[mykwyner]

I once had an English professor who said that there were no such things as synonyms. Each word has its own distinct meaning or range of meanings that will change from one reader or listener to the next.

The advice he gave me is the advice I will give to you: If you can't decide which of two (or more) similar words to use, try each. Look at the sentence and see which word is in visual harmony with the rest of the piece you are writing. Say the sentence aloud and listen to the rhythm and cadence of your choices. The fact that you are troubled by which word to choose should tell you that you consider this particular word important to your writing. Take your time; it will pay off.