Better Left Unsaid
Filler words are the words we use to indicate a pause. They may also be used to emphasize a point; however, they often weaken writing and can distract the reader. Examples of filler words are: just, basically, really, very, even, and maybe. What causes them to have a negative effect?
Strong writing is clear and concise. Words that can be removed without changing the meaning of a sentence can be monotonous, slow down the pace, and lessen the reader's focus. Unnecessary words impact a story's credibility.
The following is an example of the importance of a single word. During one of the therapy groups I was leading, the subject of peer pressure came up. We role-played how to be direct when telling someone we do not want to do something. The statement, "I don't think I want to have another drink." sounds weak in comparison to, "I don't want to have another drink." There's only one word that differentiates these two responses. Leaving out the word "think" drastically changes the tone.
A writer must be aware of the tenor of their work. Wordy, ambiguous scripts detract from the story. Removing filler words creates an opportunity for stronger writing.
Here's two tricks for cutting back on fillers. 1) If the sentence has the same meaning without the word, remove it. 2) If a word is being used to emphasize another word, remove it or remove it and replace the other word with a more dynamic one. For example; "It's really good to edit your work." Can be changed to, "It's important to edit your work."
In a casual conversation adding a filler, like in the sentiment, "I'm 'very' happy for you," may sound lovely. Using them throughout a 200+ page novel, diminishes the intended emphases. It's interesting that in the case of writing, using fewer words will often have a greater impact.
Strong writing is clear and concise. Words that can be removed without changing the meaning of a sentence can be monotonous, slow down the pace, and lessen the reader's focus. Unnecessary words impact a story's credibility.
The following is an example of the importance of a single word. During one of the therapy groups I was leading, the subject of peer pressure came up. We role-played how to be direct when telling someone we do not want to do something. The statement, "I don't think I want to have another drink." sounds weak in comparison to, "I don't want to have another drink." There's only one word that differentiates these two responses. Leaving out the word "think" drastically changes the tone.
A writer must be aware of the tenor of their work. Wordy, ambiguous scripts detract from the story. Removing filler words creates an opportunity for stronger writing.
Here's two tricks for cutting back on fillers. 1) If the sentence has the same meaning without the word, remove it. 2) If a word is being used to emphasize another word, remove it or remove it and replace the other word with a more dynamic one. For example; "It's really good to edit your work." Can be changed to, "It's important to edit your work."
In a casual conversation adding a filler, like in the sentiment, "I'm 'very' happy for you," may sound lovely. Using them throughout a 200+ page novel, diminishes the intended emphases. It's interesting that in the case of writing, using fewer words will often have a greater impact.
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