[You must be logged in to view images. Log in or Register.]
I've always found this quote helpful. I have a tendency to use inappropriate connotations in situations where the word still works because I like how you can peoples' brains reboot when they hear the "wrong" word. I probably do that more when I'm speaking, but I do it here also because it amuses me. I also like to share stories from particularly crazy periods of my life to subtly tie it into current conversation.
In almost all circumstances, my audience focuses their attention on the more extreme part of the story or hurr you used the wrong word instead of the point I was trying to make. I chalk that up equally to my own weakness as a writer and my audiences' want of reading ability. Subtly is hard to do is the point I'm trying to make here. It is hard to use subtle language to get your point across. And finally, your audience will probably miss any subtly in your stories if you don't do it especially well.