Wooly words to drop from your writing

SHAKING THE TREE #56

Are you writing effectively, purposefully, and powerfully?

I wasn’t.

At least, I didn’t used to. Often, my writing has sounded like the babbling of a three year old.

It’s taken me years to become comfortable as a writer.

Effective, purposeful, powerful writing is as much about what you include in your text as it is about what you choose to omit.

While words are essential for communication, vague, wooly words that pad out what you’re saying dilute the clarity of your message.

Sure, there are certain words and phrases that empower your writing, but there are others that weaken it, including:

Very. Often used as an intensifier, ‘very’ adds no meaning. Instead of saying "very hot," say "scorching" or "sweltering" to provide a clearer and more vivid description.

Really. This is another woolly word that adds nothing. Replace phrases like "really good" with more precise terms like "excellent" or "exceptional."

Quite. Makes sentences less concise. Instead of "quite certain," simply say "certain."

Rather. Serves a similar purpose to "quiet." Avoid saying "rather small" and opt for "small" to streamline your writing.

Redundant phrases

In my opinion. When you're writing, it's understood that you're expressing your opinion. Remove this phrase for more direct and confident statements.

Added bonus. The word "bonus" implies something additional, so "added" is redundant. Use "bonus" alone.

Future plans. Plans are inherently future-orientated. Simply refer to them as "plans."

Filler words

Basically. While "basically" is used to simplify complex ideas, it can often be eliminated without loss of clarity. If your message is still clear without it, cut it.

Literally. Many people misuse "literally" for emphasis, but its overuse dilutes its meaning. Reserve it for situations where the meaning must be taken as exact and not figurative.

Vague or noncommittal language

Seems. Using "seems" can make your writing appear unsure. Replace with a more assertive verb or phrase whenever possible.

Perhaps/maybe. These words can weaken your statements. If you're uncertain or there's room for doubt, address it directly or leave them out.

Kind of/sort of. When describing something, aim for precision. If it's "kind of" a specific thing, make it clear what you mean.

Repetitive phrases

In order to. This phrase can often be simplified to "to." For example, "In order to succeed" can be written as "To succeed."

At this point in time. Use "now" for a more concise expression.

With respect to the fact. My brother over uses this, but then, he’s a wanker.

Thinking about this now I need to go back through dozens of articles and essays to rid them of the nonsense words I’ve shared above.

Sigh. Physician, heal thyself.

Polishing your writing involves adding the right words and eliminating those that don't contribute to clarity and precision.

The words mentioned above are common culprits that clutter writing, dilute message, and weaken arguments.

By recognizing and erasing these words from our writing, we can each create prose that is more powerful, clear, and impactful.

Writing efficiency enhances communication and captures the reader's attention, making your messages and mine all the more compelling.

As always, thanks for reading.

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P.S. Next time on Shaking the Tree … Slap passive voice in the mouth!