actions
Using “said” can keep the focus on the dialogue rather than constantly pairing speech with actions or elaborate verbs. For example:- Instead of: “Let’s go,” she commanded, while waving her hand.
- Use: “Let’s go,” she said. She waved her hand.
- Supporting a Natural Flow
In fast-paced conversations, sticking with “said” avoids interrupting the rhythm of the exchange. It helps the dialogue flow naturally, especially in scenes with multiple speakers. - Letting the Words Speak for Themselves
The tone of the dialogue and surrounding context often make it clear how something is said. For example:- “I can’t believe this!” she said.
The exclamation mark already conveys excitement; a fancier tag like “exclaimed” is unnecessary.
- “I can’t believe this!” she said.
- Balancing Creativity
Not every line of dialogue needs a highly descriptive tag. Using “said” strategically allows more dramatic tags to shine when they’re truly needed.
Final Thoughts: Other Words for Said
With these creative alternatives, you’ll never need to write a boring “said” again.
Let your characters’ emotions and situations shine through every utterance. Whether they’re whispering tenderly or roaring in anger, there’s a perfect word waiting for you.