Writing tip 27: Edit wordy phrases

Give every word you use a job to do. Don’t use words that aren’t essential to your meaning. Unnecessary words clutter your sentences and crowd out your meaning.

Examples

can’t
not
am not in a position to

twice
not
on two separate occasions

about
not
pertaining to

because
not
in light of the fact that

during
not
in the course of

Some phrases have no useful meaning at all. Omit these phrases altogether.

Examples

I will modify the contract before I sign it.
not
In terms of the contract, I will modify it before I sign it.

Six out of ten employees preferred a more traditional management style.
not
It is of interest to note that six out of ten employees preferred a more traditional management style.

Find out about our Writing workshops