Sitting on my desk, next to my computer, is a list of words that I try to use as little as possible. The verbs are like a weak muscle that needs exercise and the adverbs are overused. Both can usually be replaced with stronger words that have more vitality and zip. I'd like to share this list with you.
Wimpy Verbs:
was...were...could...would...been...have...able to ...get...got...do...put...take...took...saw...walk...move...look...made...turn...went...going to ...said...had...has...seemed
Crutch Words:
some...well...thing...just...like...actually...certainly...really...lots...for a moment...that...then
...slightly...only...still...almost...personally...yet...often...since...because...a bit...perhaps
...maybe...more so...about...around
Remember, this isn't a hard and fast rule. Sometimes there doesn't seem to be the right word available. So go ahead and use what you feel is the right word. It's your manuscript so make it all you!
As an additional bonus, here are some other words that are considered weak and not as powerful.
Weak Words:
very...quite...beautiful...wonderful...great...hopefully...quickly...slowly...sincerely
...possibly...exactly...finally...mysteriously...sexy
We had a great guest post on IWSG about crutch words. You hit nearly all the same words. I need to hear this every day.
ReplyDeleteSusan Says
Susan: I must have missed that post. I'll have to check it out and see what I missed!
DeleteFascinating! (glad that wasn't on the list, Mr Spock would have been so disappointed). :-D
ReplyDeleteRetta: This list used to make me paranoid, but now I know it helps me look for more interesting and unique words.
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