Are you writing a taxi in your novel? Would some tips on how to describe a taxi in a story help you? Check out the 10 words below!
1. Rapid
Definition
Something that moves very fast.
Examples
“He hailed the first taxi he saw and hoped it was rapid enough to get him to the party on time.”
“The passengers clutched the door handles as the rapid cab weaved through the streets of London.”
How it Adds Description
The word “rapid” shows that the fictional taxi moves faster than other vehicles, which can help characters reach their destination quickly, thus furthering the novel’s plot. In addition, a “rapid” taxi might be driven by a skilled driver, allowing you to introduce a new character to the story. “Rapid” could also imply the taxi is a state-of-the-art vehicle, as it is capable of top speeds.
2. Outdated
Definition
Something that’s no longer in fashion or useful in modern life.
Examples
“When the taxi arrived at the house, the family was instantly disappointed by its hopelessly outdated appearance.”
“She enjoyed the journey more because of the outdated style of the vehicle. Its old decor felt almost comforting to her.”
How it Adds Description
“Outdated” can be used to show that the taxi is old or not up to the current regulations. It can also point out that the taxi’s decor is obviously old-fashioned, which could irritate characters who prefer modern or luxurious things. However, some characters might find the “outdated” taxi charming, especially if they grew up in the era of its manufacture.
3. Freaky
Definition
Something that’s in some way unusual or different.
Examples
“The car that took them from the airport to the hotel was freaky, but they had no other choice of transport.”
“His fear of taxis was irrational, but the idea of a freaky vehicle appearing at his doorstep sent shivers down his spine.”
How it Adds Description
You can show your fictional taxi is strange or weird via “freaky.” This adjective has negative connotations; therefore, characters might feel anxious or scared of the “freaky” car. “Freaky” could also indicate that the taxi driver is unusual, as they choose to drive an unorthodox taxi.
4. Reliable
Definition
Something that is trusted to work well or always behaves correctly.
Examples
“The taxis from my local company are super reliable, I promise.”
“I don’t care what the cab looks like. Just make sure it’s reliable! I want to get there on time and without any funny business.”
How it Adds Description
If you want to describe a taxi that’s trustworthy, provides safe journeys, and always arrives on time, “reliable” is an excellent adjective to use. This shows that the characters trust the taxi and, therefore, also trust the taxi drivers. Characters will likely enjoy riding in “reliable” taxis, as they feel secure and not worried about being late.
5. Unassuming
Definition
Something that has an unpretentious or modest appearance.
Examples
“The celebrity crossed her fingers and prayed that her car would be unassuming. She didn’t want to be recognized in a flashy taxi.”
“The cab was so unassuming that he initially questioned whether it was a real taxi.”
How it Adds Description
You can showcase that your taxi has a low-key appearance via “unassuming.” This adjective implies that the vehicle either doesn’t look like a taxi or lacks any garish signs or over-the-top decorations. Characters who don’t want to be recognized or want to avoid attention will likely feel safer in an “unassuming” taxi. However, some might feel anxious in an “unassuming” taxi, as they could doubt its credibility.
6. Sluggish
Definition
Something that reacts or moves slower than usual.
Examples
“The cab driver tried to speed with all his might, but the sluggish vehicle wouldn’t go over 30 miles per hour.
“She looked out the window and watched the scenery crawl by. It made her wish she wasn’t in such a sluggish taxi.”
How it Adds Description
“Sluggish” shows that the taxi cannot drive at its normal speed or reach fast speeds, which may be extra frustrating for its passengers and driver. This might cause passengers to become angry, especially if they need to be somewhere very quickly.
7. Filthy
Definition
Something that’s extremely dirty.
Examples
“He grimaced as he opened the cab’s door. It was simply filthy.”
“I’m not getting in that filthy car. I’ve just had my hair done, and I’m in a white dress!”
How it Adds Description
The adjective “filthy” gives your readers a clear image of the taxi’s dirty appearance. The taxi could be “filthy” due to the driver’s neglect or because of environmental issues (e.g., rain or debris from a storm.) Characters might be apprehensive about getting in a “filthy” taxi, as it could be dirty inside, too.
8. Crowded
Definition
Something or somewhere filled with people.
Examples
“The crowded taxi nearly toppled over as it turned the corner. The weight of its passengers was way past the safety limit.”
“I’ve never been in such a crowded cab. Open the windows now. We need some air in here!”
How it Adds Description
The adjective “crowded” signifies that the taxi is at capacity or nearly full. This might make the journey uncomfortable for the passengers, as they’re likely all crammed in together. It can also cause the taxi to move slower than intended, as the passengers are weighing it down. All in all, it’s probable that everyone inside the cab is frustrated and wants to get out as soon as possible.
9. Ordinary
Definition
Something that’s not special or appears very normal.
Examples
“He let out a sigh of relief as the ordinary taxi turned the corner.”
“As she walked down the street, she easily spotted the limousine amongst the sea of ordinary taxis.”
How it Adds Description
“Ordinary” shows that the taxi is completely normal with no unique or identifying features. Characters might look for an “ordinary” taxi to get a trustworthy service, but some might find “ordinary” taxis boring if they prefer over-the-top aesthetics.
10. Remarkable
Definition
Something that’s special or unique and impresses people.
Examples
“The latest taxi model was simply remarkable. It could drive fast and park perfectly without a driver.”
“He was so impressed by the remarkable car’s design that he tipped the driver extra.”
How it Adds Description
If you want to showcase that your taxi is unique and impressive, “remarkable” is an apt adjective. This word highlights that the taxi is better than the others and implies that it catches the character’s attention with its positive attributes.