With words...less is more!
Compiled by:
IANR News and Publishing Communications and Information Technology
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
| Simple words are best: | Eliminate excess: |
| ameliorate = improve | a consequence of = because |
| approximately = about | adjacent to = near, adjoining |
| beneficial = helpful, good | adverse weather conditions = bad weather |
| commence = begin, start | arrive at a decision = decide |
| concept = idea, notion | ascertain the truth = verify |
| deactivate = close, shut off | at the present time = now |
| deficiency = shortage, lack | bring to a conclusion = end, finish, complete |
| dialoging = talking, visiting, discussing | close proximity = near |
| endeavor = try, attempt | conclusive evidence = prove, find |
| equivalent to = equal to, same as | conduct a poll = poll |
| finalize = end, complete | consensus of opinion - agree |
| interact with = meet, visit, talk with | disposed of on the market = sold |
| methodology = method | due to the fact that = because |
| objective = aim, goal | give cosideration to = consider |
| oftentimes = often | held a meeting = met |
| prior to = before | hold a meeting = meet |
| proliferate = spread, increase | in regard to = regarding |
| purchase = buy | in order to = to |
| remainder = rest, what's left | keep in mind = remember |
| remuneration = pay | make plans for = plan |
| replicate = repeat | make an appearance = appear, show up |
| utilize = use | meeting will be held = meeting will be |
| not in favor of = oppose | |
| From the redundancy department: | not yet known = unknown |
| close proximity | reach an agreement = agree |
| end result | residential dwellings = houses, homes |
| future plans | so as to allow = to allow, allow |
| general public | substantial number = many, a lot |
| mutual agreement | take into consideration = consider |
| new discovery | with the exception of = except for, except |
| new record | |
| old adage | |
| very unique |
References
- Calvert, Patricia, ed., The Communicators Handbook: Tips and Techniques. Agricultural Communicators in Education. Gainesville, Fla., Maupin House, 1990.
- Cappon, Rene J, The Word: An Associated Press Guide to Good News Writing, New York, The Associated Press. 1982.
