Distinguishing Between Concrete and Abstract Language Common Places: Integrated Reading and Writing Copyright © McGraw-Hill Education.  All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.

Examples of Abstract Language Abstract language presents concepts and ideas that are difficult to envision. delicious love fuel economy memory opinion shelter rest religion habit beauty recreation science

In contrast to abstract ideas, concrete language presents objects. love In contrast to abstract ideas, concrete language presents objects. my cat In contrast to abstract ideas, concrete language refers to particular objects. chocolate cake delicious compact car fuel economy http://www.cdc.gov/animalimportation/cats.html http://recipes.millionhearts.hhs.gov/recipes/one-bowl-chocolate-cake http://www.safercar.gov/staticfiles/DOT/safercar/ncapmedia/images/2012/v07947P081.jpg

Objects are things and so are easier for us to picture in our minds. opinion People should eat more broccoli. Objects are things and so are easier for us to picture in our minds. energy shelter wind turbine house http://ods.od.nih.gov/images/content/Broccoli.jpg http://www.commerce.gov/sites/default/files/images/2012/september/energy_house_spring_2012_small.jpg http://www.defense.gov/DODCMSShare/NewsStoryPhoto/2005-03/screen_20050329172419_windmills2.jpg

Actions can also be described using concrete language. recreation rest lying in bed skiing Actions can also be described using concrete language. science habit Public domain. Courtesy of @Explore Minnesota Tourism http://women.smokefree.gov/depression-you%E2%80%99re-not-alone.aspx http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/magazine/issues/summer12/articles/summer12pg24.html http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/info/newsbytes/2010/453xtra_mosasaur_fossil.html brushing teeth examining fossils

The use of concrete language helps us visualize the ideas. On long weekends, I like to get away from it all and lose myself in nature. I have a place I go where I can indulge my love for visual beauty and serenity. Concrete language adds interest and helps readers understand your point. The abstract language in this paragraph makes it hard for us to picture the scene. On long weekends, I like to get away from my apartment in downtown Atlanta and lose myself in nature. I go to a small log cabin in the mountains off Valley Ridge Road. From the kitchen window in the cabin, I can see an eagle’s nest and Storm Mountain in the distance. The cabin is in a pine forest so quiet that you can hear every step you take. The use of concrete language helps us visualize the ideas.

Can’t you just envisage the scene described in the second paragraph above? http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/stelprdb5213573.jpg

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