Introduction
If your goal is to have an influential vocabulary, look no further than the words Shakespeare invented. The bard is renowned for contributing a multitude of expressions and words that we use in our everyday language, some of which you might unwittingly use on a daily basis; from ‘fashionable’ to ‘lonely’, the words invented by Shakespeare not only broadened the English language but articulated the human experience like never before.
Words Shakespeare Invented
Shakespeare, the world’s pre-eminent dramatist, had an uncanny knack for capturing the essence of human emotion and experience. He did not hesitate to create new words when he felt that the existing vocabulary fell short. So, what words did Shakespeare invent? Here are a few examples:
- Assassination: Used in ‘Macbeth’.
- Swagger: Found in ‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and ‘Henry V’.
- Lonely: Used in ‘Coriolanus’.
How To Use Shakespeare’s invented words
Wondering how to use such words into your vocabulary? Think about the context of the word. Go beyond just the Twitter character limit and immerse yourself in the actual play in which the word was invented. An understanding of the context will give you great insight into its use. Let’s take a look at some examples.
Example 1: Assassination from ‘Macbeth’
Original line from Shakespeare: “If it were done when ’tis done, then ’twere well / It were done quickly. If the assassination / Could trammel up the consequence…”
Usage example: The plot of the movie revolved around the planned assassination of the political leader.
Example 2: Swagger from ‘Henry V’
Original line from Shakespeare: “…He may not, as unvalued persons do, / Carve for himself; for on his choice depends / The safety and health of the whole state. / And therefore must his choice be circumscribed / Unto the voice and yielding of that body / Whereof he is the head. Then if he says he loves you, / It fits your wisdom so far to believe it.”
Usage example: He walked into the room with a bold swagger, immediately catching everyone’s attention.
Example 3: Lonely from ‘Coriolanus’
Original line from Shakespeare: “There is no more mercy in him than there is milk in a male tiger; that shall our poor city find: and all this is long of you [lonely].”
Usage: He lived in a lonely cabin in the woods.
Conclusion
Among the many words that Shakespeare invented, these are just a handful. His enchanting plays and sonnets are filled with words and phrases that have since embedded themselves into our daily vernacular. Reading the works of Shakespeare not only deepens your understanding of the English language but also broadens your perspective of human nature and its many intricacies. The wealth of expressions found in Shakespeare’s works is a testament to his genius and his legacy. So, next time you use words like lonely, assassination, or swagger, make sure to tip your hat to the bard who invented them!
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