Phrases That Make Your Writing Sound Robotic (and What to Write Instead)

Padding openers

Phrases like 'In today's fast-paced world' or 'It is important to note that' say nothing. Delete them and start with the actual point.

Stiff: It is important to note that the deadline has changed. Plain: The deadline has changed.

Show-off verbs

'Delve into', 'leverage', 'utilize' and 'facilitate' almost always have a plainer twin.

delve into → look at leverage → use utilize → use facilitate → help

Transition words on every sentence

Furthermore, moreover and additionally at the start of sentence after sentence make writing read like a checklist. If the order is already clear, the connecting word is doing nothing. Remove it.

Wordy phrases

in order to → to due to the fact that → because at this point in time → now a wide range of → many

Empty enthusiasm

'I hope this email finds you well' and 'I am thrilled to announce' are so common they have lost meaning. Say something specific instead, or just start.

Even rhythm

Machine-like text often has every sentence at the same length and shape. Mix short and long. A short sentence after a longer one lands harder.

A quick test

Read your text out loud. If you would not say a phrase to a friend across a table, consider a simpler version. Keep the meaning, and let the voice stay yours.