NaNoWriMo is all about getting words down on paper (or digital /virtual paper). We reach for the handy words we know. We use the ones we use everyday. They get boring, but accomplish the task. Don’t be afraid to use whatever words you have that are readily available when writing your novel in November.
Still, having a fresh supply of words can ease the writing journey. I’ve made a vocabulary jar that I keep on hand to inspire me through the month. Words I’ve thought were interesting, or sensual, or aggravating or whatever! I write them on a strip of paper and add them to my vocabulary jar. And when I get stuck or feel flat, I reach into my jar and pull out a word, use it, and get moving again. Pretty words are the ones I like best.
But if you want to add some “ugly” to your novel (appropriate for some scenes. We can’t have only beautiful!), check out this blog: https://www.verblio.com/blog/ugliest-words-english-language
Or maybe you want to contrast the beautiful with the ugly! Grab some of these words to help: https://www.writerswrite.co.za/100-beautiful-and-ugly-words/
Or you could just pick up a copy of this book for a ready reference! https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43253903-the-illustrated-compendium-of-ugly-english-words
Or of course, you could make your own list or add your favorite ugly words to your vocabulary jar. Just remember, it’s all about words. Be ready to let them flow!