Thursday, August 18, 2011

Redundant Words

Redundant words: We've all heard it before, but how do we catch those pesky little add ons? When taken away they are not missed. They hang in space, sit on a page of a manuscript without reason. They don’t add to your work, they take from your work. The words, just, very, and that are redundant words-lame descriptors.

In most cases these words can be omitted and not change the meaning of a sentence. But if you want to add impact, avoid very, just, and that. Find a verb better than ‘very important’. You could say critical, vital, grave, or serious. It depends what you are referring to. With the words just or that, they too can be omitted and not change the meaning of a sentence.

At times keeping some of these words will help the sentence flow smoothly, but knowing which words slow your writing is a great step in creating flow.


I think I've finally got that. lol........:)
Okay, off to write, and then coffee with a friend.

I'll be the first to pop in and let you know of any news. I've sent out my universal prayers. lol... I've got quite a few manuscripts out there now, so as I said it's up to the universe. Wish me luck. :)

Be good, and happy writing and reading. :)

10 comments:

Tarnya said...

Hi Suzanne
Love hearing more about writing tips. I used some of those words, and took a look at my writing. I deleted at least twenty just's. I'm still going. Thanks for posting this.

Tarnya. x

Sally Clements said...

I find I have to take out 'that' a lot, Suzanne, especially if I'm subbing to US publishers. And then I usually have to add about half of them back in to sub to UK publishers! Crazy.
I had a sentence in one book where the character says:
"That's that, then." I just left it!

Tami Winbush said...

You should make an ebook with tips for editing! Sell it on Amazon or give to folks who sign up for your newsletter, etc. I know I'd buy one!

Suzanne Brandyn Author said...

Hi Sally,
I think using when using those types of words in dialogue they can stay. It is what your character says. ex: 'Why can't I do that. Well, that doesn't make any sense.' In this instance deleting them would make it very hard to understand. Using our judgement is the best way. Just being aware of these types of words can be a tremondous help. :)

Suzanne Brandyn Author said...

I might do that Tami. It's a brilliant idea. I have written down so many tips. I'd use it too. It would be compact and helpful. :)

Anonymous said...

Love your tips Suzanne. Although not a writer I can see they would be valuable.

Shirley.

Angelina Rain said...

Great post. As much as I try to avoid those words, they still sneak up into my writing.

Good luck on all the ms's you have out there, hoping for a few contracts to come your way.

Suzanne Brandyn Author said...

Hi Angelina

Thank you. I have all fingers crossed. I've done my best, not only with romance manuscripts but my thrillers as well. I hope the universe is listening. :)

Cathryn Hein said...

Good luck with all your subs, Suz. I have my fingers crossed for you!

Suzanne Brandyn Author said...

Hi Cath,
Thank you. Something has gotta give. lol :)