Words for Better Writing
Swap tired words for ones that say something.
Every one of these replaces a word you have used too often. They are not longer or fancier, they are more specific, which is what makes writing feel sharper.
18 words
concise
adjective
Expressing much in few words.
“a concise explanation”
coherent
adjective
Marked by an orderly, logical, and aesthetically consistent relation of parts.
“a coherent argument”
emphasis
noun
Special importance or significance.
“the red light gave the central figure increased emphasis”
restrained
adjective
Under restraint.
precise
adjective
Sharply exact or accurate or delimited.
“a precise mind”
repetitive
adjective
Characterized by repetition.
“repetitive movement”
clarity
noun
Free from obscurity and easy to understand; the comprehensibility of clear expression.
polished
adjective
Perfected or made shiny and smooth.
“his polished prose”
flowing
noun
The motion characteristic of fluids (liquids or gases).
deliberate
verb
Think about carefully; weigh.
“They considered the possibility of a strike”
economical
adjective
Of or relating to an economy, the system of production and management of material wealth.
“economic growth”
crisp
noun
A thin crisp slice of potato fried in deep fat.
awkward
adjective
Lacking grace or skill in manner or movement or performance.
“an awkward dancer”
balanced
adjective
Being in a state of proper equilibrium.
“the carefully balanced seesaw”
direct
verb
Command with authority.
“He directed the children to do their homework”
plain
adjective
Not elaborate or elaborated; simple.
“plain food”
sharp
adjective
Keenly and painfully felt; as if caused by a sharp edge or point.
“a sharp pain”
elegant
adjective
Refined and tasteful in appearance or behavior or style.
“elegant handwriting”