Precision and concision
Say more with fewer words: cut redundancy, replace weak verbs and vague nouns, and choose precise vocabulary.
In this lesson you will
- Cut redundancy and wordy phrases
- Use strong verbs instead of verb + noun padding
- Replace vague language with precise terms
Learn
Redundancy: past history, final outcome, completely unanimous, advance planning, each and every → history, outcome, unanimous, planning, every.
Wordy phrases: due to the fact that → because; in order to → to; at this point in time → now; in the event that → if; has the ability to → can; a large number of → many.
Weak verb + noun: make a decision → decide; carry out an investigation → investigate; give consideration to → consider; is in agreement → agrees. (Keep noun forms when academic cohesion needs them.)
Precision: things, stuff, issues, aspects, good, bad, big → specific terms: delays, costs, reliable, harmful, substantial.
Examples
- Wordy: Due to the fact that the train was late, we made the decision to take a taxi.
- Concise: Because the train was late, we decided to take a taxi.
- Vague: There are some issues with the plan. → Precise: The plan underestimates costs and ignores staffing.
Vocabulary
redundancy
unnecessary repetition
concise
brief and clear
wordy
using too many words
padding
unnecessary words
precise
exact
Practice
Concise version of “in order to”:
Speaking
Explain a complicated idea from your field or studies in exactly five short, precise sentences.
Writing
Edit this 90-word paragraph to under 55 words without losing meaning: “Due to the fact that there are a large number of students who have the ability to study online, the university made the decision to carry out an investigation into the possibility of offering each and every course online at this point in time. The final outcome of this investigation will be given consideration by the board in the event that funding is available.” Then write one paragraph of your own (80–100 words) in the same concise style.
Lesson quiz
“Past history” is…
Review
Key points
- Cut redundancy.
- Replace wordy phrases.
- Strong verbs, not padding.
- Precise, not vague.
What you learned
- ✓ I write concisely.
- ✓ I choose precise words.
- ✓ I edit out padding.