overused words in creative writing

Overused Words And Alternatives To Use Instead

Being a creative writer can be a lot of fun. Whether you’re writing novels, short stories, fan fiction, or even poetry, you can create worlds. Unfortunately, being a creative writer can also be really challenging. It’s not just difficult to imagine new things all the time—coming up with new and interesting ways to say things is also part of the challenge.

There are some words in creative writing that are terribly overused and common. Luckily, a good dictionary and thesaurus can work wonders on strengthening your writing.

So, we’ve rounded up some of the words writers most often use over and over. We’re not saying you should never use these words, but there are more interesting alternatives you might want to consider next time you sit down to write.

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Writing strong dialogue can be difficult. Not only is it hard to write as people talk, it’s hard to incorporate dialogue naturally into a narrative.

Writers typically default to the straightforward verb said to indicate dialogue. This is not always a problem; readers tend to skim over the word without noticing its overuse. However, said isn’t always the only (or best) word you can use. For example:

He said, “She is really smart.”

She said, “No, she is not.”

He said, “Yes, she is.”

Zzzz … snoozefest.

There are lots of good alternatives for said to make dialogue a lot more dynamic and engaging. For example, you could substitute said with a verb like:

• articulated

Check out that same dialogue (from above) with our new words:

He asserted, “She is really smart.”

She retorted, “No, she is not.”

He concluded, “Yes, she is.”

OK, still not the most exciting dialogue ever, but you get the point.

Another verb that can be quickly overused in creative writing is moved .

It’s the most bread-and-butter word to express that a character is doing some kind of action. But, like said , it can get really boring. Not only that, it’s not as descriptive as some alternative verbs, such as:

The word moved can serve an important purpose, but if you find yourself using it too many times, try one of these instead.

Amazing is an amazing word. And it’s  so amazing how many amazing uses it has.

Is your head spinning yet? Do you really understand what we’re trying to say?

Amazing has the distinction of being not only an overused word in creative writing, but also in daily life.

While amazing initially referred to something that causes astonishment or wonderment, now it is used to refer to anything a notch up from “just OK.”

If you find yourself reaching for this adjective, try to drill down and really think about what you’re trying to express. Some alternatives are:

• unbelievable

Very is a modifier that we use all the time in daily life, no problem-o. On the page, though, very is kind of flat. It’s an adverb that’s used for emphasis, but if it’s overused it loses some of its punch.

Instead of using very a hundred million times in your creative writing (and definitely don’t use it more than once in a row, like “this is very, very, very boring”), there are tons of other alternatives you can use for emphasis. Some of our favorites adverbs are:

That said, sometimes it’s enough to let the narrative speak for itself. If you’re tempted to use a modifier for emphasis, go back over the sentence and ask yourself if it’s truly necessary. Sometimes a light touch, like  very , can actually be best.

Love is a wonderful thing. We love love. Who doesn’t?

But love is a word whose meaning is notoriously hard to pin down. When you’re writing about feelings of great affection, romantic or otherwise, love might seem like an obvious word to use. But we recommend using the word love sparingly, like nutmeg. Or salt. Love can be either a noun or a verb. If you’re using love as a noun, such as “I felt a strong feeling of love,” consider some of the following alternatives:

• infatuation
• appreciation

If you’re using love as a verb, as in “I love you,” we recommend some of these alternatives:

• be attached to

There’s nothing wrong with the classic love , but consider some of these options next time you put pen to paper.

Look is another basic verb that is often overused, similar to said and moved . In boring writing, characters are always just looking, whether at objects or each other.

But there are so many more exciting ways to describe someone experiencing something via sight.

For example, there are verbs like:

fAh, thing. We’ve saved the worst for last. No offense to The Thing , thing is like a lead balloon in the middle of a story.

We have an entire thesaurus (and dictionary of course) full of thousands of vibrant, specific, interesting words to replace the imprecise, overworked noun thing .

Next time you find yourself describing something as a thing , take another pass at it. Dig in deep and use a word that really conveys what you’re talking about. Consider if the thing you’re referring to is an emotion, a particular object, or an idea and, then, name it.

The thesaurus is your friend. Don’t hesitate to pull it up and take a look around to find the bon mot , the just-right word or expression, to take the place of thing .

Ways To Say

Synonym of the day

50 Dead Words: Reviving Your Writing from Overused Phrases

In writing, vibrancy and creativity are key.

Yet, often we find ourselves trapped in the monotony of overused words, draining the life out of our prose. This article, from my own journey as a writer, aims to shine a light on these ‘dead words’ and offer fresh alternatives to reinvigorate your writing.

What are Dead Words?

Table of Contents

Dead words are phrases or words that have become so overused in writing and everyday language that they have lost their impact.

They are the clichés, the tired adjectives, and the vague verbs that make our writing seem dull and unoriginal.

As a writer, I’ve learned the hard way that relying on these words can make my work feel lifeless.

That’s why we need to go over the 50 biggest dead words you’ll want to avoid.

50 Biggest Dead Words Explained

So, let’s explore 50 of these dead words, understand why they’re dead, and discover vibrant alternatives to use instead.

Why ‘Very’ is Dead: ‘Very’ is a prime example of a dead word. It’s often used to intensify adjectives or verbs but ends up diluting the intended effect. This adverb has become so commonplace that it’s almost invisible in prose, adding nothing but fluff.

In my experience, ‘very’ can often be eliminated without losing meaning, or better yet, replaced with a stronger, more descriptive word.

• Exceptionally

Why ‘Things’ is Dead: ‘Things’ is a vague word that lacks descriptiveness. It’s a placeholder that we often use when we can’t think of a more specific term.

In my writing, I’ve noticed that replacing ‘things’ with more precise words adds clarity and interest to my sentences.

Why ‘Good’ is Dead: ‘Good’ is an adjective that is so overused it has become meaningless. It’s a generic way of expressing approval or positivity but fails to convey the specifics of what makes something worthy of praise.

In my revisions, swapping ‘good’ for more descriptive adjectives always enriches my writing.

• Outstanding

Why ‘Bad’ is Dead: Similar to ‘good’, ‘bad’ is an overly simplistic adjective that does little to convey the depth of negativity or disapproval.

In my writing, I’ve found that being more specific about what makes something ‘bad’ adds depth and clarity.

Why ‘Said’ is Dead: While ‘said’ is a useful dialogue tag, it can become repetitive and lifeless when overused. In my narrative writing, varying dialogue tags or using action beats in place of ‘said’ can make conversations more dynamic and interesting.

Why ‘Walk’ is Dead: ‘Walk’ is a basic verb that describes movement but lacks flavor. In my descriptive passages, using more specific verbs to describe how a character moves can add layers to their personality and mood.

Why ‘Look’ is Dead: ‘Look’ is a common verb that often feels inadequate in conveying the depth of observation or the manner in which someone views something.

In my work, replacing ‘look’ with more descriptive verbs can paint a clearer picture of a scene or character.

Why ‘Happy’ is Dead: ‘Happy’ is a generic term for a positive emotion, but it fails to capture the range or intensity of happiness. In my storytelling, using more specific terms helps to convey the character’s emotions more vividly.

Why ‘Sad’ is Dead: Like ‘happy’, ‘sad’ is a basic term for a negative emotion that often falls short in expressing the depth of sadness.

In my writing, exploring more nuanced words can provide a deeper understanding of a character’s emotional state.

• Heartbroken
• Melancholic

Why ‘Nice’ is Dead: ‘Nice’ is an adjective that has become so overused it’s almost meaningless. It’s a bland way of describing something pleasant or agreeable.

In my experience, opting for more specific adjectives not only enriches the description but also sharpens the image in the reader’s mind.

Why ‘Great’ is Dead: ‘Great’ is a word that sounds impressive but often lacks substance. It’s so broadly used that it fails to convey what is actually great about something.

In my writing, I’ve found that using more descriptive terms not only adds clarity but also engages the reader more effectively.

• Magnificent
• Exceptional

Why ‘Funny’ is Dead: The word ‘funny’ is a generic descriptor for humor but doesn’t capture the essence or type of humor involved.

In my comedic writing, I’ve learned that specifying the nature of the humor makes the text more engaging and vivid.

Why ‘Really’ is Dead: ‘Really’ is an intensifier that’s often used unnecessarily. It can make statements feel exaggerated or insincere.

In my experience, removing ‘really’ or replacing it with a more impactful word often strengthens the sentence.

Why ‘Got’ is Dead: ‘Got’ is a catch-all verb that can often be replaced with more precise verbs. It’s vague and can make writing feel lazy or unclear.

In my editing process, I always try to replace ‘got’ with a verb that more accurately describes the action.

Why ‘Like’ is Dead: While useful, ‘like’ is often overused in comparisons or as a filler word. It can make prose sound casual or imprecise.

In my more formal or descriptive writing, I aim to use more precise terms or vary my sentence structure to avoid overreliance on ‘like’.

• Comparable to

16. Amazing

Why ‘Amazing’ is Dead: ‘Amazing’ is a word that’s meant to convey awe, but its overuse has rendered it lackluster. In my work, I try to capture the specific aspect that makes something amazing, using a more descriptive adjective.

• Astonishing
• Breathtaking

Why ‘Always’ is Dead: ‘Always’ can be an exaggeration and often doesn’t accurately reflect reality. In writing, using more nuanced phrases can provide a more accurate and believable description of frequency.

• Consistently

Why ‘Never’ is Dead: Similar to ‘always’, ‘never’ is an absolute term that can lack nuance.

I’ve found that exploring the circumstances in which something might happen, instead of using ‘never’, adds depth and realism.

• Hardly ever
• Infrequently

Why ‘Big’ is Dead: ‘Big’ is a basic adjective that fails to capture the scale or significance of size. In descriptive passages, using more specific size-related adjectives helps paint a clearer and more vivid picture.

Why ‘Small’ is Dead: Like ‘big’, ‘small’ is a simplistic term for size. It lacks descriptiveness and can make writing feel generic. In my work, I’ve found that specifying the type of smallness can greatly enhance the imagery.

Why ‘Fast’ is Dead: The word ‘fast’ is a simple descriptor of speed but often lacks excitement and specificity. In my action scenes, I’ve discovered that using more evocative words to describe speed adds thrill and clarity to the narrative.

Why ‘Slow’ is Dead: ‘Slow’ is the antonym of fast but suffers from the same issue of being too generic.

In descriptive writing, specifying the nature of slowness adds depth and imagery.

Why ‘Hard’ is Dead: ‘Hard’ is a common adjective used to describe difficulty or texture, but it’s often too vague. In my experience, more specific words can greatly enhance the understanding of the challenge or texture being described.

• Challenging

Why ‘Easy’ is Dead: Just like ‘hard’, ‘easy’ is a word that’s often used to describe something not challenging, but it fails to convey the ease’s nature or extent.

Replacing ‘easy’ with more descriptive words has often made the text more engaging.

• Straightforward
• Uncomplicated

25. Interesting

Why ‘Interesting’ is Dead: ‘Interesting’ is a word we often use to describe something that captures our attention, but it doesn’t convey what makes it interesting.

In my articles and stories, I try to be more specific about why something is captivating.

• Fascinating
• Captivating

26. Important

Why ‘Important’ is Dead: ‘Important’ is a word that signifies significance but often falls flat in conveying why something is important. In writing, explaining the significance or replacing ‘important’ with a more impactful word has proven more effective.

• Significant

27. Different

Why ‘Different’ is Dead: ‘Different’ is a vague term that fails to specify how something is distinct from others. Using words that describe the nature of the difference makes the text more informative and clear.

Why ‘A lot’ is Dead: ‘A lot’ is a phrase used to indicate quantity but is imprecise and overused. In my professional writing, quantifying or specifying the extent of something adds precision and clarity.

29. Kind of

Why ‘Kind of’ is Dead: ‘Kind of’ is a phrase that often weakens the statement it precedes. It’s a filler that can make writing sound uncertain or vague. In my experience, removing it or using more definitive language strengthens the prose.

• To some extent

30. Literally

Why ‘Literally’ is Dead: ‘Literally’ is frequently misused in modern language, often to emphasize something that’s metaphorical, not literal.

It’s a good idea to ensure its correct use or find a more suitable word to avoid confusion.

31. Awesome

Why ‘Awesome’ is Dead: ‘Awesome’ once meant something inspiring awe, but now it’s so overused that it often means little more than ‘nice’ or ‘cool’. In my creative work, I strive for words that accurately capture the grandeur or impressiveness intended by ‘awesome’.

• Spectacular

32. Basically

Why ‘Basically’ is Dead: ‘Basically’ is a word often used to simplify complex ideas, but it can make explanations sound oversimplified or vague.

I find that diving directly into the explanation without this qualifier is more effective.

• Fundamentally
• Essentially

33. Clearly

Why ‘Clearly’ is Dead: ‘Clearly’ is used to emphasize the obviousness of a statement, but it can come off as condescending or dismissive.

I prefer to present facts or arguments without this qualifier to maintain an objective tone.

• Undoubtedly

Why ‘Maybe’ is Dead: ‘Maybe’ expresses uncertainty but can make writing sound indecisive.

In my professional correspondence, I’ve found that being more definitive, even when expressing possibilities, is more effective.

• Potentially
• Conceivably

Why ‘Just’ is Dead: ‘Just’ is often used to minimize things but can make statements sound trivial or dismissive. Try to avoid ‘just’ to give every element its due importance.

Why ‘Really’ is Dead: Though ‘really’ is a common intensifier, it’s often unnecessary. In my editing process, I’ve noticed that removing ‘really’ or replacing it with a stronger adjective or adverb often makes the sentence more powerful.

Why ‘Stuff’ is Dead: ‘Stuff’ is a vague, catch-all term that lacks specificity. In descriptive writing, using more precise nouns gives the reader a clearer picture of what I’m referring to.

• Possessions

Why ‘Then’ is Dead: ‘Then’ is frequently used in narrative to denote time sequence, but can become repetitive.

In storytelling, varying temporal indicators makes the narrative flow more naturally.

• Subsequently

Why ‘Unique’ is Dead: ‘Unique’ is meant to convey one-of-a-kind, but its overuse has diluted its impact. I’ve learned to show how something is unique rather than simply stating it.

• Distinctive
• Unparalleled

40. Utilize

Why ‘Utilize’ is Dead: ‘Utilize’ is often used in place of ‘use’ to sound more sophisticated, but it can come off as pretentious.

Simplicity often trumps complexity for clarity’s sake.

41. Actually

Why ‘Actually’ is Dead: ‘Actually’ is often used to correct or contradict previous statements but can come across as condescending or redundant. In my writing, I’ve found that getting straight to the fact without this qualifier is more effective and respectful.

• Realistically

42. Basically

Why ‘Basically’ is Dead: Though ‘basically’ is used to simplify explanations, it often signals an oversimplification or a hesitation to delve into details.

I prefer to omit ‘basically’ for clearer, more direct explanations.

• At its core

43. Generally

Why ‘Generally’ is Dead: ‘Generally’ is used to indicate a common or usual state, but it can make statements sound vague and non-committal.

Being specific about the conditions or contexts improves clarity and strength of argument.

44. Obviously

Why ‘Obviously’ is Dead: ‘Obviously’ can come off as dismissive or condescending, as it implies that the point should be clear to everyone,

Avoid ‘obviously’ to maintain a tone of respect and inclusivity.

45. Seriously

Why ‘Seriously’ is Dead: Used to emphasize sincerity or surprise, ‘seriously’ can often sound overly dramatic or insincere.

I find it more effective to let the context and content convey seriousness without this qualifier.

46. Totally

Why ‘Totally’ is Dead: ‘Totally’ is an intensifier that’s often more colloquial than informative. You might want to use more precise adverbs that don’t dilute the statement’s credibility.

47. Ultimately

Why ‘Ultimately’ is Dead: While ‘ultimately’ is used to signify a final point or conclusion, it can be overused and become meaningless.

I recommend that you use more impactful words to denote finality or conclusion.

• In conclusion

Why ‘Very’ is Dead: ‘Very’ is a common intensifier but often adds little to the meaning of a sentence.

I’ve found in my editing work that stronger adjectives or adverbs can replace ‘very’ + [adjective/adverb] combinations for a more concise and powerful statement.

• Particularly

49. Whatever

Why ‘Whatever’ is Dead: ‘Whatever’ can indicate indifference or a lack of specificity, which can make writing seem dismissive or vague.

In my narrative writing, I choose more descriptive words to convey the intended meaning more precisely.

• No matter what

Why ‘Huge’ is Dead: ‘Huge’ is often used to describe something large but lacks descriptive quality.

Opt for words that give a better sense of scale and impact.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dead Words

This FAQ section addresses some of the most common questions about dead words.

What Is a Dead Word Story?

Dead Word Story refers to a narrative or piece of writing that intentionally avoids using dead words.

The purpose is to encourage creativity and expand vocabulary.

Writers challenge themselves to replace overused, vague, or unimpactful words with more descriptive and vibrant alternatives. This practice not only improves the quality of the story but also sharpens the writer’s awareness of word choices, leading to more engaging and expressive writing.

It’s a great exercise for writers of all levels to refine their craft.

What Is a Dead Word Worksheet?

A Dead Language or Word Worksheet is a tool often used in educational settings to help students identify and replace overused words in their writing.

These worksheets typically list common dead words and provide spaces for students to write down more creative alternatives.

This exercise helps in building a richer vocabulary and encourages students to think more critically about their word choices.

Teachers use these worksheets to make students more mindful of their language and to improve the overall quality of their writing.

Is It Ever OK to Use a Dead Word?

Yes, it is sometimes okay to use dead language.

While it’s beneficial to avoid them in order to create more vivid and precise writing, there are instances where a dead word might be the most suitable choice.

For example, in informal communication or when a simple expression is needed for clarity, using a dead word can be effective.

The key is to be mindful of the context and purpose of your writing.

Understanding when and why to use certain words is a crucial part of developing as a writer.

How Can Identifying Dead Words Improve Writing?

Identifying dead words in your writing is a crucial step towards improving clarity, precision, and engagement.

By recognizing and replacing these overused or vague words, you force yourself to think more critically about your word choices, leading to more expressive and impactful writing.

This practice helps in developing a richer vocabulary and fosters creativity.

It also enhances the reader’s experience, as they are presented with writing that is vivid and evocative, rather than dull and generic.

Are Dead Words the Same in All Types of Writing?

No, dead words can vary depending on the type of writing.

What is considered a dead word in a creative narrative might not be so in a technical report. For instance, words like ‘very’ or ‘great’ might be dead in a novel but could be suitable in business or academic writing where simplicity and clarity are prioritized.

The context, audience, and purpose of the writing play a significant role in determining whether a word is ‘dead’.

Therefore, it’s important to consider these factors when deciding which words to avoid.

Here is a funny but evocative video about dead words:

Final Thoughts: Dead Words

Understanding and addressing dead words is an ongoing process in the journey of writing. It’s about balancing creativity with clarity, and precision with simplicity.

Read More About Words

• 75 Other Words For Moon (Best Synonyms and Antonyms)
• 30 Words To Use In Gothic Fiction (Gothic Word Guide)
• 75 Sequence Words: Overview, List & Examples
• How Many Pages Is 650 Words? (Solved W/ 10 Examples)

• Aug 31, 2020

20 Overused Words and Phrases to Remove from Your Vocabulary

It happened to all of us before. You’re writing a follow-up email , creating a presentation or preparing for a job interview. You want it to sound right, current, eloquent. You add a pinch of slang and spice it up with that idiom you love so much.Then you throw in a buzzword and leave everything to simmer. The result? A mash-up of overused words, terms and phrases. Yes, you followed the instructions. But so did everyone else.

You need to search for an alternative. Try harder—and make it simple at the same time. Confused? The following guide lists some of today’s most overused words, terms and phrases, and suggests a few alternatives (and deletions) instead.

Words that lost their impact

01. important.

In this day and age, everything is important . Watching the news, eating your greens, taking some time off, and the email you just sent to the entire company. But when describing your weekly team meeting, an item in your hand-luggage or this blog post, try an alternative.

What to use instead: Essential, Educational, Meaningful, Serious, Influential, Decisive.

Whether it’s used in its simple present form, to indicate something that you are fond of (“I like this Asian restaurant”), or as a preposition (“they were like siblings, always hanging out together”), like is overused, over-gestured and over-counted on your social media feed. What’s the alternative? If you loved a piece of art, try describing it. If you notice the similarity between two items, state what they have in common. Not sure?

What to use instead: Alike, Related, Close, Equal, Identical, Much the same.

Misused words

Even if you go by the widest definition of random : “a haphazard course; [...] without definite aim, direction, rule, or method” ( Merriam-Webster Dictionary ), you’re likely to either misuse or overuse it. If you haven’t paid for a premium subscription on a music streaming app, the songs in your favorite album will play randomly. But when you go on a road trip and stop by the first cafe you saw, it’s not a random cafe, it’s the one you found.

What to use instead: Accidental, Arbitrary, Incidental, Irregular, Unplanned, Odd.

A better alternative? Delete random altogether.

04. Literally

Literally just sounds great, doesn’t it? You’re literally going to march up to your manager, you literally drank the entire bar, you’re literally dying there. Here’s the deal: You’ve been using literally the wrong way all along. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary , literally means “in a way that uses the ordinary or primary meaning of a term or expression”. So unless you just finished all the alcohol in the bar the other night, or were in a near-death situation, try avoiding this word altogether.

The over-excited superlatives

As an adjective, great means something that is above normal or average. For example, the Great Wall of China, or Catherine the Great, the fearless 18th century empress of Russia. As an overused word, it describes bags, vacations, people, meetings, and forgotten rock bands from the 1990’s. Want to describe the fun evening you spent with your mates? A beautiful item you just purchased?

What to use instead: Beautiful, Wonderful, Talented, Entertaining, Clever—and the list goes on.

06. Perfect

It happens time and time again. You want to compliment your peers on a job well done, or a friend on a cleverly chosen venue. But overusing perfect makes things sound a little bit less sincere. Can everything be so peachy all the time ? Probably not.

What to use instead: Excellent, Ideal, Impeccable, Superb, Accomplished, Faultless, Immaculate

07. Amazing

When you watch a trapeze artist, a Beluga whale coming up for air or your baby walking for the very first time—that’s amazing. But if you’re looking for a general descriptor or superlative, why not go for more subtle-yet-reliable words?

What to use instead: Cool, Awesome, Wonderful, Pretty, Fun, Unusual.

There’s nothing special about using the same word over and over again. In fact, it might even sound like you have nothing better to say, or worse, think that your best friend’s newborn baby is ugly. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary , unique means “being the only one [....] ; distinctively characteristic”. So if you’re describing something that really stands out, use unique, or rare, unusual, different, exclusive. And if that isn’t the case, say what it really is: beautiful, colorful, tasteless, or, in the case of your friend’s baby, takes after their dad .

The industry lingo

09. innovative/innovation.

If you want to succeed in this world, your new product, program, project or creation has got to be innovative . But is it? Instead of overusing innovative , try to pitch your product or program in a more persuasive way. It might be new, clever, different. It might suggest a different approach. And if there is an innovation at the heart of what you just presented?

What to use instead: Ground-breaking, Original, Cutting-edge, New.

10. Ecosystem

In the Encyclopædia Britannica , an ecosystem is “the complex of living organisms, their physical environment and all their interrelationships in a particular unit of space”. Not too long ago, this term referred to reefs, beehives or the Savannah. Then it was hijacked by the tech industry and today it is used to describe business partnerships, co-working spaces or financial networks.

What to use instead: Industry, Community, Network, System, Co-dependence, Inter-relations.

We’re in the ASAP era, where everything should happen as soon as possible . We’re in such a hurry, that we only have time for the abbreviation: Ey-Sup. But what does it really mean, and is your possible also my possible? If you want something done today, say it. If it’s urgent, state it. And if you want to give the person on the other side of your outbox a bit of space, use alternative phrases.

What to use instead: At your convenience, When you’re ready, What would be a reasonable deadline?

Overused phrases

12. at the end of the day.

According to Grammarphobia , at the end of the day has been used for decades, and first citings can even be traced to as early as the 1880’s. It’s used to preface the speaker’s point or to highlight the “most important aspect of the situation” ( Collins Dictionary ). But no matter how long we’ve been using this phrase, we certainly have been using it too often. Yes, it might sound sophisticated, or literary (No, that book and wonderful adaptation are called The Remains of the Day ), but why not go for a simpler option?

What to use instead: All things considered, Eventually, All said and done.

13. Hit the ground running

There’s an exciting debate going on regarding the origin of hit the ground running. Is it paratrooper lingo, marine slang or cartoon-inspired? But no matter whether you see yourself landing on the beach somewhere, or as an animated character being thrown off a speeding car —you can say you’re ready without using this expression.

What to use instead: Be prepared, Make the necessary arrangements, Prepare in advance.

14. State-of-the-art

According to Wikipedia , the earliest use of State of the art was in the beginning of the 20th century in an engineering manual that described a very modern engine (with art referring to technics). These days, there’s nothing modern or innovative about using this phrase over and over again.

What to use instead: Modern, Fresh, Creative, Updated, Sophisticated, Current.

15. On the same page

If you sing in a choir , it’s a good idea to be on the same page with the rest of the singers. After all, you don’t want to miss your big mezzo moment. The same goes for reading the Haggadah, where one should always know how far they are from finally devouring Matzo Balls. But when it comes to agreeing with your peers or syncing before a meeting, try the following:

What to use instead: In agreement, Think alike, Agreed, Like-minded.

16. Get the ball rolling

Get the ball rolling is such a beautiful, graphic phrase. You’re about to roll the ball (preferably a croquet ball, where this expression originated ) all the way to a victorious game or a successful project. But in the writing game, you’re definitely losing points over originality. When it comes to your work environment, wouldn’t it be better to simply use the following phrases?

What to use instead: Start, Kick off, Get started, Roll-out.

17. Game changer

Yet another great idiom, originally from the world of sports , this phrase now describes every new product, business decision or political statement. But can the game change that often? Probably not.

What to use instead: Original, Sophisticated, Smart, Promising.

Words you can simply delete

18. basically.

When you don’t know where to begin, basically comes in handy. “Basically, this meeting is about moving forward to the next phase of our project”. But is it really basic, essential or elementary? Try removing it—and if the meaning has not changed, simply delete it.

19. Actually

According to the Cambridge Dictionary , actually means “in fact or really”. Just like basically and honestly , one should question the need for using this word. Does it add anything to the meaning, the tone or the accuracy of your sentence? If it doesn’t, remove it.

20. Honestly

If you want to sound credible, avoid using honestly . “I honestly think you should go for the red sneakers” sounds like you’re telling the truth, but your listener might wonder about all the other things you said that weren't prefaced by honestly. The same goes for to be honest and its amplified version, to be brutally honest . If you’re telling the truth, no need to highlight it. Say it like you mean it, and you’ll be the trusted speaker you want to be.

Writing in a fluent, current and original way isn’t an easy task. But if you’ll avoid some of the trends, buzzwords or simply redundant words on this list—your writing will probably be one step ahead of the game. (Woops!)

Looking to create a blog ? Wix has got your covered with thousands of design features, built-in SEO and marketing tools, that will allow you to scale your content, your brand and your business.

Rutie Zuta, Content Team Leader at Wix ADI

Loves words, sentences, paragraphs and everything in between . As a journalist, would get excited about current affairs and chasing politicians. As a content specialist, gets equally excited about content, product, platforms and putting it all together.

• Grammar & Style

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Simplify Your Writing – Avoid These 44 Overused Words & Phrases

Writers Write is a writing resource. In this post, we suggest you avoid these 44 overused words and phrases in your writing.

Writing simply and clearly is essential in business, or any, writing. We write sentences to convey messages. If we want to communicate, we need to keep them short . We should avoid verbiage by using mostly verbs and nouns and by not using empty phrases and meaningless words like those in the Infographic.

Avoid using words to fill up space. Modifiers, qualifiers, and intensifiers ( very , almost, nearly, quite) add nothing to our writing. Unnecessary adjectives and adverbs clutter up the page and put our readers to sleep.

We should also avoid using big words and empty phrases because we think they makes us sound clever.  Redundancy  is also a problem.

‘A document does not have more value because it is longer. Repeating information does not make it more important. Using jargon does not make the message more significant.’ (Source:  3 Ways To Write In Plain Language )

[Top Tip: If you need practical help with your grammar, buy The Complete Grammar Workbook .]

Avoid These 44 Overused Words & Phrases

Here are 44 overused words and phrases to avoid when you write:

Source for Infographic:  Grammar Check

If you enjoyed this post, read:

• Affect vs Effect & 34 Other Common Confusions
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• Grammar , Infographic

2 thoughts on “Simplify Your Writing – Avoid These 44 Overused Words & Phrases”

Thanks for these. U just get better and better each day as you grow. My vocabulary is definitely going to be improved going forward

Perhaps it’s necessary to tag these posts as ‘YMMV depending on where you live’. While I agree with most of these, I’ll just point out that ‘orientate’ is standard British usage (and hey! we invented the language in the first place) as a word has a history dating back to the mid-19th century, and is accepted by all the major dictionaries (including Merriam-Webster) as valid.

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Overused Words: Why and How to Avoid Them in Your Writing

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the English language has 171,476 words. Given this huge number, it’s such a waste that many authors limit their writing vocabulary by reusing the same words over, and over, and over again. Overusing certain words, like interesting or awesome, in a piece of writing not only puts the reader to sleep, but leaves the author’s meaning vague and confusing.

This guide will address which words get commonly recycled, why this habit harms your writing, and how you can increase variety in your own writing.

Compare the two sentences below, and notice the difference in vocabulary:

Example one: Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is an interesting story about a doctor who makes a big, scary monster that feels lonely. The monster goes on a long, interesting journey because of his loneliness. Example two: Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein tells the chilling story of Dr. Victor Frankenstein and his creation of a companionless Monster, who becomes vengeful throughout the story due to society rejecting him.

While these two examples might share a similar basic idea, the second one avoids repeating words and favors specific words over general ones. The new words chilling, companionless, vengeful, and rejection allow the second example to paint a much stronger picture in the reader’s mind–and this is only one sentence. Imagine the difference that varied vocabulary can make throughout an entire paper, article, or story.

Commonly Overused Words

The following words, mostly adjectives, tend to get overused in writing:

• interesting 

How Overusing Words Damages Writing

Recycling the same words harms your writing, no matter the audience or context: texting a friend about what happened at lunch, completing a school essay about Hamlet or the French Revolution, crafting a company-wide update about a new partnership, blogging about your latest muffin recipe, captioning an Instagram post about your Halloween plans… in each of these cases, overused words make the written text drier and more boring. Below, read more about how overused words do such damage.

Harm #1: Overused words make writing repetitive.

An audience doesn’t want to read the same words over and over again, because overused words suck the fun out of reading–they take sentences that should develop ideas and pop with energy, and reduce these sentences to basic information-relaying devices that don’t develop or grow throughout a text.

A food blog, for example, which intends to take readers on a journey through New York’s spicy world of Indian cuisine, should use unique words to describe every dish, flavor, and restaurant, to demonstrate their true originality. However, as shown below, describing each dish with the same words– flavorful, spicy, bright-colored, delicious, tasty– robs the text’s subjects of their distinctive qualities.

Food blog (with overused words): New York’s Indian cuisine scene is full of delicious food. Restaurants like Milon have Chicken Tandoori and vegetable fritters that are so tasty , visitors will absolutely enjoy them. Dhaba has Paneer Biryani that your taste buds will enjoy , and one of the best-tasting shrimp curries in the state.

Food blog (fresh language): New York’s food scene pulls from every country in the world, and nothing exemplifies this better than the city’s Indian Cuisine. Milon serves a crispy , buttery naan to accompany dishes that pop with flavor, like creamy Chicken Tandoori where the flavors mix together so well that not a single spice dominates the harmonious balance. Just down the road, Dhaba’s Paneer Biryani offers a cooler , more delicate flavor for those who prefer the spice toned down .

The second example’s word-swaps , more specific and vivid than those from the first example, make it so that every sentence brings novelty to the blog: a stronger sensory experience, a better awareness of what these restaurants are like, a more informative and entertaining experience for the reader.

Harm #2: Overused words make writing vague and unclear.

Good writing prioritizes clarity, because clarity allows writers to successfully express their unique and complex thoughts. For example, when Harper Lee describes how 8-year-old Jean-Louise (Scout) Finch feels, the word bad doesn’t really help the reader understand how Scout feels. However, if Lee describes Scout as feeling the tears welling up inside , or like all of her dreams crashed down around her , these specific descriptions help the reader imagine the feeling more concretely. 

Informational and analytical essays , like those written for school, also benefit from specific language, because all readers (including teachers and professors) want to have a novel, fresh reading experience. A student who can express their unique ideas with precision will hold the teacher’s attention, because readers want to gain new experiences, ideas, and thoughts from the texts they read. Check out the examples below to see how precise words help analytical writers share their nuanced thoughts about a text, leaving jaded analysis behind.

Literary analysis (overused words): Christopher McCandless, the main character in Into the Wild , goes on a wild adventure into Alaska because he wants to experience life . His suburban life seemed happy and normal to everyone around him, but he wanted more–he wanted adventure , to go out on his own and explore the world. Burning his credit card showed that he wanted to leave his previous life behind and experience something new.

Literary analysis (fresh language): Christopher McCandless, the main character in Into the Wild , decided to leave his seemingly pristine suburban life because he felt unsatisfied . Seeking a full life, with the insecurity and absolute freedom from which his home environment protected him, he journeyed down to Mexico and up to Alaska with just a backpack.

By avoiding the overuse of general words to describe a character, theme, or idea–in this case, the words adventure, life, and experience –writers push themselves to move away from abstract, all-inclusive words, toward more concrete ones, like unsatisfied, freedom, and insecurity .

Specific, varied, and concrete words increase the chances of a reader knowing just what the writer attempts to say, a huge plus in academic writing.

Strategies to Avoid Word Overuse

Whether you’re just beginning a piece of writing and want to keep things fresh from beginning to end, or if you’re in the process of revising your latest blog and noticed that it uses the word interesting too many times, fret not: the tricks below can help spice up your language, no matter where you sit in the writing process .

Strategy #1: Determine which words you commonly overuse, and find them in your writing [Ctrl+F].

If you notice that certain words, such as important or interesting , get commonly recycled in your writing, try using the find-text tool [Ctrl+F] once you’ve drafted the document or a paragraph, entering the word into the search bar, to scan your text for the overused culprit and identify how many times it pops up. It might surprise you how often certain culprits make repeat appearances. 

Once you’ve identified overused words in your writing, implement the below strategies to substitute new-and-improved words.

Strategy #2: Consult a thesaurus.

Thesauruses exist for just this purpose: to help writers find the perfect word to replace the preexisting one. In the example pairs below, the overused (tired) example features the word bad.

Searching the word bad in the Merriam-Webster thesaurus website or app, presents an array of precise words that, when used in place of bad, add color and detail to the rejuvenated sentences.

Tired literary analysis: In Crime and Punishment , Raskolnikov feels bad that he murdered a woman. Rejuvenated literary analysis: In Crime and Punishment , Raskolnikov feels rotten with anxiety about the fact that he murdered a woman.

Tired science report: Radiation has bad effects on an organism. Rejuvenated science report: Radiation has destructive effects on an organism.

Tired description in a story: The woman noticed the bouquet of flowers on the desk and thought it looked bad . Rejuvenated description: The woman noticed the bouquet of flowers on the desk and thought it looked awkward .

Note that the rejuvenated examples provide the reader more information, and in each of these cases the new, specific word paints a much clearer picture for the sentence as a whole.

Strategy #3: Select the most precise word possible.

Overused words are usually vague, offering the opportunity to replace them with a more-specific word that creates a stronger sentence. The precise replacement-word is not always a direct synonym for the original word. For example, a writer could replace the sentence I feel amazing with I feel energized or I feel confident. Even though energized and confident don’t mean the same thing as amazing, they paint a clearer picture and a more effective sentence due to their increased specificity.

This strategy helps refine our language and ideas, making them unique and original. The below examples demonstrate how swapping a word for its more-precise counterpart can boost a sentence.

Tired language: Romeo and Juliet tells the exciting story of two young lovers who fight their circumstances to remain together. Specified language: Romeo and Juliet tells the heart-wrenching story of two young lovers who fight their circumstances to remain together.

Tired language: Sunlight plays an important role in helping plants grow. Specified language: Sunlight plays a fundamental role in helping plants grow.

Tired language: The backyard’s willow trees and calm stream made a beautiful scene. Specified language: The backyard’s willow trees and calm stream made a harmonious scene.

When a writer chooses particular words for each sentence, refusing to lazily settle for overused and vague words, suddenly each new sentence in the text builds productivity upon the ones before it. 

Strategy #4: When in doubt, cut the intensifiers.

Intensifying words–like very, really, incredibly, so, totally , and absolutely –usually act as fluff. Put differently, intensifiers often take up space in our writing but fail to serve a purpose. Further, writers often use these words without thinking and don’t realize how much they pile up throughout a text.

Unnecessary words cause a text to drag on, and a sentence usually loses nothing without them–on the contrary, sentences usually become stronger without intensifying words because the core ideas, subjects, actions, and descriptions can take center stage without a wasteful word-crowd around them.

Rather than using an intensifier to add vividness to a jaded, general word, try using a more exciting or specific word in the first place. Often, this means that you’ll swap out both the intensifier and the verb it intensifies, replacing them with a single engaging word, as in the examples below:

Unnecessary intensifier: Atticus Finch takes a very big risk when he decides to defend Tom Robinson in court. Specific word swapped in: Atticus Finch takes an unprecedented risk when he decides to defend Tom Robinson.

Unnecessary intensifier: The Nile River played a really important role in ancient Egyptian society. Specific word swapped in: The Nile River played a foundational role in ancient Egyptian society.

Unnecessary intensifier: Wagging his tail, the puppy became so happy when they arrived at the park. Specific word swapped in: Wagging his tail, the puppy became ecstatic when they arrived at the park.

Using fewer words, but more carefully chosen ones, maximizes specificity and meaning, leading each word to provide more impact.

Quick Swaps for Overused Words

Each overused word has hundreds of possible specific-substitutes and related words–more word swaps than any thesaurus could provide; taking the word beautiful for example, both  hypnotizing and otherworldly could serve as related substitutes , but these have different-enough definitions from beautiful that neither would get listed in a thesaurus. Often, finding just the right word depends on your internal vocabulary, which is why frequent reading provides the background for good writing.

Still, when you feel stuck on a tired word and can’t figure out a substitute, it helps to have a bank of ideas. Check out the chart below for some go-to swaps:

Wrapping up

We all do it–we all overuse certain words, and most of the time we don’t even notice that we do it. It’s very well possible that despite my careful proofreading of this article, I’ve overused certain words within these very sections. So as always, we writers must adopt a learner’s mindset: We must strive to improve and freshen our stale language whenever we notice it. Reading and writing provide valuable practices to help us become better writers in the long run, so when we practice those as much as possible, the rest takes care of itself. Here’s to growing as writers, and freshening up our language along the way.

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RD.COM Knowledge Grammar & Spelling

12 Overused Words That Make You Sound Boring

By Meghan Jones

Updated: Nov. 28, 2023

And some snappy alternatives!

What’s the word?

Whether you’re an aspiring writer or just someone who uses written correspondences to communicate (which, yes, is most people!), you probably use some of the same words over and over again without even thinking about it. And that can bore your readers—not to mention, it’s just nice to use more words and keep your vocabulary sharp. New vocabulary additions don’t have to be fancy, overcomplicated words that sound pompous, either. Oftentimes they’re just slightly more descriptive synonyms for these basic words we use all the time.

“Very” is a handy word, for sure. It instantly ups the intensity of whatever word you’re describing. That movie wasn’t just sad; it was  very  sad. Your date wasn’t just late; he was very  late. There is definitely a time and a place for “very,” and sometimes it just really isn’t necessary to use a flashy synonym. But most of the time, there’s probably a way cooler, punchy adjective that you can substitute for “very [blank]” and not lose meaning—or even strengthen it. Instead of “very clean,” try “immaculate.” Instead of “very hard,” use “arduous.” There’s a very long—ahem,  extensive —list of “very” swaps like these at Preply that can help you ditch “very.”

This one is a creative writer’s Kryptonite. While you probably don’t use the word “said” much in daily conversation (you’re probably more likely to use the phrase “I was like…”), if you’re writing dialogue for whatever reason, it’s all too easy to fall into the “said” trap. Immediately spruce up your writing by swapping out “said” with the plethora of other words  that can describe spoken words. Did your character “mutter” that bit of dialogue or “holler” it? Was she “explaining” something or “asserting” a claim? Varied dialogue verbs can instantly make a story come to life.

So  many things can be “pretty”—which is probably why this word is so common. Using a more exciting variation can help you specify what, exactly, about the thing you’re describing is so appealing. “Exquisite” implies a more refined beauty as well as a little bit of fragility; this one might apply to a fancy vase or extravagant jeweled gown. What about a sunset? That can be “magnificent” or “stunning,” words that imply a more expansive, grand beauty. And as for a person, if you really want to flatter someone, “pretty”‘s probably not gonna do it. How about “ravishing” or “gorgeous”? They’ll make an impression if anything! So will these fun English words we no longer use—but should .

No, we’re not talking about the filler word “like,” as in, “This was, like, the greatest day ever!” We’re talking about the verb, “like,” which definitely suffers from overuse. Would the word “admire” apply to whatever you’re talking about? What about “cherish,” or even “revere”? If those convey feelings stronger than yours, maybe “appreciate” or “enjoy” will fit the bill.

Good/Great/Awesome

These three separate words would  seem  to indicate an increasing amount of goodness, but they’re used so interchangeably that “awesome” almost never evokes the “overwhelming feeling of reverence [or] admiration” that dictionaries say it should. Rather than falling back on these generic goodness indicators, every now and then try throwing out a “fantastic,” “wonderful,” or “excellent” when “good” just isn’t good enough. If you want your vocabulary to be better than good, try these simple ways to improve your vocabulary in just one day.

Yes, it’s a pretty basic biological function that we do without even thinking about it. But that doesn’t mean you can’t use different words to make it sound cooler! (The same goes for “look.”) How about “glimpse,” “glance [at],” “peer,” “observe,” or “notice”? Consider “I saw the car coming up the street” versus “I spied the car coming up the street.” Do you *see* the difference? Next time you need to add some excitement to your vocabulary, try out these fancy words that make you sound smart .

Here’s another catch-all word nightmare that can ensnare writers. It’s so temptingly easy to just throw the word “thing” into your writing (or speech!). But if you care about this “thing,” and/or about being precise and specific in your writing, try a little bit harder to use a more exact, descriptive word than “thing.” If you’re actually conveying ignorance about something, “thing-a-ma-bob” and “doohickey” are great alternatives for “thing.” (Plus, they’ll probably get a laugh!)

There are so many different, nuanced types of humor; why shouldn’t we use an equally varied collection of words to describe it, rather than just the catch-all that is “funny”? You’ve got “hilarious,” “riotous,” “amusing,” “witty,” and “sidesplitting” (to name a few), all of which add nuance to whatever it was that made you laugh.

“It was nice!” “Oh, that’s nice!” Instead of really conveying any actual niceness, saying something was “nice” often just implies that you can’t be bothered to say any more about it. Break the “nice” mold with some more descriptive adjectives! Was that walk through the park in beautiful weather “delightful”? Say so! Or, if that seems a little over-the-top, call it “pleasant.” How about that gift you just got? Was it “thoughtful” or “meaningful”? Telling the gifter so will surely make  them  feel better than if you just say “That’s such a nice gift!” Commenting on someone else’s good news? Tell them it’s “wonderful” or “incredible.”

Here we are again: “Smart” is a catch-all, and intelligence manifests in so many different ways. What’s so “smart” about that person, idea, or concept that you’re talking about? Is it “brilliant”? “Clever”? “Quick-witted”? “Inventive”? A “smart” person has probably been called “smart” countless times, but how many times have they been called “wise” or “ingenious”? And if you want to  sound  any of the above, make sure to avoid these words and phrases that can make you sound stupid .

Just how “important” is the matter? Is it “urgent”? “Crucial”? Or is it relevant enough to be “pressing,” but not quite “critical”? Or is importance minimal, meaning that just calling it “notable” does it justice? There’s a whole range of priorities potentially conveyed by the word “important,” which today we can encounter in any context from funny video–sharing to life-changing announcements.

Interesting

This one and “important” kind of go hand in hand, in that they’re long-ish words that begin with “I” that, because they’re longer than monosyllables, sound a bit more impressive. Plus, they can just so easily apply to so many things. Make no mistake—just like “important,” “interesting” is a rather ho-hum word that we kind of just throw into sentences by default. Is the thing-of-interest “fascinating,” or could you settle for “cool”? Is it “engaging” but maybe not quite “mesmerizing”? Again, the word can apply to so much, from a movie twist to a fun fact to a bit of juicy gossip—maybe opt for something a little more interesting  than “interesting.”

Originally Published: November 08, 2019

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10 Overused Words (And Brilliant Alternatives You Never Knew You Needed)

• 3-minute read
• 14th September 2015

Keep in mind when writing an essay that the person marking it will probably have to read dozens of similar assignments from your classmates.

One way to make sure your work stands out is to have it checked by a professional . Another is to vary your vocabulary. In this post, we offer alternatives for ten words commonly used in academic writing.

The word ‘also’ is great for connecting two related sentences but you might need a few alternatives in a longer essay.

At the start of a sentence, words like ‘furthermore’, ‘moreover’ and ‘in addition’ can serve the same purpose.

This word is both a verb and a noun. When used as a verb (e.g. ‘to answer my research question’) you could also use terms like ‘address’ and ‘resolve’.

When used as a noun (e.g. ‘the answer to this dilemma’), good alternatives include ‘solution’ and ‘explanation’.

3. Bad/Good

Synonyms for the basic term ‘bad’ include ‘poor’, ‘inferior’, ‘negative’ and ‘deficient’.

Alternatives to ‘good’ include ‘satisfying’, ‘valuable’, ‘excellent’, ‘positive’ and ‘high-quality’.

Possible replacements for the verb ‘change’ (i.e. the act of changing something) include ‘transform’, ‘modify’ and ‘adjust’.

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The nouns which accompany these words (i.e. the change made) are ‘transformation’, ‘modification’ and ‘adjustment’.

5. Describe

When referring to the work of others you might draw upon their written descriptions. Substitute words for ‘describe’ include ‘portray’, ‘characterise’ and ‘report’.

It’s common to say that you’re going to ‘explain’ something in your essay. Other options here include ‘clarify’, ‘elaborate’ and ‘account for’.

7. Important

If you want to identify some detail or idea as important, alternate possibilities you might use incorporate ‘significant’, ‘vital’, ‘critical’, ‘imperative’ and ‘essential’.

This one is particularly important when quoting other sources. Instead of repeatedly saying ‘so and so said that’ to introduce a quotation, try using words like ‘stated’, ‘explained’, ‘argued’ or ‘claimed’.

9. Therefore

The word ‘therefore’ is used to introduce a conclusion based upon a premise or argument (e.g., ‘Because X , therefore Y’ ). Alternative terms include ‘consequently’, ‘accordingly’ or ‘as a result’.

If describing an experiment you’ll need to identify the methods used. As well as ‘use’, terms which can be helpful here include ‘utilise’, ’employ’, ‘apply’ and ‘adopt’.

Of course, the best thing you can do if you’re struggling to find alternatives to common words is check a thesaurus . Just make sure you understand a word before using it, as many terms have more than one meaning!

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Commonly Overused Words and How to Avoid Them

If you want to be a skilled English writer, you must learn to avoid commonly overused words. This list will help.

Strong English writing requires unique verbiage. Unfortunately, some words are overused in English, and they make writing weaker. Good writers know to grab a Thesaurus and find synonyms for overused words that pop up in their writing.

If you are working on your English writing, there are some overused phrases and words that are best left alone. Here is a list that will help keep you on track.

We tested dozens of grammar checkers, and Grammarly is the best tool on the market today. It'll help you write and edit your work much faster. Grammarly provides a powerful AI writing assistant and plagiarism checker.

5. Important

6. great/amazing, 7. actually, 8. lots/lots of, 10. innovative, a final word on overused words, what are overused words or phrases, how to avoid overused words, top 10 overused words in the english language.

If you’re going to write, you’ll want to scour your writing to make sure you are not guilty of overuse. Here are some overused words that may show up a few too many times. Replace them with new words to strengthen your writing.

The word “other” is very versatile, but it is also very over-used. Because it applies to almost any situation, writers are tempted to use it often. However, there are alternatives that work just as well, for instance:

• Do you have any other suggestions? 
• Do you have any further suggestions?
• We were looking for other opinions on the topic.
• We would love to hear some different opinions on the topic.

Like “other” the word “more” is a catch-all word. It can refer to many different things, but it is also one of the most boring words in the English language. Instead, look for more interesting words, as in:

• Please give me more context about the problem.
• Please give me greater context about the problem.
• Do you have more room for the furniture?
• Do you have additional room for the furniture?

Good means very little in the English language. It is used so much, it becomes filler. Here are some examples of more descriptive words to use:

• They had a good afternoon at the beach.
• They had a relaxing afternoon at the beach.
• The town got a good amount of snow.
• The town got a sufficient amount of snow.

Like “good,” the word “best” has lost much of its meaning among English words because it is so over-used. Here are some examples that use a better word in place of this superlative.

• These are the best matching socks for the outfit.
• These are the perfectly matched socks for the outfit.
• They felt he was the best expert to interview.
• They felt he was the leading expert to interview.

The word important no longer carries a strong meaning because of how often people are overusing it. Instead, find a more colorful and descriptive word, like these examples:

• The school board had an important decision to make.
• The school board had a crucial decision to make.
• Getting licensed was an important step in starting his career.
• Getting licensed was an essential step in starting his career.

Both great and amazing have the same meaning, and these words get used too often. Replace them with something more specific to your meaning, as in these examples:

• The office had a great amount of debt to consider.
• The office had a staggering amount of debt to consider.
• She found an amazing deal on her new dress.
• She found a remarkable deal on her new dress.

Actually, like many adverbs, gets used far too often, and in places where it is not necessary. In most instances, you can leave off this word, saving it for a competitive game of scrabble, not your writing, and the sentence will make sense. Here are some examples:

• I actually liked the olives on the pizza.
• I liked the olives on the pizza
• I, surprisingly, liked the olives on the pizza.

If you want to irritate an editor, use this word repeatedly. It is so over-used that you will get a red pen mark quickly when you do. Instead, find a heftier word, as in these examples:

• The boy delivered lots of newspapers Saturday morning.
• The boy delivered a hundred newspapers Saturday morning.
• She received lots of compliments on her performance.
• She received many compliments on her performance.

The world like is usually a filler. It can be used to mean “enjoy” or “appreciate,” but those are better words to choose. Here are some examples:

• I like listening to classical music before going to bed.
• I enjoy listening to classical music before going to bed.
• They were like sisters, more than friends. 
• They seemed to be sisters, more than friends.

In the tech industry,  innovative  is over-used. Instead, use a word that indicates just why the idea is innovative, such as:

• The innovative design caught the eye of the tech giant.
• The state-of-the-art design caught the eye of the tech giant.
• The Apple Watch gained notoriety because it was an innovative concept.
• The Apple Watch gained notoriety because it was a ground-breaking concept.

Many overused words creep into American writing. As you consider your own writing, you will want to avoid some of these. You might also find our 20 common synonyms for experience helpful.

By replacing overused words with synonyms, your writing can have more meaning and depth. Keep this list handy as you write , and remove as many of these words as you can to make it stronger. You might also be interested in our list of feeling words .

FAQs on Overused Words

Overused words and phrases are words that people use too often in their writing or speech. They often lose their meaning because of this overuse. Writers can replace these with stronger words or synonyms to make their words more interesting. 

The best way to avoid overused words is to identify them and keep a thesaurus handy to find alternatives. If you know the words you tend to overuse in your writing, you can carefully edit to avoid them. 

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June 11, 2017 By Anne R. Allen 107 Comments

Filter Words and Phrases to Avoid in Writing Fiction

 Filter words act like a veil between the reader and the character

by Kathy Steinemann

This article provides a list of writing filters, with practical examples of how to replace them. You’ll also find exercises that can double as story prompts.

All words exist for a reason. Use them wisely to create engaging narrative.

Why the fuss?

Filter words form a barrier that distances readers from a story.

Bertie felt the warm sand between her toes as she walked.

Bertie’s experience is relayed secondhand. When word economy is critical, this approach works. However, wouldn’t you rather become so involved that you almost feel it yourself?

With a few tweaks, we can strengthen the sentence.

The sand trickled between Bertie’s toes, radiating warmth with every step she took.

Strong verbs, trickled and radiating , amplify the sensory impact.

Five senses? Six? Twelve?

Most people can name five senses: sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste. Add ESP to the list, and it grows to six.

Some pundits expand to include pain, balance, motion, sense of time, temperature, and sense of direction. You might even discover lists that include miscellaneous emotions such as hunger, happiness, fatigue, and rhythm.

For the purposes of this post, we’ll stick with the five senses we learned about in elementary school.

Popular advice recommends that writing include all five senses whenever possible.

Let’s evaluate a paragraph that complies with this recommendation.

Patricia heard steps on the front porch, and she smelled sulfur. She could taste bile rising into her throat. She couldn’t see anything in the dark, so she groped until she felt the familiar cold metal of her son’s baseball bat.

“What’s wrong with that?” you might ask. “The paragraph embraces all five senses.”

Please review the underlined words. They filter the events through Patricia’s perceptions. Let’s consider a different version.

Someone—or something—stomped across the front porch. The reek of sulfur overwhelmed Patricia’s nostrils, and bitter bile burned her throat. She groped in the darkness for a weapon. What was that? Ah, the comforting cold metal of her son’s baseball bat.

The second version employs strong verbs to transport readers into the action. Patricia hears stomping, she smells sulfur, she tastes bitter bile, she sees darkness, and she feels cold metal.

Or something , set off by em dashes, adds to the tension. The reek of sulfur leaves no doubt that the odor is unpleasant. Bitter bile burns her throat—a more effective taste reference. Familiar cold metal changes to comforting cold metal , a tell that adds to the paragraph.

All filter words ( heard, smelled, taste, see, felt ) were traded for active replacements.

If you don’t know what filter words are, you can’t avoid them.

Let’s review a partial list of filters and their close relatives. I tried to classify them logically, although some words could appear in multiple groups.

See : appear like, become aware of, detect, discern, distinguish, give the impression of, identify, look, look like, note, notice, observe, perceive, realize, recognize, reveal, seem, sense, sight, spot, watch

Smell : detect the smell of, diagnose, get a whiff of, scent, smell like, whiff

Hear : catch, eavesdrop, overhear, listen to, sound, sound like

Touch : feel, feel like

Taste : appreciate, delight in, enjoy, like, relish, savor, take pleasure in

Know : ascertain, assume, believe, bring to mind, decide, deem, discover, gather, get, glean, guess, infer, intuit, learn, posit, regard, remember, suspect, think, understand, wonder

Experience : be subjected to, face, go through, live through, suffer, take in, undergo

Be able to : be capable of, be equal to, be up to the task, can, could, have the ability to, have what it takes to

Dialogue to the rescue?

Consider the following sentence pairs.

Fabrice stared into the water. The creek looked cold.

Fabrice stared into the creek. “Wow, look at that ice. It must be at least three inches thick.” She shivered.

Sneaky, but effective, this provides an example of a filter word that doesn’t function as a filter. Fabrice describes the ice on the creek, and readers will understand that it’s cold. The shiver reinforces her statement.

Arno heard ringing in both ears.

Arno cupped his ears with his hands. “Will this infernal ringing never stop?”

A combination of body language and dialogue shows readers what Arno experiences, without using a single filter word.

This was crazy. Royce knew it, but he couldn’t stop himself from popping the question.

“Um,” Royce whispered, “I know this is crazy, but would you … will you … marry me?”

Another filter word sneaks into dialogue without functioning as a filter.

By the way, saying that a character knows something is discouraged by editors. Of course your POV character will know _____ [fill in the blank].

If you need to introduce facts, please find a way that doesn’t rely on know/knew or several paragraphs of internal monologue. Overdoing a character’s private thoughts is another practice that annoys readers.

Double-up = double-bad.

Do I need to explain why the following examples represent abuse of filter words?

Vivienne listened and heard _____.

Orson looked and saw _____.

Alice whiffed and detected the smell of _____.

Frank tasted and relished the flavor of _____.

Mallory touched her lips and felt _____.

Each sentence repeats the same sensory filter—double-slap on the wrist for offenders. I can’t administer your punishment, but dissatisfied agents, editors, and readers will.

More examples of filter rescues.

The corporal saw a grenade fly by and land in the foxhole.

A grenade flew by the corporal and landed in the foxhole.

Joe’s belches smelled like booze.

The stench of booze accompanied every belch that Joe disgorged.

Kristina heard a loud scream in the darkness.

A loud scream pierced the darkness surrounding Kristina.

Alva’s fingers touched something wet and sticky.

A sticky liquid adhered to Alva’s fingers.

Johanna smiled. The cake tasted moist and delicious.

Every delicious morsel of cake melted in Johanna’s mouth.

Quint knew Sandy wanted to go out with him.

Sandy wanted to go out with Quint.

Experience :

Emil experienced a huge stress reaction.

Emil’s heart pounded like a gavel, and heat radiated to every extremity.

Be able to :

Raquel was able to sleep well for the first time in days.

For the first time in days, Raquel slept well.

Are you ready to attempt a few filter word exercises?

Try to edit away the filter words. If you like an idea, you’re welcome to snag it as a story prompt.

A few of the suggested solutions include what some editors would classify as filter words, but as I stated at the outset, all words exist for a reason. If you have to hunt through the solutions with a magnifying glass to find the filters, they’ll likely pass muster with most people.

Exercise #1:

Guido felt a host of humongous spiders skittering up his arm. Then he felt several sharp pains. They were followed by the feeling that he was suspended, swaying, trapped in a giant web. He heard a squeaky noise somewhere behind him, but he was unable to turn his head to discern what it was.

Suggested solution :

A host of humongous spiders skittered up Guido’s arm and sank their fangs into his skin. After a moment of disorientation, he found himself suspended, swaying, trapped in a giant web. Somewhere behind him a disembodied squeak sent a shiver down his spine, but the sticky trap immobilized his head, preventing him from investigating the source of the noise.

Exercise #2:

Looking up, Prisca noticed that she and her cohort were standing in the blind spot between cameras. Feeling emboldened, she extended a one-fingered salute in the direction of the CEO’s office. Then she heard a voice bellow from somewhere to her left, “Prisca, you’re fired.”

Prisca ensured that she and her cohort were standing in the blind spot between cameras. Then, she stuck out her tongue and extended a one-fingered salute in the direction of the CEO’s office. A voice bellowed from somewhere to her left, “Prisca, you’re fired.”

Exercise #3:

All Luisa could hear was silence, a silence so complete she could hear her own pulse. She felt nauseated. Where am I? The last thing I remember was stepping into the elevator.

The silence surrounding Luisa was so complete that the ka-thump of her pulse pounded in her ears. A wave of nausea engulfed her. Where am I? The last thing I remember was stepping into the elevator.

Exercise #4:

The restaurant smelled like garlic, charbroiled steak, and a faint odor that could have been licorice or fennel. Clint felt hungry, but not hungry enough to chance being poisoned again.

Delicious aromas of garlic, charbroiled steak, and a faint suggestion of licorice or fennel beckoned Clint toward the restaurant. However, his hunger wasn’t powerful enough for him to chance being poisoned again.

Exercise #5:

Sir Edgar decided he would never be able to reveal his love for Princess Edwina. He knew she loved him too, and she would be in danger if their enemies thought they could get to her through him.

The bitter truth forced itself on Sir Edgar: He must never reveal his love for Princess Edwina. She loved him too, and she would be in danger if their enemies could get to her through him.

By Kathy Steinemann, @KathySteinemann , June 11, 2017

Her writing tips blog has won multiple awards as one of the top blogs for writers.

Her career has taken varying directions, including positions as editor of a small-town paper, computer-network administrator, and webmaster. She has also worked on projects in commercial art and cartooning. You’ll find her at KathySteinemann.com , Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest.

What about you, scriveners? Do you look out for filter words in your writing? I’m editing the new Camilla book now, and these tips are really helping me. But do remember these are guidelines, not hard and fast rules!

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About Anne R. Allen

Anne writes funny mysteries and how-to-books for writers. She also writes poetry and short stories on occasion. Oh, yes, and she blogs. She's a contributor to Writer's Digest and the Novel and Short Story Writer's Market.

Her bestselling Camilla Randall Mystery RomCom Series features perennially down-on-her-luck former socialite Camilla Randall—who is a magnet for murder, mayhem and Mr. Wrong, but always solves the mystery in her quirky, but oh-so-polite way.

Anne lives on the Central Coast of California, near San Luis Obispo, the town Oprah called "The Happiest City in America."

June 11, 2017 at 10:32 am

Thanks for your informative blog, Anne!

The advice in this post would apply to non-fiction as well. In a memoir, biography, or news story, filter words distance readers just as much as they do in fiction.

June 11, 2017 at 10:45 am

Unique post, Kathy! Thank you. My advanced students will benefit from this, and I’ll point them to it.

June 11, 2017 at 10:51 am

My pleasure, Melodie.

Thanks for stopping by.

June 11, 2017 at 10:52 am

Kathy, thanks for an informative post–made even better by your excellent examples. Now off to check my WiP for no-nos! 🙂

June 11, 2017 at 11:04 am

Heh heh, Ruth. I feel for you.

June 11, 2017 at 11:02 am

Wish I’d known all that before I began writing. Felt was definitely a word I overused and in all the wrong places. Excellent examples – thanks, Kathy!

June 11, 2017 at 11:07 am

Thanks for stopping by, Alex. Reading older works is like viewing photos of the past. We grow as writers with every word we type.

June 11, 2017 at 11:57 am

This was fantastic! Thank you. I’m so glad Alex tweeted this article.

June 11, 2017 at 1:09 pm

Thanks, Elsie!

June 11, 2017 at 12:42 pm

Thank you, Kathy, Great advice and the exercises were fun. My WIP is in first person and my protagonist has a very expressive voice. I’m thinking I should probably be more diligent with my efforts to keep her in check!

June 11, 2017 at 1:07 pm

Hi, Christine.

First-person narration involves people in a way they don’t experience with second and third person. Although it can cause excessive filtering, curbing the filtering isn’t impossible.

See http://kathysteinemann.com/Musings/i-i-i/ for a few suggestions.

Good luck with your WIP!

June 11, 2017 at 1:11 pm

Thank you for your excellent advice, Kathy. I’ve bookmarked this post for future reference. Really enjoyed having a go at the exercises.

June 11, 2017 at 1:18 pm

Thanks, Wendy.

With hundreds of thousands of words to choose from, the options for the exercise solutions are almost unlimited.

June 11, 2017 at 1:39 pm

Thanks for the lesson, Kathy. A word of caution may be helpful here. I think some inexperienced writers go overboard in trying to avoid certain no-no’s, such as filter words. In their zeal, the sometimes end up with convoluted sentences or words that don’t really serve their purpose.

June 11, 2017 at 1:49 pm

Good point, Tricia. Most “rules” should be treated as guidelines. Writing is a creative process–not a series of formulas. So far, computers haven’t been able to duplicate creativity, although scientists at Dartmouth College tried to develop a poetic computer.

http://www.npr.org/sections/alltechconsidered/2016/06/27/480639265/human-or-machine-can-you-tell-who-wrote-these-poems

June 11, 2017 at 2:02 pm

Thanks for the tips on words to avoid, Kathy. I have a whole list of words to avoid and will add these to my list. Your suggested changes made it easy to see how using filter words really weakens your writing.

June 11, 2017 at 2:04 pm

Thanks for reading the post, Natalie. I’m glad you found the examples helpful.

June 11, 2017 at 2:29 pm

I just caught one in my WIP due to reading this earlier. I have returned to say thanks for writing this post. I shall bookmark it for later.

Have wonderful evening.

June 11, 2017 at 4:10 pm

I’m glad you found it helpful, Jacqueline!

You have a wonderful evening too.

June 11, 2017 at 3:48 pm

It seems to me that it would be easier to write the first draft using filter words (at least for me) and then go back and fix them in the second draft. at least until someone (like me) gains more experience writing and can naturally write without using them naturally.

June 11, 2017 at 4:14 pm

Hemingway would agree with you, RJ. A book requires multiple edits before it’s ready for readers. Some writers like to catch this potential problem in the first draft. Others prefer to wait.

June 11, 2017 at 4:41 pm

OW! Your itty bitty heel just crushed my size 12 foot. Or is it WOW! Did I just get schooled on filtering. Did not even know that was something to watch out for. Thank you. Now off I go to sign up for your blog. Then to my WIP for serious edit/rewrite.

June 11, 2017 at 4:51 pm

Heh heh. Do you need an itty-bitty bandage or a humongous pressure dressing, David?

June 12, 2017 at 9:38 am

A humongous pressure dressing. My WIP is hemorrhaging all over the page.

June 12, 2017 at 10:45 am

Haha. Maybe apply some styptic powder as well?

June 11, 2017 at 5:11 pm

Fantastic article from Kathy on word filtering and I enjoyed tinkering with the exercises too. Thanks Kathy and Anne. 🙂

June 11, 2017 at 7:10 pm

Thanks, DG! It would be interesting to see some of the exercise solutions. I should have requested that in the post.

June 12, 2017 at 6:49 am

Yes! I actually did a few of them (in my head of course). Great explanations and examples Kathy. 🙂

June 11, 2017 at 7:24 pm

Excellent post. Thanks heaps to both of you.

June 11, 2017 at 7:29 pm

Thanks for stopping by, CS!

June 12, 2017 at 12:30 am

Kathy, this is brilliant advice! I think, nay, I’m sure I’ve overdone practically all those “filter words”! As English is my second language, it makes it all that much harder to figure out what is and what is not a filter word.

But now I see the point. Filter words are over-used because they are “catch all” and so they lose their own personality. They lose meaning. They don’t evoke anything in the reader’s mind. The verb to feel is a perfect case in point: you can feel hot, cold, scared, happy, sad etc. and even feel hate for someone!

Many thanks, this was an eye-opener.

June 12, 2017 at 5:19 am

I’m pleased this post is helpful for you, Claude, and I applaud you for writing in English even though it’s not your native language.

As I say on my website in the blog post that links to this one, filters “act like a coffee machine. Water takes time to drip through the filter while you wait for the reward: a delicious cup of aromatic ambrosia that glides down your throat.”

The fault is not with the words, but with when and how often they appear.

June 12, 2017 at 1:23 am

Thanks for providing such a nice information on Writing , Excellent article! I make this mistake all the time. It is amazing how much losing those filter words improves the story.!

June 12, 2017 at 10:43 am

Thanks for stopping by, 3.

June 12, 2017 at 4:21 am

Wonderful post Kathy! I especially appreciate that you mention the distinction between effective and redundant filter words. I’ve seen my share of editors who fail to distinguish, a one-size-fits-all strategy that leaves manuscripts devoid of these words and, consequently, deprives us of fhe interior aspect of story. We do need to look inside sometimes! What we don’t need it to be told when someone is looking outside because the nature of POV itself implies what’s being related is the inner experience of the outer world. What I truly love about your examples here is how you demonstrate the abstract to concrete conversion writing undergoes when one clearn the fog, so to speak — because that’s exactly what a paragraph or sentence is like when we’re being told what the POV character is experiencing rather than shown. Beautiful and insightful stuff! Thank you!

June 12, 2017 at 5:34 am

Thanks, John.

Yes, filter words are like salt. Sprinkled with caution, they augment writing; used too frequently, and they smother it. If anyone suggests the complete removal of any word, I recommend that they take a page of their WIP and eliminate every the . Not a pretty result.

Words exist for a reason.

June 12, 2017 at 7:40 am

This is excellent and really helpful. I love the exercises. They’re great examples of how to write in a way that will engage the reader by not “telling” him/her everything that’s going on with the character. Thank you.

June 12, 2017 at 7:53 am

Thanks, Patricia. Telling sometimes gets a bum rap, but it’s generally better to show .

June 12, 2017 at 9:59 am

Excellent advice. Thank you for all the examples. I learn best from those. <3

June 12, 2017 at 10:49 am

Thanks, Colleen. I learn best from examples too.

June 12, 2017 at 10:11 am

Great post. With a search feature, a writer can hunt out these mistakes and rewrite. Deep POV pulls readers into the heart of the story and avoids cliche writing.

June 12, 2017 at 10:46 am

Thanks, Beth. Yes, search works well as long as a writer knows what to search for.

June 12, 2017 at 1:24 pm

A most helpful post. This is another to archive for future reference.

June 12, 2017 at 2:33 pm

Thanks for stopping by Anne and Ruth’s blog, V.M.

June 12, 2017 at 2:51 pm

I wasn’t going to bother reading this post, Kathy, but apart from being very funny in places, it turned out to be a good reminder of the need to be more direct in our writing. So easy to fall back into the old habits!

June 12, 2017 at 7:19 pm

I’m glad you stayed long enough to read. Have a great week!

June 13, 2017 at 2:56 am

A Very helpful post. Loved all the tips mentioned by you especially the exercises. Thanks!

June 13, 2017 at 10:31 am

Thanks, Feelings . Interesting filter name. *grin*

June 13, 2017 at 4:09 am

Love it! I am so sharing this with my critique group! I found these exact issues in the MSs I read last night….now I have a name and a fix for them to share with the group as well as reminders for myself on what to avoid-:D

June 13, 2017 at 5:49 am

Thanks, Cat! I wonder if a Filter Addicts Anonymous group would fly. Oh–FAA. I think … nope. The Federal Aviation Administration might object.

June 13, 2017 at 8:40 am

Top notch. Many writers don’t understand or even know about filter words. Excellent info.

June 13, 2017 at 10:30 am

Thanks, Paul. English contains so many filter words, but I picked those I considered most likely to be overused.

June 15, 2017 at 5:51 am

I think the only one I disagree with is the restaurant example. (She frowned at the post and sat scanning through its lines at top speed. Suddenly, upon reaching a particular example, a pang of dismay shot through her! How could she disagree with something so well written?!)

While it’s telling, I think it’s dependent on whether or not this is some huge plot driven thing or just a passing thought in the character’s head that may end up on the cutting room floor anyway.

Still, this has me going back through my (many, overwhelming :v) WIPs now, today, to eyeball them. It’s a hell of a good point to make and I see a lot of this getting through editors, especially in YA fiction. I guarantee we all do it, but we shouldn’t~!

June 15, 2017 at 10:26 am

Thanks for stopping by, Lizzy!

The first sentence in the suggested solution for Exercise #4 takes smells that are filtered through Clint’s senses and presents an active portrayal of the aromas. Although the second sentence is tell , it’s unrealistic to use show everywhere without creating word bloat.

I’m reminded of an author who sometimes takes several paragraphs or pages to describe a scene (show) . I end up flipping through the pages, ignoring his brilliant writing, until I reach the meat of the story.

Good luck with your WIPs. Plural? Excellent. You’re a busy writer.

June 15, 2017 at 11:03 am

I think some of this just goes back to the good old “don’t write in passive tense”. If everything is active and popping, even if Bill is just snoring on his lounge chair, it’s more interesting than hearing that bill’s snoring in his loung chair. It’s tricksy. This is still a primo article though.

And yeah, quite a few WIPs. Everything actively getting written on, too. It’s fun to have everybody hollering in your head at the same time 😀 Thank you though!

June 15, 2017 at 10:03 am

This is the most useful advice on craft I have seen in a very long time. Thank you so much for this!

June 15, 2017 at 1:09 pm

Thanks for stopping by, Amy.

I’m always on the prowl looking for new topics and overused words to research for my next book. Do you have any nemeses?

June 15, 2017 at 1:12 pm

I need to go back over my WIP. I know I’ve used filter words. The question is, as someone said earlier, do I do it now, or do I finish the first draft and then go back and kill them off?

June 15, 2017 at 1:16 pm

Well, V.M., many authors like to rush through the first draft, like basting a hem on a skirt, not worrying about filters, grammar, or clichés. Others prefer a more cautious approach. Whatever works best for you is right.

June 15, 2017 at 8:26 pm

Terrific article. Thanks for sharing Anne… I was lucky only found one in my latest short….Not too bad. LOL… There are were many I learned about that I didn’t know were filters….

June 15, 2017 at 8:46 pm

When I saw “only one,” I just about swallowed my tongue–and then you said it was a short. 🙂

Thanks for your comment, Michael. Filter words are tricky. We use them all the time in speech and writing. Not having any in a novel is unrealistic, but it would be interesting to see someone try. Best seller?

June 16, 2017 at 9:11 pm

LOL… It was a really short, short, Kathy. Only about 700 words. If I were you I would probably have reacted the same way. Thanks again for informing us of the DANGERS of Filters.

It would be interesting to try a novel …. It would probably take years and the author may lose his/her sanity. I think I’ll pass.

June 19, 2017 at 1:53 pm

Excellent article on the virtues of showing instead of telling. I’d never heard of filter words, so it was educational.

June 19, 2017 at 4:01 pm

Thanks, Thomas. Telling can be useful if not overdone. Likewise with filters.

June 19, 2017 at 4:16 pm

Kathy, I can’t thank you enough for this fantastic post. It’s been one of our most popular posts ever, with over 5000 hits in a week! Ruth and I are so happy you visited us! Thanks!!

June 19, 2017 at 4:19 pm

Thanks for the opportunity to participate with your readers, Anne and Ruth!

June 19, 2017 at 4:20 pm

Duh. “Interact” is a better word. I’ve been out in the sun too long murdering dandelions with my Dynasteam.

June 30, 2017 at 6:04 pm

Great advice.

June 30, 2017 at 8:14 pm

Thanks, Rugby!

July 1, 2017 at 2:18 am

Great post. I love the added exercises 🙂 — Suzanne

July 1, 2017 at 5:52 am

Thanks, Suzanne.

July 1, 2017 at 10:23 am

Fantastic post – and one I really needed to hear! Love the examples and the additional exercises. Thanks so much!

July 1, 2017 at 12:39 pm

Thanks, Julia!

July 1, 2017 at 11:37 am

Thanks for the informative post and practical tips. A big help!

July 1, 2017 at 12:40 pm

Thanks, Paula!

July 1, 2017 at 12:41 pm

Oops. Your name is probably Paul. 😉

July 4, 2017 at 3:03 am

You’re right. I would love to translate your book. When I’m translating a book, I’m always thinking: “Oh, she’s FEELING again!”… As a translator, I become bored with books full of “he said, she told, he asked”. Please, writers, try to make your vocabulary richer. Try to make us translators suffer in each line. 🙂

July 4, 2017 at 10:44 am

Thanks for your comment, Rosina.

Heh heh. It would be interesting to see a book about grammar and English translated into a different language. 😉

July 4, 2017 at 5:26 am

Excellent tips. I know I’ve overused them in early works and I still catch myself using some here and there. Thankfully I don’t think I’ve ever doubled up though. I’ve employed the dialogue cheat once in a while too haha

July 4, 2017 at 6:19 am

Thanks, Pat.

The dialogue cheat works well. Too many writers ramble on for page after page without dialogue, creating a story that leaves readers disconnected.

July 9, 2017 at 3:43 am

Very useful post. Thanks.

July 9, 2017 at 9:05 am

Thanks for stopping by Anne and Ruth’s blog, Norah.

July 26, 2017 at 1:15 am

Thanks Kathy for your informative article and Anne for posting, as well as reblogging on Chris The Story Reading Ape’s blog. I’ve shared via https://twitter.com/SuzanneNewnham & https://www.facebook.com/suzannenewnhamwriter/

July 26, 2017 at 10:39 am

Thanks, Suzanne!

August 2, 2017 at 7:27 am

What a great list! The examples are very helpful and a good reminder. It’s easy in the first draft to use filter words just to get the story out. I’ll use this blog in my next copy edit. Thanks,

August 2, 2017 at 9:39 am

Thanks, Kristina! I feel as though your blog will look like you realize the importance of avoiding filter words. Whew. How many did I just cram into one sentence? 😉

September 8, 2017 at 2:56 pm

Totally useful blog post. I’m going to print it out and keep it near my keyboard for quick reference. I have a question for you that perhaps you’ve already covered in another post. What to you think of the overuse of words in dialogue, such as: well, yes, no, ah, oh, etc.?

September 8, 2017 at 4:22 pm

Thanks for stopping by, Carol!

October 4, 2017 at 9:01 pm

I just got my first novel back from the editor and “filter words” and “changes in POV” were the two biggest issues. I hope to use the advice here to go find the filter words and edit because I didn’t even know what that meant.

October 5, 2017 at 5:30 am

Good luck with your edits, Myloe!

March 4, 2018 at 2:26 am

Thank you for this informative article. You can never know enough about sentence structuring and conveying stronger meaning in writing.

September 16, 2018 at 10:13 am

Sorry for the late reply, Robbie. Thanks for stopping by Anne and Ruth’s blog!

June 7, 2018 at 12:08 am

I really enjoyed this post on filter words. Yours is one of the best. And I LOVED that you included some exercise passages for us to work on. I went ahead and wrote my own before looking at your suggestion solutions. It is interesting to see how different writers work out problems in sentences and passages.

I thought I might share a couple of my own reworked passages from the exercise examples too :)!

Exercise #3: Silence enveloped Luisa. A silence so complete that her own pulse thumped in her ears like the boom of a drum. Her stomach turned with nausea. Where am I? The last thing I remember was stepping into the elevator.

Exercise #5: Sir Edgar could never reveal his love for Princess Edwina. It wasn’t that he was unsure of her reciprocation. Indeed, it was true that she loved him in return. No. It was their enemies he was afraid of, whose twisted ruthlessness knew no bounds. They would do anything to get to Princess Edwina. His silence would keep them safe, though this fact did little to comfort Sir Edgar’s yearning heart.

September 16, 2018 at 10:16 am

Thanks for sharing your workarounds, Lily. I enjoy seeing how other authors approach creative writing.

June 7, 2018 at 5:52 am

Thank you for that, Kathy. I’ve just finished the first draft of my latest novel and this will be most helpful in the rewrite. I’m sure I have LOADS of filter words in there. I’ve got your Writers’ Lexicon. It’s most useful.

September 16, 2018 at 10:19 am

Thanks, Vivienne. I must have unsubscribed to post comments when I cleared out my WordPress subscriptions early this year. 🙁

I’m glad you find The Writer’s Lexicon useful, and thank you for commenting both here and on my own website.

Have a great week!

June 8, 2018 at 10:43 pm

Good post, Anne. High on information, low on self-aggrandizement.

Thanks for reading and commenting, Rod.

September 25, 2018 at 12:41 pm

I have praise for your assistance, but also feel marginalised by one of you examples:

“A host of humongous spiders skittered up Guido’s arm and sank their fangs into his skin. After a moment of disorientation, he found himself suspended, swaying, trapped in a giant web. Somewhere behind him a disembodied squeak sent a shiver down his spine, but the sticky trap immobilized his head, preventing him from investigating the source of the noise.”

I tried my own version that was based on the minimal information given in the prior text. My outcome was poor in comparison (correct, but lacking the direction you took), because you had a literary license to write what you want.

In other words you guessed, or knew, what the predicament was in the first place.

In the first passage there is no mention of a spider web, and you have presumed an immobilised head, whereas the story could have been referencing total immobilisation.

A further observation:

There are times in a novel you want a secondary character’s involvement to be limited, so a quick option drives the story past the incident and back to the main characters (as per a movie hero rescuing in the damsel, though we no involvement in how the damsel came to be in the predicament).

You’ve no mention or guidance as to how such situations can be treated even though they exist in most stories.

It was an excellent piece and I learnt much from the article, thank you. Leo

September 25, 2018 at 1:09 pm

Thanks for stopping by, Leo.

Rather than provide iron-clad answers, I prefer to offer guidelines.

A writer’s imagination keeps readers engrossed. You thought of another scenario. Thumbs up. That’s what makes you different from me and millions of other writers. Readers don’t want the same-old same-old

September 25, 2018 at 1:13 pm

It’s fine to gloss over secondary characters if they slow the narrative. Readers balk when forced to remember endless names of people who don’t contribute to the main storyline.

September 18, 2019 at 9:11 pm

Excellent list and exercises, Kathy. Thanks for sharing this.

January 8, 2020 at 2:17 pm

So I guess the MC kvetching about something is out too.

January 17, 2020 at 6:35 pm

I love showing in writing. Yet I’ve had people tell me I was using too much description (maybe I was) and that the writing flows much faster when you just tell. I disagree. To me, showing immerses you deeper into the story.

August 12, 2020 at 7:50 am

This article completely transformed my writing! I had no idea what filtering was and I realized I had at least one filtering word in every sentence of my novel! So far this is the most detailed and helpful article I’ve read about filtering.

November 2, 2020 at 9:25 am

Great article! I’ve shared it with other writer friends and re-read, at times, before diving into edits.

I’m obliged to caution against the EXCESSIVE elimination of filters, evidenced by one of the examples in this article, which eliminates one problem by creating two others:

Know: Quint knew Sandy wanted to go out with him.

The suggested “fix” does NOT communicate the same thing as the original sentence. The original sentence is written in Quint’s POV and expresses his understanding of what Sandy wants. The ‘fix’ sentence is in Sandy’s POV and only states her desire; Quint’s knowledge of it was lost entirely.

Both issues could probably be fixed by context; if the whole chapter is narrated by Quint, then it can be assumed that Quint knows everything that’s narrated.

For the sake of the example, suggest adding an active reaction on Quint’s part to what he knows.

Sandy wanted to go out with him! Quint shivered as a thrill of excitement shot through him.

May 14, 2021 at 5:46 am

A good reply. Authors must be careful not to take these kinds of blog posts as rules of thumb. The use of verbs often helps eliminate excessive description which can also cause distance.

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Home / Book Editing / Words to Avoid in Writing: Weak Words to Find, Cut, and Replace

Words to Avoid in Writing: Weak Words to Find, Cut, and Replace

When you're writing your book, it is common to include a lot of words that you don't need. This doesn't mean you are a bad writer, because everyone does this.

Additionally, there are so many words that are unnecessary, and many authors don't even know it. As you gain experience writing, you will find that these words feel stale, and there are better words to replace them.

Thankfully, using the advice in this article, you can turn weak phrases into good writing and become a better writer in the process.

So what do you do about all of these words, and how can you find them?

• The different types of words to cut
• A list of specific words you should avoid
• How to find and replace these words

Note: in this article, we will be using ProWritingAid and Atticus as software examples to get this job done. These are our best recommendations for a proofreading software and a writing software, respectively. However, much of this can also be done in almost any writing program you use. It just might take a little longer. Some of these links may also be affiliate links.

Types of Words to Cut

While we do provide a list of the most common words to look for, there are whole categories of words that you should avoid in your writing, unless you have a specific reason to use them.

Adverbs are words that usually end in “–ly”. They can be helpful, but should not be overused. Adverbs are a good example of “telling, not showing”, when there is a better action verb or descriptor to convey the same information.

To Be Verbs

To be verbs include the words was, is, are, were, etc. While these verbs are certainly necessary, they often act as a big signpost that a better verb could be used.

For example, instead of saying “John was tired,” you could say, “John rubbed his eyes,” or, “John collapsed in his chair.”

Once again, to be verbs provide a clue that you are telling instead of showing.

To be verbs are also a potential sign of passive voice. For example, instead of saying “the ball was thrown by John,” you could say “John threw the ball.” 

Prepositional Phrases

A prepositional phrase is a short phrase that ends with a noun, phrases that often increase the length of the sentence.

An example could be, “at the store,” or, “near the middle,”. There are usually better ways to phrase these sentences.

Run-on Sentences

While a little harder to spot using a find and replace feature, run-on sentences are sentences that go on for too long. There are two kinds of run-ons: fused and comma splices. A fused sentence consists of two independent clauses  fused  together with no punctuation; a comma splice has two independent clauses joined together by a comma.

To fix them, you must either insert a coordinating conjunction, separate them into two separate sentences with a period, or use a semi-colon.

Some tools, such as the Hemingway app , as well as a report in ProWritingAid , will help you identify potential run-on sentences.

Nominalizations

Nominalization are verbs or adjectives that are turned into a noun, when it would be better to keep them as an adjective or verb.

Examples include words like collection, analysis, slowness, intention, accuracy, disagreement, or suggestion.

For example, the phrase, “she performed an analysis,” would usually be better off said, “she analyzed.”

Tautologies

Tautologies are words and phrases that mean the same thing, meaning you can cut one of the words.

Examples include things like “evening sunset”, or “autobiography of her life.” In these examples “evening” and “of her life” mean the same thing as “sunset” and “autobiography” respectively. You don't need both.

Excessive Dialogue Tags

Dialogue tags are necessary when constructing good dialogue, as they inform the reader who is speaking.

However, if you have a conversation between two people, putting a dialogue tag at the end of every single piece of dialogue becomes excessive. Sooner or later, the reader will know who is speaking, and the tags begin to slow down the pacing.

Therefore, when you have two people talking, include the dialogue tags at the beginning of the conversation, but remove them as the conversation progresses.

Overused Words

We all have these, and it is different for every author. There are words that you rely on more than others. These could be words like grin, sigh, suddenly, etc.

Get to know your own personal writing style and identify the words you use as a crutch. ProWritingAid can help with this, as they have a tool that quickly identifies your most-used words.

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Specific Words to Avoid

Now that we've covered some of the basic categories of words to avoid, let's look at individual words that should be a big warning sign for you.

Feeling and Thinking Words

These are words like felt, feel, think, thought, wonder, ponder, understand, realize, or believe.

All of these words are usually unnecessary, and they are signs that you are telling, not showing. There are usually better verbs to use, or you can rephrase the sentence to show more.

This way, you are not distancing yourself from the viewpoint character. You can get directly inside their head, instead of describing what they are feeling.

Example: instead of saying “I thought the food tasted horrible,” you could say, “Yuck! That food made me gag.” 

“Then” is a commonly used word to transition in a sequence of events. It is overused and can sound basic. Try rearranging your words, and use “and” instead.

Example: instead of “I tripped on the dance floor, then fell flat on my face, then everyone laughed at me,” say, “I tripped on the dance floor, fell flat on my face, and everyone laughed.”

Words like breathe, breath, inhale, exhale, etc. are words frequently relied on by authors to show an internal character emotion. I know for myself that I relied far too heavily on “let out a breath I didn't know I was holding” in my early books.

This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it can get overly repetitive. Instead, change it up by finding another way to show what caused that character to breathe differently.

Example: instead of “David rushed around the corner and I inhaled sharply,” use, “David rushed around the corner, a manic look in his eye, and my body tensed.”

Shrug, Nod, Smile, Reach

These are common words used by authors over and over again. While this doesn't make them bad, you want to make sure there isn't a more accurate and specific way of describing the situation.

Sometimes, a smile is just a smile, and you don't need a more specific word or phrase, but sometimes you've used it too often, and you need a better way of saying it.

Example: instead of, “He reached for the hammer,” use, “He lunged for the hammer.”

Really, Very

Really and Very are heavily used in writing but are almost always inferior. In almost every situation, there is a stronger adjective that will describe the situation more accurately (the exception, of course, is when a character might use them in dialogue).

Example: instead of, “the giant was very big,” use, “the giant towered over me.”

Just is a word, similar to “very” or “really” that can be easily deleted. It is unnecessary in most situations, and often doesn't even need a replacement.

Example: instead of, “he just wants to be loved,” say, “he wants to be loved.”

“That” is a necessary word, but is often overused. There are many instances when you can remove the word and maintain the meaning of the phrase.

Example: instead of “Dave told Jason that that explosion was deliberate,” say, “Dave told Jason the explosion was deliberate.”

Overused -ly Adverbs

Adverbs should be reduced in general, but there are some that are overused more, including: totally, completely, absolutely, literally, definitely, certainly, probably, actually, basically, virtually.

All of these words add nothing to the sentence, and you can usually remove them. An action word makes a better replacement.

Example: instead of “the drawer was completely full of socks,” say, “the drawer was full of socks.”

“Thing” and “It” are vague words that don't accurately describe what you're talking about. When possible, replace these words with a more specific word to describe the object you are referring to.

The exception for “it” occurs when you have already used the object's name in a sentence, in which case you can use “it” as the correct pronoun going forward.

Example: Instead of, “Bring me that thing,” say, “Bring me that book/smartphone/food/etc.”

Start, Begin

Words like start, begin, began, and begun are often unnecessary, as you can just describe the action instead, with the “starting” of that action already implied.

Example: instead of, “she began to run,” say, “she ran”.

“There was” is a common way to start a sentence, and can be easily replaced by a more descriptive action.

Example: instead of, “there was a cat scratching at the door,” say, “a cat scratched at the door.”

“Up” and “down” are often unnecessary words, since the direction is usually implied by other words in the sentence. Analyze whether you need these words, and delete if necessary.

Example: instead of, “she sat down on the carpet,” say, “she sat on the carpet.”

“Have got” is a tautology, meaning that both words mean the same thing. Instead, you can just use “have”.

Additionally, “got” is not a useful word overall, and you can usually find a better word to use instead.

Example: instead of, “she got to her feet,” say, “she leapt to her feet.”

“Literally” is a word that is often used out of context, in a situation where it is not meant to be taken…literally. Make sure that when you use this word, that it means what it says.

There are exceptions, like when a character is supposed to talk that way, but generally you should avoid it.

Example: instead of “The sun was so hot, John was literally melting,” you can remove the word “literally” or replace it with a word like “practically”.

“About” is a vague word that doesn't specify anything. You can use words like “approximately” or provide a more specific range instead.

Example: instead of “the wall was about 10 feet high,” say, “the wall was between 10 and 12 feet high.”

Filler Phrases

There are a lot of filler words and phrases that can be entirely cut from your manuscript. These words and phrases include:

• Each and every
• In order to
• At the end of the day
• As a matter of fact
• For all intents and purposes
• For the most part
• With regard to
• In reference to
• Needless to say
• It is important to note that
• During the course of
• When it comes to
• Due to the fact

All of these phrases are empty, add no new meaning to the sentence, and should be avoided.

Example: instead of, “At the end of the day, it is important to note that, as of yet, we have not found a cure for the common cold,” say, “We have not yet found a cure for the common cold.”

Sort of, Kind of

These two phrases are used often in spoken language, but are unnecessary in writing. They are empty phrases that mean nothing and you can easily eliminate them.

The meaning can shift slightly when you eliminate it, so make sure that there isn’t a better way to say it, or that it means what you want it to say.

Example: Instead of “The meeting progressed kind of on schedule,” say, “The meeting progressed on schedule.”

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How to Cut These Words From Your Book

The best tool to cut an unnecessary word from your creative writing is a standard Find and Replace feature. While you can access this in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and others, I’m going to be using Atticus , which uses a special system built specifically for writers.

In Atticus , you can access the Find and Replace feature by selecting the More Tools button on the top right, then selecting the icon that looks like a magnifying glass.

Then, you have a number of options.

• You can select whether to search through a single chapter or the whole book
• Input the word you are searching for into the Find section
• You can select whether to match the whole word or match the case
• Scroll through the Previous and Next copy of that word
• Input the word you want to replace (if needed)

Once you have inputted your word into the “Find” field, you can then see how many times that word appears in each chapter, as shown in the chapter menu.

Simply Find and Replace, or Find and go through them one by one to ensure the change is what you want.

If the Find and Replace feature isn’t enough, you can use a program like ProWritingAid (which also integrates with Atticus).

ProWritingAid is better than Find and Replace for some types of word searches, such as overused words that you might not know you are overusing, or cases of passive voice and filler phrases.

Those who purchase the lifetime version of ProWritingAid through our link get a 20% off coupon ! That’s a huge savings for the lifetime package, which provides incredible savings on its own. 

ProWritingAid is (by far) our top pick for authors. It’s great for long-form writing, academic writing, or a blog post, and has more reports than any other grammar checker.

So take these tools and writing advice and use them to improve your academic paper, short story, or novel.

Jason Hamilton

When I’m not sipping tea with princesses or lightsaber dueling with little Jedi, I’m a book marketing nut. Having consulted multiple publishing companies and NYT best-selling authors, I created Kindlepreneur to help authors sell more books. I’ve even been called “The Kindlepreneur” by Amazon publicly, and I’m here to help you with your author journey.

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How to Identity and Cut Your Crutch Words

All writers have weaknesses, and for many of us they’re hidden within our sentences. Crutch words. These are the words we overuse, words that don’t add to the story itself and often aren’t even needed.

It seemed like the prince was about to kneel, and then he did. He held the glass slipper gently, almost tenderly, in one hand. He tilted his head back slightly, apparently to look at her. “May I?”

The prince knelt, glass slipper held gently in one hand. He glanced up. “May I?” In the first example, the wordiness threatens to stall the action. Every verb is modified, so that we end up with a muddy text.

In the edited example, the prose is much tighter and cleaner. We get straight to the point without losing nice details, like the way he holds the slipper. With less time spend on “seemed” and “almost”, we have more time to get straight to the next exciting part of the scene. Before:

My fingers nearly tremble, but this time it’s not really a lot of hunger or sadness that seems to gnaw my insides. It’s an almost painful warmth. Hope.

I think I might have realized what’s really going on: A supervillain appears to live on my street. And I feel like that’s basically the headline news that I’m looking for.

Here’s the scoop: A supervillain lives on my street. And it’s just the sort of headline news I’m looking for. In this example, we not only get tidier prose—we get a huge change in the style of narration. While the “before” narrator is vague, undecided, and wordy, the second is snappy, quick, and energetic. You probably wouldn’t be surprised to find out this is the narration of a kid reporter.

Delete! Delete! Delete!

Once you have a list of the crutch words in your manuscript, you’re ready to start revising. There are a couple of different ways to do this:

1. Print it out. When your writing is on paper, the flaws are revealed in ways that just don’t come across on the screen. To mix it up, try changing the line spacing or margins—this will force you to look at the text in an even newer way. Keep your list handy and read with an eye for the crutch words.

2. Use your word processor’s “replace” function. Put the crutch word into both Find and Replace, but change the formatting preferences in the replace bar to “highlight”. This will light your pages up like a Christmas tree and make it impossible to miss those words.

3. Listen to your manuscript. Read it out loud yourself, or have a friend or program read it to you. Again, keep that list handy and mark down changes when your trouble words pop.

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17 Weak Words to Avoid in Your Writing

Want to make your writing a little stronger? Check out these 17 words to avoid!

Exact Words to Avoid

1. “really,” “very”

These words are usually unnecessary and can be cut out. If you need a stronger adjective, find one rather than adding “really” or “very” to it. (Exception: can be used sparingly in dialogue because it makes a character more realistic.)

2. “just”

“Just” is another word similar to “really” and, for the most part, should be deleted.

3. “that”

In general, beginning authors use too many of this word in their writing. Even old pros often search this word during the editing process to delete those that are unnecessary. Deleting extra words strengths your work.

4. “totally,” “completely,” “absolutely”

Like the previous words, these words don’t add to the sentence and can often be removed. Try using actions to show the feelings instead.

5.  “thing,” “it”

“Thing” is vague and weak. Instead, replace “thing” with whatever you are talking about. Do the same with it. Unless you’ve already used the object you’re talking about in the sentence, don’t use  the word “it.”

6. “there was”

Instead of starting of a sentence with the words “there was,” try rewording to put the action back in.

7. “as” used as a subordinate conjunction

“As” is confusing to the reader since it has two meanings: it can show that two things are happening at the same time, or it can show one thing is happening because of the other. Instead of using “as” for the second meaning, use the word “because” or “since” to make the meaning clear.

8. “down” or “up”

When used with a verb, these two words are usually unnecessary. For example, “He sat down on the dirty floor” should instead be “He sat on the dirty floor.”

9. “armed” in “armed gunman”

If the person is a gunman, then they are armed. Again, be careful to avoid redundant phrases.

10. “brief” in “brief moment”

All moments are brief; that’s why they’re moments.

11. “have got”

Avoid “got” where possible. Instead of saying “have got,” just use “have.” And actually, “got” isn’t a very useful word in any situation. Consider using the word sparingly. Instead of “She got to her feet,” you can say, “She leapt/jumped/climbed/hurried to her feet.” Anything to show better action.

12. “then” and “next”

When used to describe a sequence of events, these words are weak transitions. Sometimes you can remove the word without consequence; other times, you need to rewrite the sentence to show the sequence through action. For more examples, please see our post Make Your Book Stronger by Avoiding “Then.”

13. “literally”

Is it actually  literal? Avoid this word unless using it in dialogue (and even then it can get old fast).

Types of Words to Avoid

14. be-verbs

Be-verbs (was, is, are, were, etc.) are weak and boring. Instead try to use action verbs. Especially avoid be-verbs paired with -ing verbs when they aren’t needed. For a simple example: “She was running through the forest when she tripped on a raised tree root” can be changed to “She ran through the forest and tripped on a raised tree root” or “Running through the forest, she tripped over a raise tree root and sprawled on the ground.” You get the idea!

Note, though, that sometimes a be-verb is what you need. We only advise that you avoid them when you can, without writing an awkward construction.

15. -ly adverbs

When you use -ly adverbs, you are telling instead of showing (which, in case you haven’t heard, is bad). Use -ly adverbs sparingly when writing fiction and instead, describe an action! We talk about this more in our post on dialogue tags (tip # 7) .

16. “shrug,” “nod,” “reach,” “grin,” “sigh,” or any dialogue beats you overuse

We’re not telling you to  not  use these words. These words are examples of dialogue beats that often get overused , but each author has their own habits and their own words. Are your characters always shrugging, grinning, or sighing? Find out what words you overuse and try to edit some of them out—those listed here can get you started.

17. Nominalizations

A nominalization is when you take a verb or adjective and turn it into noun, making the sentence wordier and even pretentious. This includes words like accuracy, intention, disagreement, slowness, analysis, collection, and suggestion. When possible, turn that noun back into its original verb or adjective form (like accurate, intend, disagree, slow, analyze, collect, and suggest).

What words are on your “words to avoid” list? We’d love to hear in the comments below!

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This article is a lifesaver! I only write for fun but since I like to post my little snippets and drafts, I want my small audience to stay engaged. I have this bookmarked and try to check every piece according to this guide, so it’s appreciated!

What about the word: “try”

We are trying to teach ….. Why not say “we teach….”

I definitely have a problem with sighing and nodding. My characters also seem to frown quite a lot! One thing that you mention is ‘down’ etc. I find when reading, that many writers overuse prepositions, generally. So often they aren’t needed. I have a bit of a thing about them.

I’m reviewing a manuscript and hunting down the word “the.” I’m finding many places where it isn’t necessary. I haven’t seen any articles published on this, but have recently heard from other writers that they too are cutting back their use of “the.” Has anyone else out there heard talks or read blogs about this?

I’ve been removing “the” and sometimes I have to put them back to make the grammar checker happy. My least favorite is dueling grammar checkers with opposing suggestions. This seems to happen a lot with commas and “is this one word or two” (time line vs timeline, minigun vs mini-gun, etc.)

I’ve never heard of that.

“Said” is WAY too overused, and there are so many synonyms and more descriptive words rather than “said”.

I agree. It gets boring, yet we are constantly told ‘use said’ as it’s not noticed by readers.

Great article! I have a list of words I tend to overuse. I do a Find search through my manuscript to get rid of them.

Thanks for the article, it will help me greatly. I recognize several weaknesses in my writing from the words to “avoid”. My principals are the to be +ING and the word that, it is very difficult for me to change my sentences construction.

Having difficulty refraining from using the word ‘since.’ Since X happened, (then) Y occurred. Multi-syllabic synonyms don’t get the job done as well.

Hello, I’m looking for a “style” guide to tell me if a word is now considered or IS rude, offensive, pejorative, belittling of a person, and/or just plain ignorant.

In The Searcher, Tana French repeatedly has characters say things with a grin. It is driving me nuts.

These are dull and colorless compared to concrete nouns, powerful verbs, and vivid adjectives. Good writers try to avoid these empty, weak words and replace them with strong words.

Enjoyed. Thanks.

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5 Over-Used Words and Phrases for Writers to Avoid

• by Susan Johnston
• April 28, 2024
• 21 Comments

Want to improve your writing? Avoid these five over-used words and phrases! These writing tips are from a successful writer who isn’t just my regular guest blogger – she’s a recent Top 10 Blogs for Writers winner. I’ve learned a lot from freelancer Susan Johnston – such as how to increase my blog readership , earn more money writing, and write great conclusions.

“Too often, writers rely on clichés or tired, over-used words instead of coming up with an original way to stay what they mean,” says Johnston. “Sure, most readers understand these phrases with little or no explanation, so it’s an easy way to get a point across. Sometimes it’s acceptable to use these words or phrases if the alternative would be too long-winded (or if you’re satirizing something). But too many worn-out words can sound stale and unoriginal. It’s a lazy shortcut, really.”

Here, she shares several over-used words and phrases for writers to avoid. For more ways to improve your writing, click on How to Avoid English Teachers’ Pet Peeves: Improve Your Writing by Eliminating Common Errors by Cheryl Miller Thurston. And, read on for Johnston’s writing tips…

I asked my Twitter followers to help me come up with a list of words and phrases to retire. Here’s what we came up with…

1. Very.  I’m very sick of this word. It doesn’t add meaning. In fact, it usually detracts from what you’re trying to say. I bet that if you took an article or blog post and crossed out every use of “very,” you’d never know they were missing. And the writing would be tighter, too.

2. Kind of.  “Very” uses hyperbole, and “kind of” suffers from the opposite problem: understatement. I found myself typing “kind of” and quickly added it to the list, because, well, it kind of weakens the point. Sometimes it makes sense for dialogue, though, especially if a character is insecure. But writers should avoid it, and use only in moderation.

3. It is what it is. @HOHWWriter and @savebythomas both nominated this phrase, and I think it’s the ultimate cop out! It doesn’t say what it is, so writers use this vague phrase in lots of different contexts. How about just saying (or even better, showing) what’s what?

4. Think outside the box. Another double nomination from @maggieleyes and @WriterFish. Usually when someone uses this term, they are not capable of coming up with a creative idea themselves. I don’t mind when someone riffs on this theme, as in “think outside the cube” or “think outside the bento box.” But unfortunately, when everyone starts using those phrases, they’ll feel hackneyed, too!

5. Just sayin.’ As @SoundCheckMama points out, this expression doesn’t actually say anything. Enough said. (Yes, I just used another cliché!)

What over-used words or phrases should writers avoid? Do you agree or disagree with this list?

For more writing tips, read 5 Commonly Misused Words and Phrases in Writing on The Urban Muse (which I, Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen, wrote!).

Susan Johnston is a Boston-based freelance writer and blogger who has covered business and lifestyle topics for The Boston Globe, The Christian Science Monitor, DailyCandy.com, Yahoo! HotJobs, and many other publications. Want to know more? Check out The Urban Muse or follow her on Twitter .

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21 thoughts on “5 Over-Used Words and Phrases for Writers to Avoid”

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• February 12, 2021

15 Most Overused Words in the English Language

• Translation

The average English speaker knows about 20,000 words, and no matter how chatty you are, it’s impossible to overuse words for the lack of knowledge. You could go for years without mentioning some of the words you know.

So why are there so many overused words in the English language?

Well, there are many reasons. For instance, crutch words .

Also called filler words, crutch words are usually meaningless sounds that people make when they are trying to put together their next statement. Words like uhm , like , and er are all filler words, and they are overused.

Substituting overused words with more captivating ones can add more color to your speech and writing.

But the point is not for you to completely avoid them. You should rather try to replace them with more interesting words.

Substituting overused words with more captivating ones adds more color to your speech and writing .

Here is a list of the 15 most overused words in the English language.

Why Do English Speakers Overuse Words?

People overuse and misuse simple words as well as big and outlandish words.

Simple words are used as crutches in speech and writing, while the more complex words come out when a speaker wants to appear smart or well-informed.

Here are some reasons why we fail to diversify our vocabulary:

Limited Social Interaction

Hanging out with the same group of friends, we tend to throw around similar words and phrases. It’s natural to incorporate the words you hear your friends use into your vocabulary.

Words like unique , incredible, interesting, and immersive are used to market products every day.

The fact that these words are so impactful puts them at risk of being misused.

Crutch Words

We also overuse filler words and phrases. Rather than relying on like  and er  to make your point, you should take the time to collect your thoughts and speak them all at once.

The quality of your content greatly improves when you use the correct term to describe an exact moment.

Why Avoid Overused Words?

Sure, they are common and easy to reach whenever you need to make a point; but overused words may cost you.

When translating content to English, you need to use words that correctly convey the author’s feelings and intentions.

They add little to no value

Take a look at these two statements:

“I finished my morning run, and then went to get some breakfast at the new coffee shop, and then went back home.”

“I finished my morning run, went to get some breakfast at the new coffee shop, and went back home.”

The second statement is more precise.

Like , then, just – such words fill up your page without adding any real value to the content.

You sound boring

Overused words make you sound boring and repetitive; avoid them! Even when you think you are intensifying your writing by adding words like ‘really’ and ‘very.’

Don’t put your readers to sleep.

The rise of the online marketing industry has increased the demand for catchy and action-oriented words.

When translating content to English , you need to use words that correctly convey the author’s feelings and intentions.

15 Most Overused Words (and Their Alternatives)

You need to write simply and concisely, and this means avoiding meaningless adjectives, modifiers, and intensifiers.

You can hear it in your head by just reading the word on a page.

‘Amazing’ is a common word, which makes sense because this word is versatile and applicable in several ways.

You can use amazing to describe actions, experiences, as well as emotions.

But just because you can doesn’t mean you should, at least not always.

Words to Use Instead of Amazing

• Great (for the less grand experiences)
• Astonishing

2. Interesting

This word is used so often that sometimes it gets difficult to understand what a person means when they say it.

Interesting is the automatic response people go for when they hear information they can’t quite comprehend.

It is also what people say when they are not really listening, therefore making it a crutch word.

Alternatives

3. literally.

You probably use this word all the time to add urgency (or exaggerate) a statement or an action.

The word is so overused that people don’t even bother to stick to the original meaning anymore.

“I am so hungry; I am literally dying!”

Because it is among the most overused and misused words out there, the intensity and depth that the word ‘literally’ holds are somehow fading.

Words to Use Instead

Nice can be used to describe how a person feels, how they’re dressed – all the way to what type of day a person is having.

‘Nice’ is usually the first word to form on people’s lips when they see something that catches their eye.

And this is for good reason too.

There aren’t too many choices that carry the same complementary value as the word ‘nice.’

Another word with a good amount of versatility is ‘hard.’ It is widely used because it can describe a physical activity, an object, or a mental or emotional process.

I work hard, I am having a hard day, it’s been a hard year – all these words sound generic and convey little to no meaning.

Just so you know, there is nothing wrong with using an overused word.

In fact, in some instances, commonly used words the most effective at getting through to your audience.

Change is one such word.

It is inspirational and speaks to something bigger than all of us. Change the world. You also change your attitude, and you also change your life.

7. Important

The problem with overused words is that over time, we become numb to them.

A word like ‘important’ can lose its meaning if used one too many times in a memo or an email.

After all, too much of something has never been good for anyone, right?

8. Actually

This word is supposed to signify facts.

“Actually, the sun rises from the East.”

However, because it is so overused, the word has come to signify a difference in opinions. Like so:

“I actually think we should go with the green pain instead.”

Alternatives to Use

Spilling coffee on yourself results in a bad morning. You get caught in ‘bad’ traffic, have a bad day, and the narrative goes on until you finally get back to the solace of your home.

People use the word bad to describe most negative situations, but other words can make a much bigger impact on your readers.

• Substandard

Just like the word bad, good is also a general term that is overused.

‘good work’ ‘have a good day’ ‘good returns’ – this word does not have any strong meaning.

We all know this crutch word, and you probably use it more than you should.

The original meaning of ‘like’ shows partiality towards a person or an object, but most people use it as a filler word.

This word is misused so much that sometimes, you can hear it as many as three times in a single sentence.

As a word of endearment:

As a filler word:

A word that ironically means ‘one of a kind’ has found its way into our daily vocabulary.

Unique is no longer a unique word to use.

Generic products are unique, mass-produced goods are also described as unique. This word carries a lot of weight and can get through to people – which is why it is so overused.

• Distinctive

13. Incredible

The more people use a word, the more ambiguous it becomes.

Incredible is a general term that people use in place of ‘good.’

• Unbelievable
• Inconceivable

14. Experience

This word is commonly used in the job setting.

I want a professional with experience.

What is your experience in this industry?

Here are other words you can use to convey the same meaning:

15. absolutely.

This word represents a final and definite conclusion and affirmation to a statement. Absolutely shows confidence that the listener has received the message and will follow through with conviction and certainty.

• Undoubtedly

How to Expand your Vocabulary

Crutch words, tired words, boring words – all different names that mean the same thing.

There are only so many times you can use the word ‘ amazing ’ or ‘ interesting .’

Imagine you were a food reviewer. Would you say ‘ this food is amazing ’ all the time? Of course not. A diverse vocabulary instantly makes you stand out, hence capturing the attention of your audience.

The best way to incporate new words into your vocabulary is to practise.

Here are multiple exercises you can use to expand your vocabulary:

• Read books, blogs , and anything else that might help you develop both your vocabulary and storytelling skills.
• Play word games like scrabble.
• Subscribe to websites that send a ‘word of the day.
• Another good way to expand your vocabulary is by using the dictionary and the thesaurus. Look for meaningful synonyms to the most commonly used words.

Whenever you learn a new word, use it in conversation, and eventually, it will become a regular in your speech. You can be a language specialist with a little bit of time and patience.

Use More Words

Strive to use some of the less common words in your vocabulary.

Whether you are writing or speaking, you should avoid overused words that make you sound boring and repetitive.

In audio marketing or video marketing , using more captivating words will make you stand out from the crowd, hence attracting more consumers to your business .

Remember, as an average English speaker, you have more than 20,000 words in your vocabulary – use them.

When translating content, look for professional and expert translators with a diverse vocabulary.

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Improve Story Paragraphs by Addressing Echoes and Overused Words

by Zoe M. McCarthy | Writing | 2 comments

A concise, detailed, step by step resource for all writers. — Jamie West, editor coordinator, Pelican Book Group

Learn more at the end of the post.

After I’ve performed my own edit of a scene, I use ProWritingAid’s Echoes and Overused reports for an added look. 

The Echoes option highlights exact words or phrases repeated in a paragraph or nearby paragraphs. Since many Echoes are not a problem, I look for the underlined words or phrases that pop out. I’m surprised I didn’t notice them on my personal edit.

Overused words are more often words such as: then/just, could, would, feel, believe/think, maybe, knew/know. Unlike Echoes, any form of the Overused words is underlined. This ProWritingAid report suggests how many uses of each Overused word to remove.

Improve Dialogue

People say sentences like, “I think you should do that.” We also think: Well, I thought it was a good idea. The ProWritingAid reports often tag  I think  and  I thought as Echoes or Overused. They are usually unnecessary.

Examples of common echoes and overused words in dialogue:

 “ I think  I was  just  scared he  would  dump me, and I  would   feel alone.  I need to feel better  about myself. And I  would  be able  to feel better  if I took  a class  on building  confidence .  I need to search online for  a class . I think that would help me in my relationships, don’t you? Then I could  just  get on with my life in  confidence .”

I ran this paragraph through ProWritingAid’s Echoes and Overused reports.

to feel better

would (I added this one.)

feel/feels/feeling/felt (suggested removing 2 of 3)

just/then (suggested removing 2 of 3)

believe/think (suggested removing 1 of 2)

“I was scared he’d dump me, and I’d feel alone. If I took a class on building confidence, I could learn techniques to have faith in myself. I’ll search online for a course. Don’t you think a workshop on self-assurance will help me in my relationships and in becoming a happier woman?”

Improve Narrative and Reflection

Editing narrative and reflection is a good time to click on repeated words and bring up your word-processing thesaurus. 

Example of echoes:

Grady   stepped   toward   the parking lot , shaking his head. Jill  kept  pace with him. Maybe it was better they  kept walking . If he gave the reporters a bite, they’d circle like sharks and follow him all the way to  the parking lot .

A blonde  stepped  in front of  Grady  and thrust a mic  toward  his face. “Was the crash pilot error?”

He kept walking with a slight limp. The reporters and cameramen followed. They weren’t going to leave him alone. And Grady’s determined gait might damage his stitches. Not good.

The ProWritingAid Overused report found no overused words. Here are the results from the Echoes from review. 

the parking lot

kept walking

(The report didn’t note  follow  and  followed  because they are not exact matches, but we could address them also.)

Better: (I’ll underline replacements.)

Grady  limped  toward the parking lot, shaking his head. Jill kept pace with him. Maybe it was better they  continued walking . If he gave the reporters a bite, they’d circle like sharks and  trail him all the way to  her Jeep .

A blonde stepped in front of Grady and thrust a mic  inches from  his face. “Was the crash pilot error?”

He  trod forward  with an uneven gait. The reporters and cameramen followed. They weren’t going to leave him alone. And Grady’s determined  stride  might damage his stitches. Not good.

So scan your dialogue, narrative, and reflection paragraphs, and search for the common overused words listed above and the repetition of exact words and phrases. Use a thesaurus to help you freshen your paragraphs.

What are other common overused words?

Zoe McCarthy’s book,  Tailor Your Fiction Manuscript in 30 Days , is a fresh and innovative refocusing of your novel or novella. Through a few simple—and fun—steps, Zoe helps writers take their not-ready-for-publication and/or rejected manuscripts to a spit-polish finish. Writing is hard work, yes, but it doesn’t have to be difficult.

—Eva Marie Everson, best-selling and award-winning author, conference director, president of Word Weavers International, Inc.

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Interesting, Zoe. I have ProWritingAid and had never noticed Echoes. Thanks.

Sally, I think Echoes is new.It does give another way of looking at my scenes.

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• Writing Tips

How Word Variation Could Improve Your Academic Writing (And 5 Handy Examples)

• 3-minute read
• 25th December 2015

While it’s important to use consistent terminology in academic writing , this applies primarily to technical terms and concepts central to your argument. When it comes to the rest of your paper, varying the language can make it much more engaging and easier to read .

What words should you vary? This depends very much on the individual, but the essence is to avoid frequent repetition of certain basic terms. This doesn’t mean short words like “the”, “a” or “and”, which everyone will use regularly in their writing, but it might include words like “interesting”, “because”, “including”, “said” and “important”.

Alternatives for these terms are presented below, but you might also want to try a thesaurus for other ideas. Just remember to check the meaning of words you find in a thesaurus before using them, as sometimes there can be subtle differences.

1.    Variations on ‘Interesting’

The word “interesting” is often used to introduce a point as worthy of attention (e.g., “It is interesting to note that…”). Ironically, overusing “interesting” is very uninteresting indeed, so you might want to try these instead:

• Noteworthy/notable (e.g., “One noteworthy claim…”)
• Compelling (e.g., “One theory seems particularly compelling…”)
• Fascinating (e.g., “The Ancient Greeks were a fascinating people”)

2.     Because

The word “because” is used when explaining the reasons behind something (e.g., “The results were this way because…”). As such, it’s often used in academic writing, so you may sometimes need to limit repetition:

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• Since (e.g., “Since the pilot experiment failed, we had to start again.”)
• Due to (e.g., “The failure was due to several oversights.”)
• As a result (e.g., “As a result of these omissions, the results are unreliable.”)

3.     Including/Includes

The term “including” is most commonly used to introduce examples of something just mentioned, including in this sentence you’re reading right now. See what we did there? It can also be used to describe something contained within a whole (e.g., “It will take a full week, including Sunday.”)

If you’re using “includes” a lot in a paper, you might want to consider these variations:

• Such as (e.g., “I collect tools, such as hammers and tongs.”)
• Like (e.g., “I eat fruit, like apples and pears.”)
• Incorporates (e.g., “The design incorporates many useful features.”)

4.     Said

The word “said” is most overused when quoting sources (e.g., “Costello said that ‘there’s nothing underhand that she won’t understand’”). Your options here include:

• Claimed (e.g., “Holland claimed…”)
• Argued (e.g., “Weller argued…”)
• Stated (e.g., “Suggs stated…”)

5.     Important

The term “important” is used to emphasize the significance or value of something, so overusing it can undermine its impact. Substitutes include:

• Significant (e.g., “The most significant finding…”)
• Vital (e.g., “It is vital to remember that…”)
• Crucial (e.g., “Addressing this problem is crucial in order to…”)

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Writing Lesson: Repeat Offenders-The 10 Most Overused Words in Fiction

July 2, 2012

Every writer has his own list of favorite words. You know what I’m talking about. They’re the ones you tend to rely on a little too heavily in your writing,without realizing it. Then your scene comes back from your critique partner all marked up in red , and   you realize you’ve been a little lazy in your writing. 

Here’s my personal list of my top 10 Most Overused Words, plus 1:

1. Expression – “She wore a ( insert adjective of choice ) expression on her face.” I don’t know about you, but I feel lazy when I resort to this. How about getting a little creative and showing rather than telling? Your readers will thank you for keeping them engaged. 

2. Eye (eyed, eyeing) – I need your help on this one. Does it bother you when a character’s eyes land on something, or follow someone across a room? Does it conjure up pictures of eyeballs literally popping out of their sockets, or is this an acceptable alternative to the oft-used “gaze”? Either way, don’t let the eyes have it to excess in your writing.  

3. Face – As in “he faced her, she turned to face him”. 

4. Feel/felt – Definitely passive. Not a problem every now and then, but a little goes a long way.

5. Gaze/gazed – Wouldn’t you think that with all the looking around we do, there would be more decent synonyms for it? 

6. Glanced – Same as the problem we have with #5, only quicker.

7. Pull – Until I started writing seriously, I had no idea how many things could be pulled. “She pulled her gaze…. He pulled the door….They pulled a fast one.” 

8. Regard/regarded – This is one that’s easy to overuse in your attempt to avoid “look” or “gaze”. “She regarded him warily.” Not a problem every now and then.

9. That -You will find, when you start paying attention to this word, that about half of these are probably not needed. Your writing will be cleaner after snipping some of your ‘thats’. 

10. Turned – Sometimes my characters do so much turning, it makes me downright dizzy.

11. (Bonus Word) Was – Passive and boring. It’s fine at times, but you would do well to tighten up your writing with a was-ectomy. 

Click here to check out ProWritingAid , a really nifty FREE tool that analyzes, among other things, overused words in your writing. I just discovered it, and considering my own reliance on this list of repeat offenders, I think I’m going to use it repeat edly. 

As a writer or a reader, what are your favorite overused words?

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July 2, 2012 at 8:51 pm

As both a writer and an avid reader, one of my pet peeves is when writers call people ‘thats’. As in “she was the one that wrote the book”. Sorry, people are not inanimate objects or animals. Human beings are “whos”, as in “she was the one who wrote the book”. This mistake is all too common and drives me up the proverbial wall. (So other than THAT, THAT’s all, folks!”)

July 3, 2012 at 7:58 am

Yes, Sarah. This is one I’ve struggled with lately. I’ve had that conversation-within-a-conversation (you know, where you stop mid-sentence, leaving the people around you hanging, while you ask yourself “or should that be ‘who’?”) more than once in recent days.

Here’s a question for you; in my WIP, I have a character ponder whether the mean girl is colder than the drink she’s holding. Should he ask “who is icier” or “which is icier”?

July 4, 2012 at 5:13 am

Guilty! Haha, but then again, we all are at some point or another, am I right?

July 4, 2012 at 1:42 pm

Oh yes. It’s impossible to avoid:)

July 13, 2012 at 12:14 am

His expression hardened as he turned and eyed her across the room. He felt his heart tug as she turned to face him and their gazes collided. She pulled her long blonde hair over one shoulder and then gave it a haughty flip. He turned back to the bar and regarded his drink. Which was icier? That girl, or the cubes in his glass?

Okay… I think I got one of everything in there just for your critiquing pleasure! 😀

Good post and oh so true.

July 13, 2012 at 7:41 am

Beautifully done!

January 30, 2013 at 1:48 am

Hi there, Chris, Product Manager for ProWritingAid here. Thanks for the mention. You’ll be glad to hear that we’ll be adding functionality to add your own overused words to our software soon. Great list btw; we’ll consider adding some of your other suggestions as standard.

[…] out Lesley’s blog for some other ideas to help you write […]

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Blogs / Writing Tips / Trope Meaning, Definition, and Examples

Write a Novel Readers Love

Trope meaning, definition, and examples.

Ah, tropes. They can be an author’s best friend or their worst nightmare, but learning how to use them effectively is essential if you want to be a top rate storyteller.

Why do I say this?

Because, as you’ll learn throughout this article, tropes act as a shortcut for a lot of the things we do in writing. Tropes can spark ideas for world-building, character creation, and some genre tropes even have the plot baked in.

I know. It’s mad, but tropes really can do all that and more.

If you know anything about Fictionary, you know story comes first around here, which is why learning about tropes is so important. Because they help you enrich your stories, and level up your storytelling skills.

Before we look at some examples of specific tropes, let’s discover what a trope actually is.

What Is a Trope?

Tropes definition.

According to Merriam-Webster, a trope is “a word or expression used in a figurative sense,” or “a common or overused theme or device.”

But what does that actually mean for my novel?

A solid question, and one I hope to answer by the end of this article.

What Is a Trope in Literature?

When writing novels, tropes exist as a kind of shorthand. They are common conventions (some would say cliches) authors use to help build the narrative, stir emotion, and add layers of familiarity for the reader.

Tropes are recurring themes, and easy to recognise story elements that help you build a framework for your story in record time.

Tropes can do all that?

They sure can, my writerly friend.

Not only that, but—as you’ll see in later sections—you can use tropes to convey complex ideas in simple ways. Also, if you can nail tropes that are common for your genre, then you become a genre expert.

How cool is that?

I know. Cool, right?

Now you know what a trope actually is, and how you can use them to tell stories readers love, let’s look at some real-world examples of tropes so you can apply them to your writing. 

Trope Examples

Note: These lists are not exhaustive, but will provide a good starting point for tropes around world-building, character creation, and genre (i.e., plot).

Word-building Tropes

World-building tropes are recurring themes or elements used to construct fictional universes. These can include specific settings, societal structures, and cultural norms. Some common world-building tropes include:

• Dystopian Society : A world characterized by oppressive government, environmental disaster, or other conditions leading to a degraded quality of life. Example: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.
• Medieval Fantasy : A setting that mimics the Middle Ages, often featuring castles, knights, and magical elements. Example: A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R.R. Martin.
• Post-Apocalyptic World : A setting following a major catastrophe that has drastically changed civilization. Example: The Road by Cormac McCarthy.
• Steampunk : A world where steam power is predominant, often blending Victorian-era aesthetics with futuristic technology. Example: The Difference Engine by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling.
• Cyberpunk : A high-tech, low-life future where advanced technology coexists with societal decay. Example: Neuromancer by William Gibson.
• Space Opera : A grand, large-scale science fiction narrative often involving space travel and epic battles. Example: Dune by Frank Herbert.
• Alternate History : A world where historical events have diverged from our timeline, leading to a different present or future. Example: The Man in the High Castle by Philip K. Dick.
• Urban Fantasy : A setting where magical elements exist within a contemporary urban environment. Example: The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher.
• Mythical Kingdom : A realm inspired by mythology and folklore, often featuring gods, heroes, and fantastical creatures. Example: Percy Jackson & the Olympians series by Rick Riordan.
• Parallel Universes : Worlds existing alongside our own, with characters moving between distinct realities. Example: His Dark Materials series by Philip Pullman.

These tropes help writers create immersive worlds that captivate readers, providing familiar frameworks that you can adapt in unique and innovative ways.

Character Tropes

Character tropes are archetypes or common personality traits used to define characters in a story. They help readers quickly understand and connect with the characters. Common character tropes include:

• The Chosen One : A character destined to save the world or achieve greatness. Example: Harry Potter from the Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling.
• The Mentor : A wise character who guides the protagonist. Example: Gandalf from The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien.
• The Anti-Hero : A protagonist who lacks traditional heroic qualities, often morally ambiguous. Example: Walter White from Breaking Bad .
• The Sidekick : A loyal companion who supports the main character. Example: Samwise Gamgee from The Lord of the Rings .
• The Damsel in Distress : A character who needs to be rescued, typically used to motivate the hero. Example: Princess Peach from the Super Mario series (Note: this trope is less common in modern literature, and is seen by some as cliche).
• The Reluctant Hero : A character who is hesitant to take on the hero’s role but rises to the occasion. Example: Frodo Baggins from The Lord of the Rings .
• The Femme Fatale : A seductive and mysterious woman who often brings trouble to the protagonist. Example: Catwoman from the Batman series.
• The Comic Relief : A character who provides humor in the story, often to ease tension. Example: Ron Weasley from the Harry Potter series.
• The Tragic Hero : A character with a fatal flaw that leads to their downfall. Example: Oedipus from Oedipus Rex by Sophocles.
• The Lovable Rogue : A charming and morally ambiguous character who often bends the rules. Example: Han Solo from the Star Wars series.

These tropes provide familiar frameworks you can adapt in unique and innovative ways, helping you create engaging and relatable characters.

Genre Tropes

Genre tropes are specific to the conventions of a particular genre, helping to define the expectations and characteristics of that genre. Some examples include:

Romance Tropes

• Enemies to Lovers : Characters who initially dislike each other but eventually fall in love. Example: Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.
• Love Triangle : A romantic situation involving three people, creating tension and conflict. Example: Bella, Edward, and Jacob in Twilight by Stephenie Meyer.

Horror Tropes

• The Final Girl : The last surviving woman who confronts the killer. Example: Laurie Strode in Halloween .
• Haunted House : A house occupied by ghosts or other supernatural beings. Example: The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson.

Science Fiction Tropes

• Artificial Intelligence : Robots or computers with human-like intelligence. Example: HAL 9000 in 2001: A Space Odyssey by Arthur C. Clarke.
• Time Travel : Characters moving backward or forward in time. Example: The Time Machine by H.G. Wells.

Fantasy Tropes

• Chosen One : A character destined to save the world or fulfill a great prophecy. Example: Harry Potter in Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling.
• Quest : A journey or mission undertaken by the protagonist to achieve a specific goal. Example: Frodo’s journey to destroy ‘The One Ring’ in The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien.

Mystery Tropes

• Whodunit : A story centered on solving a crime, typically a murder. Example: Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie.
• Locked-Room Mystery : A crime that appears impossible for someone to commit, with the scene being sealed off from the inside. Example: The Mystery of the Yellow Room by Gaston Leroux.

Thriller Tropes

• Conspiracy : Characters uncover a hidden and far-reaching plot. Example: The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown.
• Race Against Time : The protagonist must complete a crucial task before a deadline. Example: 24 (television series).

Historical Fiction Tropes

• Star-Crossed Lovers : Lovers whose relationship is doomed by external circumstances. Example: Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare.
• Epic Battle : Large-scale conflicts that play a crucial role in the story. Example: War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy.

Dystopian Tropes

• Oppressive Regime : A totalitarian government controlling every aspect of life. Example: 1984 by George Orwell.
• Rebellion : Characters rising against an oppressive system. Example: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.

Western Tropes

• Gunslinger : A skilled shooter and drifter often involved in duels. Example: The Dark Tower series by Stephen King.
• Frontier Justice : Characters taking the law into their own hands in a lawless environment. Example: True Grit by Charles Portis.

Comedy Tropes

• Mistaken Identity : Characters are mistaken for someone else, leading to humorous situations. Example: The Comedy of Errors by William Shakespeare.
• Fish Out of Water : You place your character in an unfamiliar situation, often leading to comedic misunderstandings. Example: The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams.

By understanding and using these tropes, authors can meet readers’ genre expectations while adding their own creative twists to the narrative.

Should You Use Tropes in Writing?

Using tropes in writing can be beneficial because they provide a familiar framework that can help in storytelling. Tropes allow writers to establish settings, characters, and plot dynamics that readers can easily understand and connect with.

However, relying too heavily on tropes can lead to predictable and clichéd narratives.

And finally, always remember that story comes first. Use tropes to help you:

• Create engaging characters
• Pen interesting plots
• Structure solid settings

A tool like Fictionary helps you turn your draft into an interesting story readers love. So, with the right tropes and a strong narrative foundation, your writing can truly shine.

The Common App Opens Today—Here’s How To Answer Every Prompt

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Writing the Personal Statement for the Common Application

Today, the Common Application opens for the 2024–25 application cycle. As the platform opens, officially signaling the start of the college admissions season, many students are starting the daunting process of crafting their personal statements. The personal statement is a crucial opportunity to showcase individuality, character, and intellectual depth. In only 650 words, students should seek to encapsulate their authentic voice and perspective through a compelling and creative narrative. The process requires thorough brainstorming, strategy, and editing in order to produce an essay that is distinct from those of thousands of other applicants vying for seats at top colleges.

As students choose a prompt and begin brainstorming essays, here are the key points to consider in order to create a stellar essay for each prompt:

1. The Meaningful Background Prompt

Prompt: Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

This prompt invites you to share an aspect of your identity or experience that is central to who you are. Start by thoughtfully considering aspects of your identity that are unique to you; then, try to think of a specific anecdote or experience that provides a portrait of those qualities. While detail and specificity are critical for all engaging essays, they are particularly important in this one, as you should show (rather than tell ) admissions committees the things that are quintessential to who you are.

Your essay should also have a takeaway—aside from just telling admissions officers what the background, identity, interest, or talent is, you should also focus on what you’ve learned from this piece of your identity, how it has developed over time, and how you will apply it in college and beyond.

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, 2. the overcoming obstacles prompt.

Prompt: The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

This prompt is an opportunity to demonstrate resilience and the capacity to learn from adversity—qualities that elite universities value highly. Begin by choosing a specific incident where you faced a significant challenge or failure—this could be an academic setback, a personal loss, or a time when you were out of your comfort zone. Students often fall into one of two common mistakes when tackling this question. First, many students rely on cliches and overused tropes. Keep in mind that admissions officers will likely read hundreds of essays recounting stories of students missing the game-winning goal or flunking a test in sophomore English. Try to select a story that only you can tell, and if you choose a topic you worry might be popular among other students, consider how you might recount it in a unique and unexpected way. On the other hand, some students fall into the opposite problem, sharing about a particularly personal, traumatic, or triggering experience that impacted them. Though it should convey personal insights, the personal statement is still a professional document, and you should not make your reader uncomfortable or unsettled by the information you share.

Finally, note that admissions officers are not primarily interested in the challenge itself, but in how you responded to the challenge. Focus on the steps you took to overcome the obstacle, what you learned about yourself in the process, and how this experience has shaped your future actions and mindset. Highlight any new skills, perspectives, or motivations that emerged from this experience, demonstrating your ability to grow and adapt in the face of adversity.

3. The Changed Perspective Prompt

Prompt: Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Top colleges seek to admit students who are willing to engage in critical thinking and who possess the intellectual courage to question norms or ideas. For this essay, consider beginning with an anecdote—starting the essay in media res can be an engaging way to catch the reader’s attention and quickly establish the stakes of your narrative. As you share your story, remember that the essay’s focus is to demonstrate your open-mindedness, your commitment to seeking the truth, and your willingness to engage deeply with complex issues. It also shows your ability to respect differing viewpoints while developing your own reasoned stance. As such, you should take the admissions committee through your process of growth and change step-by-step, clearly articulating how the experience impacted you and how your changed perspective will enhance their campus community should you enroll.

4. The Gratitude Prompt

Prompt: Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Like the two prior prompts, this prompt requires students to share a particular anecdote, and students should consider beginning with their narrative before zooming out to explore the broader theme of gratitude. Start by recounting a specific instance where someone did something for you that made you feel unexpectedly grateful. This could be a small act of kindness, a significant gesture, or a moment of support that made a lasting impression on you. Then, explore how this experience of gratitude has affected your actions or attitude. As you do so, be sure to avoid platitudes or vapid buzzwords—rather than expressing that the experience made you feel “good” or “appreciated” or the equivalent, share how it has affected your perspective or actions going forward. The best responses are those that illustrate actionable change rather than fuzzy feelings.

5. The Personal Growth Prompt

Prompt: Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

A student’s college years are all about growth and transformation, and this prompt invites students to demonstrate their capacity for self-reflection and teachability. Thus, while this prompt might invite you to describe a major event or accomplishment, what you really want to show is a transformative period and the resulting reflection. Don’t feel as though the accomplishment, event, or realization needs to be especially earth-shattering or ground-breaking—sometimes the small things can make an impression in a big way. Finally, if you do choose to write about an accomplishment, be sure that you are not bragging. The prompt is an opportunity to show self-awareness, rather than to tout your achievements.

6. The Captivating Concept Prompt

Prompt: Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Intellectual curiosity and authentic passion are distinguishing characteristics in the landscape of top college admissions. For this prompt, zoom in on a particular topic that genuinely fascinates you, whether it’s a specific academic subject, a philosophical idea, or a creative pursuit. Many students manufacture a response to this prompt based on what they assume will impress admissions officers—but if you aren’t truly interested in Kantian ethics, an admissions officer will be able to tell. However silly, mundane, quirky, or bizarre your “captivating concept” may be, if it’s true to you—write about it!

While your response should describe how a specific aspect of this topic captivates your interest and why it resonates with you on a deeper level, it should also demonstrate how you have taken the initiative to explore this topic in unique ways. Have you sought out books on the topic? Taken an online course to elevate your knowledge? Started a club to connect with others who share your interest? Developed a passion project that mobilized your interest in service of your community?

7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

If none of the above prompts allow you to effectively express yourself, remember that the Common App includes an open prompt, wherein you can write on a topic of your choice! This is an excellent opportunity to share a story that doesn’t fit neatly into the other prompts but is crucial to understanding who you are. If you choose to pursue this prompt, make sure your essay is well-structured and cohesive, with a clear theme or message that ties everything together.

The Common App essay is more than just a component of your application; it’s a chance to speak directly to admissions officers and present your authentic self. Taking the time to brainstorm and edit will allow you to submit an essay that showcases your unique voice and original perspective to admissions officers at top colleges.

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