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There are lots of ways to strengthen a sentence. Adding sharper details, changing the punctuation, reordering the structure… I like to go for the simple approach: modifying the verb.
Using common verbs lends the manuscript to sound a little bland. Use robust verbs to help the reader feel more like a participant in the scene.
Walked – ambled, sauntered, lumber, strolled, shuffled, staggered, etc.
Ran –jogged, skittered, hurried, dashed, galloped, loped, etc.
Cry – whimpered, sobbed, sniveled, bawled, wailed, blubbered, howled, etc.
Using the Edit>Find tool search the novel for the following words, and replace them with something stronger, or rewrite the sentence to omit the word.
Was/were- This is one of the weakest verbs at your disposal.
She was rather plump.
VS.
Her fully fleshed stomach and bust swayed each time she moved.
Seemed– This is a non-committal verb. It lets you sit on the fence without picking a side. I try to only use it when I need to avoid a POV violation.
He seemed old for his age.
VS.
He left no impression of innocence and irresponsibility characteristic of boys his age.
Began/Started– These are also non-committal verbs.
She started to cross the room.
VS.
She crossed the room. *
*Unless, she started to cross the room and then the floor falls out before she reaches the other side.
VS.
She crossed the room. *
*Unless, she started to cross the room and then the floor falls out before she reaches the other side.
Knew– The POV implies that the character already knows .
She knew he hated her.
VS.
He hated her.
She knew he hated her.
VS.
He hated her.
this is a great post! I always do a find for was and were while editing. They always sneak in
"Was" is my nemesis. :/
Awesome post!
Great post! Death to the evil was!
Someone gave me a list of NO-NO's (was, blah, blah, blah)… in return I've taken my list of no-no's and picked through my manuscript to allow myself more time to be creative!!!
Verbs can be so fun as long as you allow them to be!
Your blog is fabulous – I'm digging the background! I do hope you'll stop in and say hello! I love meeting new blog buddies!
Wonderful list. Search and replace is a brilliant technological achievement.
Thanks for the advice on these blasted things. Always in need of a fresh reminder!