Tighten your prose with stronger verbs

Strong writing depends not just on what you say, but how you say it. One of the easiest ways to elevate your writing is by tightening your prose with stronger verbs. This simple adjustment helps cut down on wordiness, clarifies meaning, and makes your sentences more dynamic.

What are strong verbs?

Strong verbs are action words that directly convey a clear and specific action. They don't rely on helping verbs (is, are, was) to express an idea, nor do they need additional words to clarify their meaning. Think of strong verbs as the powerhouse of a sentence, moving it forward with precision and energy.

Weak verbs, on the other hand, often require the support of adverbs or adjectives to make them meaningful, leading to bloated and clunky sentences. For example:

Weak: She is walking slowly to the door.

Strong: She trudges to the door.

Weak: She quickly grabbed her wallet.

Strong: She snatched her wallet.

Weak: The meeting was held by the team.

Strong: The team convened the meeting.

Notice how the stronger verbs make the sentences more active and focused. By eliminating unnecessary words and weak constructions, we get to the point more quickly and with greater impact.

Why stronger verbs matter

Clarity: A strong verb pinpoints exactly what is happening, removing ambiguity from your sentences. Readers don’t have to wade through extra words to understand the action.

Conciseness: By choosing stronger verbs, you eliminate unnecessary words. This helps you write more economically, which makes your prose leaner and more engaging.

Pace and rhythm: The rhythm of your writing improves when you cut down on excessive filler words and weak constructions. Strong verbs keep sentences snappy and rhythmic.

Engagement: Stronger verbs draw the reader in, making your writing more vivid and energetic. They create a sharper mental image, helping readers to see the action more clearly.

Tips for using stronger verbs

Often, the presence of an adverb indicates that your verb is too weak. Instead of saying “walked slowly,” use “sauntered,” “strolled,” or “crept.” Choose a verb that carries the full weight of the action. Strong verbs are specific and nuanced. Instead of relying on vague action words, opt for verbs that convey both the action and the manner in which it's performed.

Once you’ve finished a draft, go back and identify any instances where weak verbs and passive constructions might be lurking. While strong verbs can sharpen your writing, don’t overdo it. Every verb doesn’t need to be a showstopper. Sometimes, simple verbs work best to maintain flow and readability. The goal is balance—using strong verbs when they enhance meaning, not for the sake of it. 

By cutting weak verbs and choosing precise, dynamic action words, you’ll tighten your sentences, create more vivid imagery, and ultimately craft writing that’s clearer and more engaging. The next time you revise your work, pay attention to your verbs—your readers will thank you for it.