Substitute 'damn' every time you're inclined to write 'very'; your editor will delete it and the writing will be just as it should be.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Avoid intensifiers like 'very' to keep writing concise and strong.
- In plain terms
- Delete words like 'very' to improve writing style.
- What can you take from it?
- Strong verbs are better than weak modifiers.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you edit for conciseness?
- What makes writing stronger?
Another view
Sometimes emphasis requires intensifiers.
More from Mark Twain
Sometimes I wonder whether the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it.
Permalink to quote #183 I admire the serene assurance of those who have religious faith. It is wonderful to observe the calm confidence of a Christian with four aces.
Permalink to quote #185 Only presidents, editors and people with tapeworms have the right to use the editorial 'we'.
Permalink to quote #182
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