Words Better Off DEAD Than Said

Words Better Off Dead Than Said

“Do not write like you talk.”

I wish I had a dime for every time I’ve said those words over the years to my English students. If I did, I would no doubt be laying on a beach somewhere sipping a fruity drink with a little umbrella perched in it.

Since the lecture was met with mild interest and ultimately ignored, I gave up “telling” them to avoid these words when writing a formal paper, and instead, resorted to the ultimate teacher weapon - “the handout.” I discovered that by calling them “Words Better Off Dead Than Said,” my students actually paid attention.

These words need no explanation. They are like weeds in a garden, and they often appear in our writing and must be weeded out. I am always adding words to the list, so I appreciate suggestions.:)

Words Better Off Dead Than Said

VERY or any variation such as VERY MUCH, VERY SICK, VERY HAPPY…

A LOT

GET

GOT

GREAT

I MEAN

KIND OF

LIKE

NICE

OKAY

REALLY

SORTA or SORT OF

STUFF

THING

YOU KNOW