Choose your words carefully!

Words that are familiar to your readers are easier to read and to remember. Whenever possible, use simple, familiar words instead of formal or difficult language. Avoid stock phrases and padded expressions. The list below gives some examples of how you can simplify your writing, but remember that these words aren’t the only ones to avoid. Add your own “pet peeves”!

Avoid Use
accompany go with
accomplish do
advise tell
adequate number enough
afford an opportunity let, allow
anticipate expect
approximately about
assist help
attached herewith is here is
at the present time now
commence start
components parts
conclude end, finish
concur agree
consequently as a result, so
co-operate help
critically evaluated evaluated
demonstrate show
endeavour try
exhibit show
facilitate help
failed to didn't
forward send
has the capability can, is able
identical same
implement begin, start
indicate show
initial first
institute start, begin