PHYSICAL FEATURE THESAURUS

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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:
Bend: curl, curve or double over, hook, stoop, arch, arc, bow
Twist: turn, swivel, jerk, pivot
Hurt: wrench, sprain, tweak, wrest, pull, wring, pinch, tear

EMOTIONS AND RELATED GESTURES:
Backs aren't noticed very much because they're always…well, in the back. But because of their central importance to the human body, the back and spine are involved in many emotional responses. They will slump when a person experiences sadness, disappointment, or embarrassment. Alternatively, they straighten to show pride, confidence, defensiveness, or anger. Surprise or fear can also cause the back to stiffen or freeze.

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