Writing 
learly
How-To Section
Back to Basics!
Stamping Out Unnecessary Words and Phrases
Why use a big word when a little word will do? Why use a wordy phrase when you can say it in a simpler way?
Take a look at some of these simple word re-writes:
Back
to Basics!
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Formal: |
Basic: |
| accomplish | do |
| accordingly | so |
| utilize | use |
| finalize | complete |
| necessitate | require |
| impact | effect |
| facilitate | enable or allow |
| feedback | answer or suggestion |
| implement | begin or start |
| consequently | so |
| designate | name or choose |
| discontinue | stop |
| evidenced | showed |
| impacted | affected or changed |
Here are some phrases that tend to be overused. Why not just "cut to the chase" with a simple word?
Back to Basics!
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Formal: |
Basic: |
| make a study of | study |
| arrive at an approximation | estimate |
| take into consideration | consider |
| provide clarification of | clarify |
| have a particular preference for | prefer |
| conduct an investigation of | investigate |
| was the recipient of | received |
| in view of the fact that | since |
with regard to |
about or regarding |
| for the purpose of | to or for |
| in as much as | since |
| in order to | to |
| in accordance with | by or following |
| in the event that | if |
| in terms of | in |
| in the near future | soon |
| until such time as | when |
| undertake an analysis | analyze |
| If you'd like to see some more lists or print some out and post, take a look at more charts. After you have looked these over or printed what you want, come back here using the "Back to Class Page" button on any of the pages to get back to this page. |
Ready to try some on your own? Click on each section below.
Simple Words Practice |
Simple Phrases Practice |
When you have completed both practice activities, go on to the next section by clicking on continue below.
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