Words of Power
Words of Power: Unleashing Magical Energy[edit | edit source]
Words of Power are a fundamental aspect of magical practice, believed to possess inherent mystical properties that can influence the world around us. In essence, these words serve as conduits for channeling magical energy, allowing practitioners to manifest their intentions and desires through incantations and spells.
Most spellcasters spend their entire careers learning and mastering the spells that make up their calling, but there is another way. Some turn their backs on the rote memorization and formulae that traditional spellcasters use to create magic, and instead unlock the power behind the spells themselves, the fundamental building blocks of magic. Such a spellcaster learns the words of power, and through them, learns to control the very forces underlying magic, shaping and wielding them like no other.
While they function in much the same way as every other spellcaster, words of power spellcasters (or wordcasters, as they tend to call themselves) have a great deal of flexibility in how they prepare and cast their spells, which they call wordspells. Each wordcaster learns a number of words of power and, with some restrictions, can combine these words to create any effect he can dream up.
Origins and History[edit | edit source]
The origins of Words of Power can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where they were revered as sacred symbols imbued with divine significance. Throughout history, various cultures and magical traditions have developed their own lexicons of Words of Power, each with its unique meanings and associations.
In ancient Egypt, for example, hieroglyphs were considered Words of Power, believed to hold the essence of gods and goddesses. Similarly, in medieval Europe, Latin incantations were commonly used by practitioners of alchemy and mysticism to invoke supernatural forces.
Properties and Usage[edit | edit source]
Words of Power are believed to possess specific vibrational frequencies that resonate with the underlying energies of the universe. When spoken or written with focused intention, these words can manipulate these energies to bring about desired outcomes.
The effectiveness of Words of Power often depends on factors such as the clarity of intent, the skill of the practitioner, and the alignment of the words with natural forces and metaphysical principles. Additionally, the language, tone, and rhythm used in the recitation of Words of Power can enhance their potency.
Examples of Words of Power[edit | edit source]
Words of Power can encompass a wide range of terms, from simple commands to elaborate incantations.
Classic Examples[edit | edit source]
- "Abracadabra": A commonly recognized word used in stage magic, believed to originate from Aramaic and associated with the concept of creation and manifestation.
- "Avada Kedavra": A fictional spell from the Harry Potter series, representing the ultimate expression of dark magic and death.
- "Om": A sacred mantra in Hinduism and Buddhism, symbolizing the primordial sound of the universe and the essence of consciousness.
Ethical Considerations[edit | edit source]
While Words of Power can be potent tools for manifestation and transformation, they also carry ethical implications. Practitioners must exercise caution and responsibility in their use of Words of Power, ensuring that their intentions align with principles of harmlessness, integrity, and respect for free will.
Furthermore, practitioners should be mindful of the potential consequences of their actions and the ethical ramifications of manipulating metaphysical energies. Ultimately, the ethical use of Words of Power requires a deep understanding of magical ethics and a commitment to using magic for the highest good of all.
Power Word Classifications[edit | edit source]
Power Word Classifications categorize words based on their effects and intentions.
These classifications encompass a range of emotions, desires, and concepts, each with its own distinct power and influence.
- Fear Power Words
- Encouragement Power Words
- Lust Power Words
- Anger Power Words
- Greed Power Words
- Safety Power Words
- Forbidden Power Words
Power Word Classifications categorize words based on their effects and intentions. These classifications encompass a range of emotions, desires, and concepts, each with its own distinct power and influence.
Fear Power Words[edit | edit source]
Fear Power Words evoke primal instincts of dread, apprehension, and anxiety deep within the psyche of those who encounter them. These words possess a chilling resonance that sends shivers down the spine and raises hairs on end. When spoken or even whispered, they conjure images of lurking shadows, unseen terrors, and impending doom. Fear Power Words have the insidious ability to paralyze their victims with irrational terror, rendering them powerless to confront or escape the perceived threat. They lurk in the dark corners of the mind, waiting to be unleashed as potent tools of manipulation or intimidation.
Encouragement Power Words[edit | edit source]
Encouragement Power Words are like rays of sunshine on a cloudy day, lifting spirits and renewing hope in the hearts of those who hear them. These words are beacons of positivity and affirmation, offering unwavering support and validation to those in need. With their gentle cadence and uplifting resonance, Encouragement Power Words inspire confidence and motivate individuals to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. They serve as catalysts for personal growth and self-belief, fostering resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Encouragement Power Words have the transformative power to turn despair into determination and uncertainty into unwavering resolve.
Lust Power Words[edit | edit source]
Lust Power Words are like flames that ignite the passions and desires smoldering within the depths of the human soul. These words are charged with raw sensuality and primal longing, stirring the senses and awakening carnal urges that lie dormant within. With their seductive whispers and tantalizing promises, Lust Power Words fuel the fires of desire and drive individuals to seek gratification and fulfillment with reckless abandon. They evoke a heady rush of excitement and anticipation, blurring the boundaries between fantasy and reality. Lust Power Words have the intoxicating power to ensnare hearts and minds, leading individuals down a path of irresistible temptation and indulgence.
Anger Power Words[edit | edit source]
Anger Power Words are like sparks that ignite the fiery furnace of rage and indignation within the human spirit. These words are infused with the seething energy of resentment and frustration, fueling the flames of hostility and aggression. With their sharp edges and cutting tones, Anger Power Words lash out with ferocious intensity, inflicting wounds that cut deep and leave lasting scars. They incite chaos and discord, driving individuals to lash out in a storm of fury and righteous indignation. Anger Power Words are the weapons of choice for those seeking retribution and revenge, unleashing a torrent of pent-up emotions that can consume everything in their path.
Greed Power Words[edit | edit source]
Greed Power Words are like sirens that lure unsuspecting souls into the treacherous depths of avarice and covetousness. These words are steeped in the allure of material wealth and worldly possessions, promising untold riches and boundless prosperity to those who heed their call. With their honeyed tones and persuasive rhetoric, Greed Power Words seduce the senses and cloud the judgment, leading individuals down a path of selfishness and exploitation. They fan the flames of desire and stoke the fires of insatiable longing, driving individuals to pursue their own interests at any cost. Greed Power Words are the currency of ambition and ambition, offering tantalizing glimpses of a life of luxury and excess that few can resist.
Safety Power Words[edit | edit source]
Safety Power Words are like shields that offer sanctuary and protection in a world fraught with uncertainty and peril. These words are imbued with the soothing balm of reassurance and comfort, providing solace to those who seek refuge from the storms of life. With their gentle whispers and soothing cadence, Safety Power Words wrap their embrace around weary souls, offering sanctuary from the chaos and turmoil that surrounds them. They instill a sense of calm and tranquility, banishing fears and anxieties to the farthest reaches of the mind. Safety Power Words are the anchors that keep individuals grounded in times of crisis, providing a beacon of hope in the darkest of nights.
Forbidden Power Words[edit | edit source]
Forbidden Power Words are like forbidden fruits, tempting and alluring but fraught with danger and consequence. These words are steeped in mystery and intrigue, shrouded in the shadows of taboo and forbidden knowledge. With their whispered secrets and tantalizing promises, Forbidden Power Words beckon to those who dare to tread where others fear to go. They possess a dark allure that draws individuals into the depths of forbidden realms, offering glimpses of forbidden truths and hidden powers that lie beyond the veil of reality. Forbidden Power Words are the keys to unlocking forbidden knowledge and forbidden power, but they come at a price. To wield them is to dance with darkness and court the wrath of powers beyond mortal comprehension.
Becoming a Wordcaster[edit | edit source]
When a character gains the ability to cast spells from a class, he must decide whether to become a wordcaster or a normal spellcaster in that class. Once made, this choice cannot be changed. A character who elects to be a wordcaster in a spellcasting class typically cannot use the spells of that class (though there are feats that allow a wordcaster to learn and use a limited number of spells; see Word Caster Feats), but he can utilize spell trigger and spell completion items just as if he were an ordinary spellcaster of that class.
Words of Power in the World[edit | edit source]
Words of power represent a primal form of magic used in ages past. As such, use of the words of power system is rare these days, and its practitioners tend to be masters of esoteric lore. Words of power constitute a root system, from which all modern magic descends. Although powerful, this system is more primitive in some ways than modern magic. Flexible, but lacking the refinement of modern spells, this system allows spellcasters to shape magic in ways they never could before, while simultaneously preventing them from producing the same sort of incredibly specific effects that ordinary spellcasters master. It is not surprising that most magical institutions and centers for learning treat words of power as an archaic art, to be studied along with other historical matters, but not actually practiced. Those who delve into the lore of words of power often find themselves lost in an ancient art that they alone might now know. There is power there, but each wordcaster must find it alone.
Learning Words of Power[edit | edit source]
For a wordcaster, learning new words of power is akin to unlocking the secret laws of reality. Each word represents a new source of power that falls under the wordcaster’s control. Words of power fall into three
Categories[edit | edit source]
- Target Words
- Foundation of spells.
- Represent specific aspects of reality (e.g., fire, healing).
- Used to direct intentions with precision.
- Effect Words
- Modify and shape spell outcomes.
- Provide options for customization.
- Range from potency enhancements to altering effects.
- Meta Words
- Govern spell mechanics.
- Define parameters like range, duration, and intensity.
- Framework for structuring spells and controlling their potency.
Wordcasters arrange these words of power to cast powerful and diverse incantations known as wordspells. It should come as no surprise that most wordcasters obsessively learn as many words of power as their minds can comprehend.
Target Words[edit | edit source]
In the realm of wordcasting, Target Words serve as the foundation upon which spells are constructed. These words possess inherent properties that allow Wordcasters to influence specific aspects of reality. Target Words are like keys that unlock the potential of magic, enabling practitioners to direct their intentions with precision and clarity.
Each Target Word corresponds to a particular aspect of existence, such as elements, forces, or states of being. For example, a Target Word might represent fire, healing, protection, or transformation. By invoking these words with focused intent, Wordcasters can channel their energies towards achieving desired outcomes in the physical or metaphysical realms.
Effect Words[edit | edit source]
Effect Words are the tools through which Wordcasters shape the raw energies channeled through Target Words into tangible effects. These words act as modifiers, enhancing, altering, or refining the outcomes of wordcasting spells. Effect Words provide Wordcasters with a vast array of options for customizing their spells to suit specific purposes or situations.
Effect Words can range from simple modifiers, such as increasing the potency of a spell or extending its duration, to more complex concepts, such as altering the form or nature of the spell's effects. For example, an Effect Word might allow a Wordcaster to imbue their spells with additional elemental properties, change the trajectory of a magical projectile, or even manipulate the perceptions of those affected by the spell.
Meta Words[edit | edit source]
Meta Words are the meta-linguistic constructs that govern the parameters and mechanics of wordcasting itself. These words represent the underlying principles that govern how Target Words and Effect Words interact, as well as the rules that define the limits of wordcasting abilities.
Meta Words encompass concepts such as range, duration, intensity, and scalability, providing Wordcasters with the framework necessary to effectively wield their magical abilities. By mastering Meta Words, Wordcasters gain greater control over the scope and potency of their spells, allowing them to adapt their magic to a wide range of situations and challenges.
In essence, Meta Words serve as the grammar and syntax of wordcasting, allowing Wordcasters to structure their spells with precision and coherence. Mastery of Meta Words is essential for any aspiring Wordcaster, as it enables them to harness the full potential of their linguistic prowess and unlock the secrets of the universe itself.
Fear Power Words[edit | edit source]
| Agony | Lunatic |
| Apocalypse | Lurking |
| Armageddon | Massacre |
| Assault | Meltdown |
| Backlash | Menacing |
| Beating | Mired |
| Beware | Mistake |
| Blinded | Murder |
| Blood | Nightmare |
| Bloodbath | Painful |
| Bloodcurdling | Pale |
| Bloody | Panic |
| Blunder | Peril |
| Bomb | Piranha |
| Buffoon | Pitfall |
| Bumbling | Plague |
| Cadaver | Played |
| Catastrophe | Plummet |
| Caution | Plunge |
| Collapse | Poison |
| Corpse | Poor |
| Crazy | Prison |
| Cripple | Pummel |
| Crisis | Pus |
| Danger | Reckoning |
| Dark | Refugee |
| Deadly | Revenge |
| Death | Risky |
| Deceiving | Scary |
| Destroy | Scream |
| Devastating | Searing |
| Disastrous | Shame |
| Doom | Shatter |
| Drowning | Shellacking |
| Dumb | Shocked |
| Embarrass | Silly |
| Fail | Slaughter |
| Feeble | Slave |
| Fired | Strangle |
| Fool | Stupid |
| Fooled | Suicide |
| Frantic | Tailspin |
| Frightening | Tank |
| Gambling | Targeted |
| Gullible | Teetering |
| Hack | Terror |
| Hazardous | Terrorist |
| Hoax | Torture |
| Holocaust | Toxic |
| Horrific | Tragedy |
| Hurricane | Trap |
| Injure | Vaporize |
| Insidious | Victim |
| Epidemic | Cataclysmic |
| Bufoon | Suffering |
| Reckoning | Trauma |
| Dangerous | Annihilate |
| Invasion | Volatile |
| IRS | Vulnerable |
| Jail | Warning |
| Jeopardy | Nerd |
| Lawsuit | Wounded |
| Looming | Cringeworthy |
| Last chance | Fugacious |
| Worry | Wreaking havoc |
Encouragement Power Words[edit | edit source]
| Amazing | Jubilant |
| Ascend | Legend |
| Astonishing | Life-changing |
| Astounding | Magic |
| Audacious | Marvelous |
| Awe-inspiring | Master |
| Awesome | Mind-blowing |
| Backbone | Miracle |
| Badass | Miraculous |
| Beat | Noble |
| Belief | Perfect |
| Blissful | Persuade |
| Bravery | Phenomenal |
| Breathtaking | Pluck |
| Brilliant | Power-up |
| Celebrate | Praise |
| Cheer | Prevail |
| Colossal | Remarkable |
| Command | Revel |
| Conquer | Rule |
| Courage | Score |
| Daring | Seize |
| Defeat | Sensational |
| Defiance | Spectacular |
| Delight | Spine |
| Devoted | Spirit |
| Dignity | Splendid |
| Dominate | Spunk |
| Effortless | Staggering |
| Empower | Strengthen |
| Epic | Striking |
| Excellent | Strong |
| Excited | Stunning |
| Extraordinary | Stunt |
| Eye-opening | Supreme |
| Fabulous | Surprising |
| Faith | Terrific |
| Fantastic | Thrive |
| Fearless | Thwart |
| Ferocious | Titan |
| Fierce | Tough |
| Force | Triumph |
| Fulfill | Tremendous |
| Glorious | Unbeatable |
| Glory | Unbelievable |
| Graceful | Unforgettable |
| Grateful | Unique |
| Grit | Unleash |
| Guts | Uplifting |
| Happy | Valiant |
| Heart | Valor |
| Hero | Vanquish |
| Honor | Victory |
| Hope | Win |
| Incredible | Wonderful |
| Jaw-dropping | Wondrous |
| Kudos | Brighten |
| Lovable | Radiant |
| Flawless | Classy |
| Affable | Stupendous |
| Virtuoso | Cheery |
| Openhearted | Jovial |
| Beauteous | Logophile |
| Adorable |
Lust Power Words[edit | edit source]
| Allure | Naughty |
| Arouse | Nude |
| Bare | Obscene |
| Begging | Orgasmic |
| Beguiling | Passionate |
| Brazen | Pining |
| Captivating | Pleasure |
| Charm | Provocative |
| Cheeky | Racy |
| Climax | Raunchy |
| Crave | Risque |
| Delight | Rowdy |
| Delirious | Salacious |
| Depraved | Satisfy |
| Desire | Saucy |
| Dirty | Scandalous |
| Divine | Seduce |
| Ecstasy | Seductive |
| Embrace | Sensual |
| Enchant | Sex |
| Enthralling | Shameless |
| Entice | Sinful |
| Entrance | Sleazy |
| Excite | Sleeping |
| Explicit | Spank |
| Exposed | Spellbinding |
| Fascinate | Spicy |
| Forbidden | Steamy |
| Frisky | Stimulating |
| Goosebumps | Strip |
| Hanker | Sweaty |
| Heavenly | Tantalizing |
| Hottest | Taste |
| Hypnotic | Tawdry |
| Impure | Tease |
| Indecent | Tempting |
| Intense | Thrilling |
| Intoxicating | Tickle |
| Itching | Tight |
| Juicy | Tingle |
| Kinky | Turn on |
| Kiss | Unabashed |
| Lascivious | Uncensored |
| Lewd | Untamed |
| Lick | Untouched |
| Lonely | Urge |
| Longing | Voluptuous |
| Love | Vulgar |
| Pleasurable | Charismatic |
| Riveting | Obsession |
| Mouthwatering | Compelling |
| Magnetic | Enchanting |
| Lovely | Engaging |
| Intriguing | Fascinating |
| Flirt | Alluring |
| Lure | Wanton |
| Luscious | Wet |
| Lush | Whip |
| Lust | Wild |
| Mischievous | X-rated |
| Mouth-watering | Yearning |
| Naked | Yummy |
| Sneak peek | Promiscuous |
Anger Power Words[edit | edit source]
| Abhorrent | Money-grubbing |
| Abuse | Nasty |
| Annoying | Nazi |
| Arrogant | No good |
| Ass kicking | Obnoxious |
| Backstabbing | Oppressive |
| Barbaric | Pain in the ass |
| Bash | Payback |
| Beat down | Perverse |
| Big mouth | Pesky |
| Blatant | Pest |
| Brutal | Phony |
| Bullsh*t | Pissed off |
| Bully | Pollute |
| Cheat | Pompous |
| Clobber | Pound |
| Clown | Preposterous |
| Cocky | Pretentious |
| Corrupt | Punch |
| Coward | Punish |
| Crooked | Rampant |
| Crush | Ravage |
| Curse | Repelling |
| Debase | Repugnant |
| Defile | Revile |
| Delinquent | Revolting |
| Demolish | Rotten |
| Desecrate | Rude |
| Disgusting | Ruined |
| Dishonest | Ruthless |
| Distorted | Savage |
| Evil | Scam |
| Exploit | Scold |
| Force-fed | Sick and tired |
| Foul | Sink |
| Freaking out | Slam |
| Full of sh*t | Slander |
| Greedy | Slap |
| Gross | Slay |
| Harass | Smash |
| Hate | Smear |
| High and mighty | Smug |
| Horrid | Sniveling |
| Infuriating | Snob |
| Jackass | Snooty |
| Kick | Snotty |
| Kill | Spoil |
| Knock | Stuck up |
| Knock out | Suck |
| Know it all | Terrorize |
| Lies | Trash |
| Livid | Trounce |
| Loathsome | Tyranny |
| Loser | Underhanded |
| Lying | Up to here |
| Maul | Useless |
| Broke | Stink |
| Fear | Raise hell |
| Sneaky | Screw |
| Rant | Miff |
| Diatribe | Vicious |
| Weak | Diminish |
| Provoke | Hostile |
| Morally bankrupt | Worst |
| Thug | B.S. |
| Agitate | Boil over |
| Annoy | Violent |
| Misleading | Violate |
| Lollygag | Quixotic |
Greed Power Words[edit | edit source]
| Bank | Jackpot |
| Bargain | Lowest price |
| Best | Luxurious |
| Billion | Marked down |
| Bonanza | Massive |
| Booked solid | Money |
| Cash | Money-draining |
| Cheap | Money-saving |
| Costly | Nest egg |
| Discount | Pay zero |
| Dollar | Prize |
| Double | Profit |
| Explode | Quadruple |
| Extra | Reduced |
| Feast | Rich |
| Fortune | Savings |
| Don’t miss out | Fast |
| Giveaway | While they last |
| Instantly | Expires |
| Never again | Premiere |
| Final | More |
| Hurry | Sale ends soon |
| Value | Monetize |
| Big | Save |
| New | Deadline |
| Handsome | Noteworthy |
| Kick ass | Moneymaking |
| Knockout | Lucky |
| Notable | Amplify |
| At the top | Attractive |
| Wealthy | Ahead of the game |
| Legendary | Beautiful |
| Optimal | Good-looking |
| Successful | Bold |
| Fortunate | Sassy |
| Smart | Elegant |
| Gorgeous | Clever |
| Foxy | Quick-witted |
| Genius | Effective |
| Elite | Drop-dead |
| Crowned | Dazzling |
| You | Turbo charge |
| Bright | Super-human |
| Brassy | Booming |
| Boss | Unbeaten |
| Undefeated | Boost |
| Exclusive / Exclusivity | Frugal |
| Special | Price break |
| Before | Running out |
| Upsell | Bonus |
| Free | Six-figure |
| Freebie | Skyrocket |
| Frenzy | Soaring |
| Prosperous | Surge |
| Gift | Treasure |
| Golden | Triple |
| Greatest | Waste |
| High-paying | Wealth |
| Inexpensive | Whopping |
| Cheat sheet |
Safety Power Words[edit | edit source]
| Above and beyond | Privacy |
| Anonymous | Professional |
| Authentic | Protected |
| Automatic | Proven |
| Backed | Recession-proof |
| Bankable | Refund |
| Best-selling | Reliable |
| Cancel anytime | Research |
| Certified | Results |
| Clockwork | Risk-free |
| Endorsed | Rock-solid |
| Foolproof | Science-backed |
| Guaranteed | Scientific |
| Moneyback | Bona fide |
| Recognized | Authority |
| Studies show | Because |
| Scientifically proven | Genuine |
| Worldwide | Authoritative |
| Safety | Accredited |
| Fully refundable | Case study |
| Well respected | Dependable |
| Improved | Ensured |
| Expert | According to |
| Track record | Approved |
| Ironclad | Secure |
| Legitimate | Sure-fire |
| Lifetime | Survive |
| Money-back | Tested |
| No obligation | That never fails |
| No questions asked | Thorough |
| No risk | Trustworthy |
| No strings attached | Try before you buy |
| No-fail | Unconditional |
| Official | Verify |
| Permanent | World-class |
| Guilt-free | Don’t worry |
Forbidden Power Words[edit | edit source]
| Ancient | Lost |
| Backdoor | Never seen before |
| Banned | Off the record |
| Behind the scenes | Off-limits |
| Black Market | Outlawed |
| Blacklisted | Private |
| Bootleg | Restricted |
| Censored | Sealed |
| Remote | Be the first |
| Ridiculous | Become an insider |
| Secrets | Bizarre |
| Shocking | Class full |
| Ssshhh!!! | Closet |
| Spoiler | Elusive |
| Supersecret | Hilarious |
| Thought-provoking | Illusive |
| Top secret | Incredibly |
| Trade secret | Insane |
| Uncharted | Interesting |
| Unconventional | Invitation only |
| Undiscovered | Key |
| Unexplained | Login required |
| Unexplored | Members only |
| Unheard of | Myths |
| Unsung | Odd |
| Untold | On the QT |
| Unusual | Priceless |
| Wacky | Privy |
| Zany | Psycho |
| Classified | Secret |
| Cloak and dagger | Smuggled |
| Concealed | Strange |
| Confessions | Tried to hide |
| Confidential | Unauthorized |
| Controversial | Uncensored |
| Covert | Under wraps |
| Cover-up | Undercover |
| Exotic | Underground |
| Forbidden | Under-the-table |
| Forgotten | Undisclosed |
| From the vault | Unexpected |
| Under the table | Unlock |
| Hush-hush | Unreachable |
| Illegal | Unspoken |
| Insider | Unveiled |
| Little-known | Withheld |
| Hidden |
Now that we’ve looked at the different types of power words (and gone over a few quick examples), let’s go over all the different places you can use them:
Powerful Words in Action: 14 Places Where Strong Words Can Help You[edit | edit source]
- Headlines
- Subheads
- Email Subject Lines
- Opt-In Boxes
- Homepage
- Business Names/Blog Names
- Product Names
- Sales Pages
- Testimonials
- Bullet Lists
- Button Copy (Call to Action Words)
- Author Bios
- YouTube Videos
- Book Titles
1. Using Power Words in Headlines[edit | edit source]
Any writer or blogger who’s been in the game for a while knows the headline is the most important part of writing your blog post.
Its purpose, after all, is to entice the reader to read the rest of your content. If your headline fails to get attention, potential readers will ignore it when it shows up in their tweets and social media feeds.
Download All 801+ Power Words(in one handy, free PDF)
And just one or two power words in your headline is usually enough to make it stand out.
Just look at this headline from BuzzFeed:
The word choice of “Unveiled” makes it feel like a secret is being exposed, and the word “Breathtaking” makes you curious to see what the photo looks like.
Here’s another example from BoredPanda:
People generally love anything adorable, so this headline will easily catch attention. (The fact that it refers to snakes will only make people more curious.)
The headline then drives it home by using the power verb “Conquer.”
Here’s one from BrightSide:
While one or two power words are often enough, this headline proves you can use more when it fits.
This headline has four powerful words, but they feel natural in the headline, which keeps it from feeling like over-the-top clickbait.
Here’s one from Smart Blogger:
Greed (“best”) and anger (“not-so-good”) words highlight the headline for Smart Blogger’s recent review of SiteGround.
Last one:
This headline from our How to Make Money Writing: 5 Ways to Get Paid to Write in 2024 post incorporates two greed words: “money” and “get paid.”
It’s one of our most popular posts, and its headline’s use of power words is a big reason why.
2. Using Power Words in Subheads[edit | edit source]
Too many writers overlook the value of subheads, which is a mistake. Once people click on your headline, most will scan the post first to see if it looks worthy of their attention.
Adding some power words to your subheads is a good way to make your post look like an interesting read.
For example, here are three subheads from our post on E-book mistakes:
See how the power words in these subheads grab your attention and make you want to read the text that follows?
Power words can help with SEO too. Adding an SEO power word to your subheads will compel readers to stick around longer, which will increase your dwell time — a big deal in Google’s eyes.
3. Using Power Words in Email Subject Lines[edit | edit source]
Having an email list is of little use if only a handful of readers bother to open your emails.
And these days, most people’s inboxes are flooded, so they’re selective in which emails they open.
You can stand out in their inbox and raise your open rates by including power words in your subject lines.
Just look at this one from Ramit Sethi:
If this subject line would’ve read “The rules of learning,” do you think it would be as appealing? The powerful word “unspoken” is what makes it interesting.
Here’s another one from Cal Fussman:
Both “Triumph” and “Tragedy” are powerful words full of emotion.
And finally, here’s a good example from AppSumo:
The power phrase “Unleash the power” makes you feel this email is hiding something incredibly powerful inside.
See how that works?
When you send out emails to your list, try to add a strong word to your subject line so it stands out in a prospect’s inbox.
4. Using Power Words in Opt-In Boxes[edit | edit source]
As a blogger, one of your main goals is to grow a large and engaged readership, and the best way to do it is by converting readers into subscribers.
That means — unless you’re using a blogging platform like Medium which doesn’t allow them — you should have opt-in forms scattered across your website.
You can place them on your homepage, at the end of your posts, in your sidebar, in a popup, or anywhere else.
But no matter where you place them, your opt-in boxes must catch people’s eye and make them want to share their email address with you. Because they won’t give it away to just anyone.
(Remember, their inboxes are already flooded, so they’re not necessarily eager to get even more emails.)
Fortunately, you can use power words to make your offer more enticing.
As an example, here’s an old popup from Cosmopolitan:
This popup had power words everywhere, but it avoided feeling like overkill. I bet it converted like crazy.
Here’s a slightly more subtle example from Betty Means Business:
It’s understated, but still quite effective.
Again, you don’t have to overdo it with the power words on these. A little can go a long way.
Here’s one final example from Renegade Planner:
In short:
If you’re not using power words in your opt-in boxes, you’re missing out.
Big time.
5. Using Power Words on Your Homepage[edit | edit source]
Your homepage is the face of your website and it’s usually one of the most visited pages. Many people who visit your website will see this page first, so you want it to make a good first impression.
Some people use their homepage to promote their email list, others use it to promote one of their products, and others use it as a red carpet — welcoming new visitors and explaining what their site is all about.
In any case, your homepage is a good spot to add a few power words, as it can determine whether people stay (and take the action you want them to take) or leave (never to return).
Look at this value proposition on the homepage for Nerd Fitness:
“Nerds,” “Misfits,” and “Mutants” are unusual power words that work well for Nerd Fitness’ target audience. These words immediately separate it from all the other fitness blogs out there.
But they push it even further with “Strong,” “Healthy,” and “Permanently.”
Here’s another value proposition from MainStreetHost’s homepage:
It’s quite minimal, isn’t it? They just wrote down three power words and follow it up with a service they provide.
Of course, you don’t have to limit your use of power words to the top of your homepage.
You can use it in other parts of the homepage too, as Ramit Sethi does here in his list of what you’ll get when you sign up for his email list:
Go look at your homepage now and see if you can find any areas you can spruce up with some power words.
6. Using Power Words in Business Names/Blog Names[edit | edit source]
Having a forgettable name is poison to your website’s growth. So when you start a blog, you want to make sure you have a name people can easily recall.
If you haven’t chosen your blog name yet (or if you’re thinking about rebranding), you should use a SEO power word to give it some punch. The right word will make you stand out from all the boring, forgettable brands out there.
Just take a look at the collection of blog names below and see how well they’ve incorporated power words:
7. Using Power Words in Product Names[edit | edit source]
Just like you can use power words to spruce up your blog name, you can also use them to make your product names pack more of a punch.
It can make the difference between your potential customers thinking, “Ooh, this product sounds cool!” and them thinking, “Meh.”
Just check out this subscription product from Nerd Fitness:
It has such a powerful name that you’d almost want to sign up without learning anything else about it. Who wouldn’t want to be part of a community of rising heroes?
Here’s another good example from Pat Flynn:
It’s a powerful name for his podcasting course that instantly informs you of the benefit.
So if you’re about to launch a product (or if you’ve launched a product with a tepid name), consider giving it a power word to make it pack a punch.
8. Using Power Words on Sales Pages[edit | edit source]
You can also use power words to spruce up the copywriting on your sales pages and make them more effective at selling your e-commerce products or services.
They will grab people’s attention when they arrive on the page, they will keep their attention as they scroll down, and they’ll help seduce readers before they reach your “buy” button.
Just look at this headline on Ramit Sethi’s sales page for his product 50 Proven Email Scripts (which also has a power word in its name):
And as you scroll down, you see he keeps using power words throughout his sales page.
His headline is followed by emotion-packed subheads:
And he even uses power words in his guarantee:
9. Using Power Words in Testimonials[edit | edit source]
Power words are also tremendously effective in testimonials.
Of course, I’m not suggesting you change people’s testimonials to include power words. But you can certainly select the ones that already use them to great effect.
Just look at this example from Betty Means Business:
Or look at this one from Farideh’s blog:
And here’s another example from Renegade Planner:
All these testimonials will lend extra credibility and excitement due to their power words and phrases.
10. Using Power Words in Bullet Lists[edit | edit source]
Many sales pages include a list of benefits of the product they’re selling. Many opt-in forms include a huge list of reasons you should sign up to their email list. And many case studies use bullet lists to quickly summarize information.
You can use power words in these lists to inspire more excitement in your reader as they read through them.
Here’s one example from Ramit Sethi’s sales page for his How to Talk to Anyone course:
And here’s another example from an opt-in form on Restart Your Style:
Without these power words, these lists wouldn’t convince nearly as many prospects to buy or subscribe.
11. Using Power Words in Button Copy and CTA (Call to Action Words)[edit | edit source]
Yep, you can use power words in your CTA button copy too — even if you only have a few words you can fit in there.
One of the most common power words used in buttons is “Free” (as in the example below):
But you can be more creative with buttons than you might think.
Takes this button from the sales page for the book The Renegade Diet:
“Immediate,” “Money Back,” and “Guarantee” are all incredibly powerful words, and the author manages to squeeze them all into one button.
Here’s an example from Tim Ferris:
He could’ve used “Send Me the List” as most people would do, but the specific word “Unlock” makes it sound a lot more intriguing — like you’re getting access to something that’s been kept hidden away.
Now take a look at the buttons on your site.
Do you see any opportunities to spruce them up with a power word?
12. Using Power Words in Author Bios[edit | edit source]
Your author bio is another extremely important part of your marketing.
When you guest post for another blog (or write a paid article as a freelancer), your author bio has the difficult job of making readers want to know more about you so they click through to your site.
That means your author bio needs to spark attention and interest. And you usually only get three sentences, so you need to carefully consider the words you use.
As an example, here’s the author bio from Henneke Duistermaat in her ultimate guide on overcoming writer’s block:
Henneke’s author bio is full of power words. It shows her uniqueness and makes her stand out from other copywriters.
You can tell she has carefully picked each perfect word for maximum impact.
Here’s another example from Sarah Peterson’s post on blog ads:
She opens strong immediately by mentioning her guides are insanely useful. And just the name of her report alone is full of power words: “Free,” “Reveal,” and “Begging.”
Makes you want to get your hands on that report, doesn’t it?
13. Using Power Words on YouTube Videos[edit | edit source]
If you’re publishing videos on YouTube and you want to get more views, you should use power words in your titles.
All the biggest YouTube channels do this.
They understand most of their views will come from their subscribers finding them in their feeds, and from people finding them in the sidebar of other videos.
In both cases, you’re competing with many other videos for their attention. If you want your video to stand out and be the one they choose to watch, your title has to be captivating.
See how Philip DeFranco does it below:
“Disgusting,” “Punishment,” and “Controversy” are all attention-grabbing words (and that’s besides the attention-grabbing names of Brock Turner, Star Wars, and Kim Kardashian).
Note also how he has capitalized “Disgusting.” It’s another smart trick many YouTube channels use to stand out more in YouTube’s lists of video suggestions.
Style vlogger Aaron Marino often does it as well:
By capitalizing the power words “Don’ts” and “Stupid,” his title catches a lot more attention (as you can see for yourself by the millions of views it’s received).
14. Using Power Words in Book Titles[edit | edit source]
If you’re interested in writing your own book, adding power words to your titles will help it sell better.
With all the competition in the book market these days, you need a title that grabs people’s attention and makes them want to peek inside.
Here are a few quick grabs from Amazon’s list of bestsellers in the self-help niche:
I’m sure you’ve seen this title before.
You might say Stephen Covey’s use of power words in his title has been highly effective. (See what I did there?)
Here’s another:
Mark Manson’s bestselling title is packed with power.
The power word “Subtle” juxtaposes well with the F-bomb in the title, and his use of “Counterintuitive” will spark some interest as well.
One more:
Lastly, Jen Sincero’s encouraging book title makes you want to flip it open and read it in one go. The use of “Badass” alone will make it stand out in the self-development section, but her use of “Greatness” and “Awesome” in the subtitle truly seals the deal.
