2. Remove the following words and phrases from
your vocabulary in your business writing
3. just
Reason: a filler word; it does not add value to
your sentence
Result: a tighter, more direct sentence
4. really ~ very ~ a lot
Reason: used for verbal emphasis; these
words do not translate well into written text
Result: a stronger message
“The rock is really hard.” vs. “The rock is
hard.”
5. perhaps ~ maybe
sort of ~ kind of
Reason: communicates uncertainty and
vagueness
Result: a clear and explicit message
6. quite
Reason: sometimes it adds meaning and
sometimes adds fluff
Hint: Know the difference and when in
doubt, discard
8. literally
Reason: overused and usually fluff
Hint: Use to clarify meaning, to explain that
you are not joking when it is perceived that
you are
9. stuff ~ things ~ got
Reason: informal and generic
Result: a clarified sentence when replaced
with a more descriptive word
10. you
Reason: implies that you are writing to AND
about the reader; renders statement
otherwise false
Hint: Do not use when making general
statements
12. I think ~ I believe
Reason: an opinion
Result: the message is straightforward
13. as
Reason: implies you can do two things at
once
Result: clarifies sentence when replaced with
proper word
“Take a drink as you lie down.” vs. “Take a drink,
then lie down.”
14. like
Reason: if it is LIKE something, it is NOT that
thing; makes writing tedious
"Using these words is like baking with
spoiled milk.”
Hint: Give accurate descriptions and use
correct verbs to reduce the need to use it
15. used to
Reason: fewer words is always better
Hint: Replace used to with a past tense verb
“She used to write fiction.” vs. “She wrote fiction.”
16. To learn more about McKinney & Associates, visit www.mckpr.com
McKinney & Associates was founded in 1990 with a commitment to
social justice that has prevailed for nearly 25 years. From the beginning,
McKinney has passionately and skillfully practiced public relations with a
conscience for local, national and international organizations.