Like a bright red cherry on top of an already mesmerizing cocktail, certain words pack a punch that can liven up your entire body of writing. They can act like a pair of really flashy shoes, pulling together a generic outfit and making it memorable.

But which words to use? The English language has by far the highest volume of words to choose from than any other language. Which means you’re fresh out of excuses when you’re trying to find the right one. Now, what qualifies as “beautiful?” Beauty is, after all, in the eye of the beholder. And, in this particular case, dear readers, we are the beholders. Agree or disagree at your own volition. The real beauty in these words lies in their infrequency of use. It’s just refreshing to see rare words make an appearance in your everyday vocabulary so as to break the sameness of regularity.

So without further ado, here are some exceptionally striking words that we feel can carry the load of the rest when used properly. Give them a try. You’ll enjoy crafting your writing as much as your readers will enjoy reading it.

Poignant: (noun) evoking a sense of sadness or regret

Ephemeral: (adjective) short-lasting

Apt: (adjective) suitable in the given circumstance

Eloquence: (noun) using language in a fluent and persuasive way

Luminescence: (noun) light produced by artificial means

Effervescent: (adjective) containing bubbles in liquid

Entwine: (verb) to wind or twist together