In a world filled with text messaging, tweets and emojis (smiley faces and their ilk), more people value getting straight to the point using as few words possible. In order to write (or speak) succinctly, The Daily Muse highlighted several words that you should eliminate:
1. Honestly: “People use ‘honestly’ to add emphasis,” the Muse article notes. “The problem is, the minute you tell your reader this particular statement is honest, you’ve implied the rest of your words were not.”
2. Always: This word has the potential to make you sound conceited or close-minded, and leave you open to criticism if what you say turns out to be inaccurate. “Always” is seldom true.
3. Irregardless: This means “regardless” – so use regardless instead.
4. Absolutely: It’s redundant to say “absolutely necessary.” Replace it with “essential.”
5. Very: “Very” magnifies a verb, adjective or another adverb. “It makes your statement less specific,” according to the Muse. “If you’re very happy? Be ecstatic. If you’re very sad, perhaps you’re melancholy or depressed. … ‘Very sad’ is a lazy way of making your point.”
6. Just: Omit it from your sentences because it tends to be a filler word that makes sentences sound weaker (An obvious exception: Use “just” if it’s being used as a synonym for “equitable” or “fair”.)
7. That: People love to write sentences with “that,” but try striking the word and you’ll find it’s “superfluous most of the time,” the Muse says. Also, avoid using “that” when referring to people. (e.g. “I have several clients that …” Instead: “I have several clients who …”)
Source: “15 Words You Need to Eliminate From Your Vocabulary to Sound Smarter,” The Daily Muse (2015)
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