Compound Words As Writing Prompts

Ok, maybe I’ve seen one too many DBZ fusion parodies, but I think this could be a fun writing exercise.

A Compound Word Writing Prompt

The Process

1. Pick a compound word OR take the idea of compound words (two individual ideas joined into one) OR make up a compound word (that could be interesting)
2. Use your choice for 1 as inspiration for worldbuilding. It could be a character, a race, an object, a form of magic, part of the setting, or more.

An Example: Fire Fighter

We all know what a fire fighter is in our world, but what would that mean in another world? Here are some ideas that could be explored (and there are many more options, I’m sure!).

1. A magical or technological being that serves the same purpose
2. A person or creature’s title that has been passed down but now means something wildly different
3. A name adopted by a group as an ideological representation
4. A warrior class (What if “Fire” is slang for a sentient race?)

You could also use the compound word for the inspiration for a new compound word and use that for the rest of the exercise. For example, what would a Water Fighter be? Or a Fire Taker?

Changing one part of the compound word makes a huge difference in the potential meaning.

The Outcome

This could make for some really interesting worldbuilding. There are so many possibilities, and the inherent strangeness of a lot of them automatically pulls you in. I can’t wait to see what people come up with.

You guys will share if you come up with something fun, right? Right? (Please?)