PHYSICAL FEATURE THESAURUS

ARMS



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HELPFUL TIP:

Physical features should do more than simply describe how a character looks. Just like their occupation or area of giftedness, a character's appearance can say a great deal about them. Hinting at traits through clothing choices, alluding to an emotional state through movements, and highlighting certain details for comparison or contrast purposes can help readers form opinions on who the character really is.
DESCRIPTORS AND KEY ELEMENTS:
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COMMON ACTIONS AND ALTERNATIVE WORDS TO DENOTE THEM:
Carry: lift, heft, hoist, lug, shift, take, tote, move
Hold: clamp, clinch, clutch, grasp, grip, squeeze, lock, ensnare, hook, trap
Hug: embrace, squeeze, enfold, hold, clasp, cuddle, snuggle

EMOTIONS AND RELATED GESTURES:
In times of excitement, a person's gestures become large and animated. Arms will often flap, wave, pump, flail, or gesticulate wildly. People may also embrace others in their exuberance.

Anger is often expressed by a tightening of the muscles, making the arms seem stiffened or hardened. Angry characters will often cross their arms, reinforcing the tight and closed-off look.

SIMILE AND METAPHOR EXAMPLES:
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CLICHÉS TO AVOID:
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BODY DESCRIPTION NOTES:
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