Writing tool #2 use strong verbs

As you hone your ferocious self-editing skills , train yourself to exploit opportunities to replace a weak verb for a strong one. At the end of this post I suggest a list of vivid verbs you can experiment with to replace tired ones. Want to download a copy of this strong verbs list to reference whenever you write? Click here.

What constitutes a tired verb? Am I saying these should never appear in your writing? Of course not. But when a sentence lies limp, you can bet it contains at least one of these. Determining when a state-of-being verb is the culprit creates a problem—and finding a better, more powerful verb to replace it— is what makes us writers. Resist the urge to consult a thesaurus for the most exotic verb you can find.

I consult such references only for the normal word that carries power but refuses to come to mind. I would suggest even that you consult my list of powerful verbs only after you have exhaust ed all efforts to come up with one on your own. You want Make your prose to be your own creation, not yours plus Roget or Webster or Jenkins.

The fox ran quickly dashed through the forest. He secretly listened eavesdropped while they discussed their plans. Here's a FREE copy of my step guide to writing a novel. Just tell me where to send it:.

Share 2K. Pin I sure have. Powerful: The man strode along the platform. They must be ready for change, willing to learn and able to think critically. Elephango is designed to create lifelong learners who are ready for that rapidly changing future. Lesson ID: Sally's affection for her dog is great. Lesson Plan - Get It! Use a thesaurus thesaurus.

Write down four synonyms, which you find most interesting, on a piece of paper. Draw a small symbol or character that you think portrays each word. For example, you might draw a man flexing his muscle to symbolize the word strong. Resources and Extras. Download file. Report issue. Suggested Lessons. Relative Pronouns - Who or Whom? Reading Intermediate Do You Agree or Disagree?

Elephango's Philosophy We help prepare learners for a future that cannot yet be defined.