What term describes the choice of words an author uses in their writing?

The term that best describes the choice of words an author uses in their writing is diction. Diction encompasses not only the type of words chosen but also their connotations, the formality or informality of the language, and the overall level of precision or vagueness. It plays a crucial role in establishing the tone and style of a piece of writing, influencing how the reader interprets the text and connects with its content.

While syntax refers to the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences, and imagery involves the use of vivid and descriptive language to create mental images, diction specifically focuses on the words themselves. Connotation, on the other hand, relates to the implied or associated meanings of words, which is only part of the broader concept of diction. Thus, diction is the most accurate term for describing an author’s choice of words.