In addition to their strict dictionary meanings (or denotations), words have connotations, emotional colorings that affect how readers respond to them. The word steel denotes “commercial iron that contains carbon,” but it also calls up a cluster of images associated with steel. These associations give the word its connotations—cold, hard, smooth, unbending.

If the connotation of a word does not seem appropriate for your purpose, your audience, or your subject matter, you should change the word. When a more appropriate synonym does not come quickly to mind, consult a dictionary or a thesaurus.

The word abandoned is too negative for the context.

The term perspiration is too dainty for the context, which suggests vigorous exercise.