Word retrieval (also called word finding) is a key skill for communication.
When people choose specific words to communicate their ideas, they’re using word retrieval skills.
People who struggle with word retrieval often have trouble finding the right word for what they want to say or write.
When we talk or write, we choose specific words to communicate what we want to say. We choose words to “paint a picture” of the story we’re telling. This skill is called word retrieval (or word finding).
The terms word retrieval and word finding make a lot of sense. We’re trying to find the right word, or retrieve it from our brain. And when that word doesn’t come out or we can’t remember it, we’re having trouble with word retrieval. This can happen even if we know a word well and use it often.
It’s kind of like looking for a book in a library that doesn’t have a good filing system. Even if you know what the book looks like, you have to search all the shelves to find it.
To have trouble with word retrieval, a person must know the word already. You can’t use a word that you never learned. It’s when you know the word, but can’t pull it up, that you have a problem.
Dive Deeper
When people have trouble with word retrieval, it can show up in different ways. Here are some examples:
A slip-of-the-tongue error may happen when someone says words that are related in some way to the word they want to say. For example: “They got into a big car. No, it’s like a van. No, no, it’s a train.”
A tip-of-the-tongue error may happen when the exact word won’t come out. So instead, a person describes the word. For example: “Oh, you know, that thing. It’s that thing we rode on, remember? On a track. It moves fast and takes us to the city.” (train)
A sound representation error may happen when a person substitutes another real or made-up word that sounds alike. For example: “We went to the city in public — you know, I can’t say long words — it’s like a tampination.” (transportation)
It may not always be obvious right away when young kids struggle with word retrieval.
Instead of slips of the tongue, they may point or use gestures to communicate. Since this is typical development for young kids who are learning to talk, families and schools may miss signs until kids are older.
As kids get older, trouble with word retrieval can cause behavior challenges. For example, a child who is frustrated about not being understood may have an outburst.
People may struggle with word retrieval for many reasons. Among younger people, a common cause is learning and thinking differences. Any of the following can impact speech:
Language disorders
Dyslexia
ADHD
Challenges with executive function
Other causes are also possible, especially for adults. Here are some conditions that can create trouble with word retrieval:
There are many ways to help people with word retrieval problems. It’s important to look for patterns. Kids and adults often struggle to pull up the right word in specific situations.
When tired
When anxious
When stressed or under pressure
When sick
For example, someone who has social anxiety may have a hard time getting words out in social situations. If you can identify the pattern, you can come up with strategies for what to do when you struggle to find a word. Knowing you have a plan can lessen anxiety, which can make word finding easier.
With young kids who point or use gestures to communicate, it helps to say the word of an object when handing it to them. (For example, if the child is pointing at juice, say “juice” and give it to them.)
With older kids, try to have an honest talk about how they would like you to support them. Some kids just want you to be patient while they find the word. Others might want you to say the word. Or they may want to use a secret sign when they need help.
Another way to help is to play games. Popular games like Zingo, charades, or “I spy” are great ways for kids to build word skills. While older kids and adults may enjoy games, they may need more specific practice or therapy.
