How to Ensure Unique Character Voices in Writing

To write memorable characters, you need to know them on a deep level, understanding their thoughts and feelings. You have to empathize with them first if you want your audience to. But how do you ensure unique character voices in writing? Keep reading to find out.

One of the greatest joys of crafting a good story is the ability to breathe life into its characters. An important part of making a character stand out in a story is a strong and individual character voice. Each character should stand out in their way. If all the characters sound the same, readers may soon forget who is who.

Unique character voices in writing help readers feel more strongly about the characters themselves. They may relate to what the character is going through or become inspired by their willpower. A reader may feel as though they know the characters with the strongest voices, which will give them an attachment to your story and keep them reading. A well-written character leaps off the page and into readers’ hearts.

Before we dive into how to give each of your characters a unique voice, let’s first understand what character voice truly means. 

• Grab your free Character Info Sheet to help you get started!

Understanding Character Voice

Character voice is the distinct way a character expresses themselves through dialogue, body language, thoughts, and actions. Physical traits and mood are also important elements.

Character voice is a summary of who they are and how they appear on the page.

Why does character voice matter?

Creating unique character voices is like handing your readers a backstage pass to the minds of your characters. It allows them to form a deeper connection, empathize with their struggles, and root for their successes. When done correctly, it elevates your storytelling from mere words on a page to a vivid, immersive experience.

Types of character voices in writing

All characters have two types of voices: internal and external.

Internal voice is what your characters are thinking, but not saying out loud.

Example: “I smell like onions and garlic,” Sally thought, “but maybe he won’t notice.”

Most of the time, internal voices only appear in the first person. We get to hear what the character is thinking because the narrative closely follows the main character.

External voice is how characters speak to each other. It includes elements such as word choice and language.

Example: “You smell like pizza,” Charlie said with a big goofy smile.

                “Umm, thanks, I think,” replied Sally nervously.

How to Identify Unique Character Voices in Writing

Getting to Know Your Characters

The hardest part about crafting unique character voices in writing is “hearing” them first. You need to know your characters inside and out. A lot of authors combine these techniques to find their character voices:

1. Detailed character profiles

Start by creating comprehensive character profiles. Explore their histories, fears, dreams, quirks, and favorite childhood memories. The more intimate you become with your characters, the more authentic their voices will be.  

Here are some things to consider and some questions to ask yourself about your characters:

• Consider their personality, their most defining traits.
  • Are they extroverted or introverted?
  • Are they cruel or kind?
  • Are they quiet or boisterous?
  • Are they idealistic or cynical?
• Consider their stance and their attitude when dealing with the world.
  • Are they aggressive?
  • Are they withdrawn?
  • Are they dependent?
• Consider their defensive reflex.
  • Do they blush and get silent?
  • Do they get mad and push back?
  • Do they respond calmly while seething on the inside?
  • Do they judge immediately and feel offended?
  • Do they get angry immediately, then calm down and apologize?
• Consider their age.
  • A toddler will have a different vocabulary and conversational style than a high schooler or an elderly person.

2. Empathy is key

Put yourself in your characters’ shoes. Understand their past, present, and their hopes for the future. This deep level of empathy will infuse your characters with a genuine voice that resonates with readers.

Language and Diction

The words your characters choose are windows into their souls. Here’s how you can make sure their vocabulary is unique:

1. Tailored Vocabulary

Consider your character’s education, background, profession, and social status. A professor will speak differently from a high school dropout. Be sure to choose words that line up with who they are.

2. Slang, Jargon, and Expressions

Consider where your characters are from and their ethnic and geographic backgrounds. Every subculture has its own language. Embrace their language and let it shine through in their dialogue. This adds an authentic layer to their voice.

Speech Patterns and Rhythms

The rhythm and flow of speech are like a character’s heartbeat. Mastering this element helps craft a voice that is both memorable and relatable.

1. The Melody of Speech

Pay careful attention to the cadence and rhythm of your characters’ words. Do they speak in short, sharp bursts or long, flowing sentences? This sets the tone for their voice and provides a unique signature.

2. Cultural Influences

If your character comes from a specific culture or region, sprinkle in some linguistic quirks or regional idioms. This will ground them in their world and add a layer of authenticity.

Perspectives and Inner Monologue

Another important way to ensure unique character voices in writing is to take a minute to see the world through their eyes. This is crucial for nailing their voice.

1. Seeing Through Their Eyes

When writing from your characters’ perspectives, channel their thoughts and emotions. This will shape their voices greatly.

• How do they view the world?
• What are their private fears and hopes?

2. Balancing Inner and Outer Expression

Make sure that their internal monologue lines up with their external communication. This ensures that their voice resonates with readers. It also strengthens the authenticity of the characters.

Helpful Tips

The final improvement in crafting unique character voices in writing comes from practical exercises and external input. Here are two ways to do that:

1. The Power of Vocalization

Read your character’s lines out loud. Does it sound like them? This exercise will sharpen your ear for their voice and highlight areas that need refinement.

2. Friendly Input

Share your work with writing groups or trusted friends. Their feedback can help improve character voices. They might catch tones or inconsistencies that you may have missed.

Books I recommend:

*As an Amazon affiliate, I get a tiny commission if you choose to make a purchase.

• Creating Characters: The Complete Guide to Populating Your Fiction (Creative Writing Essentials)
• The Only Character Workbook You’ll Ever Need: Your New Character Bible

Looking for more writing tips? I recommend reading these:

• Should You Use Passive Voice in Fiction Writing?
• Master the Art of Sentence Structure with These Simple Rules
• 6 Crucial Grammar Tips for Fiction Writers
• Can I Place a Dialogue Tag Before the Character’s Speech? (Louise Harnby)