Minimize Modifiers

Overuse of modifiers can weaken your writing. Modifiers are words that add extra explanation. Adverbs modify verbs and adjectives modify nouns. It is tempting to add a modifier when you feel the noun or verb is not powerful or explicit enough by itself. In other words, it needs a helper word to get the meaning across. However, modifiers can actually detract from the power and clarity of language, especially when they're overused. It is much better to work with the original noun or verb and see if you can find a more effective substitute, rather than simply tacking a modifier onto a weak noun or verb. For instance, instead of saying "she walked quickly," say "she hustled." This eliminates the weak verb (walked) and substitutes it with a strong, explicit verb (hustled). It also eliminates the need for the modifier (quickly). Instead of saying "it was a heavy rainstorm," say "it was a downpour." This eliminates the weak noun (rainstorm) and substitutes it with a strong, explicit noun (downpour). It also eliminates the need for the modifier (heavy). Bogging your writing down with unnecessary modifiers will complicate and weaken your writing. Find the power in your writing by crafting clear, concise nouns and verbs that convey your meaning without any assistance from helper words. Readers will find your prose lean and likeable.