As an editor, you likely revel in making written content flow. You might find it crazily satisfying to turn a jumble of ideas into an organized, readable flow of thought. Sometimes, you need to untangle run-on sentences or unclear notions.
Then, there are verbal deadwood sentences that go on for too long. Verbal deadwood happens when a simple idea is expressed in a wordy way.
For example: The reason why John is like Paul is because they both like the rain.
Which could be simplified to: John and Paul both like the rain.
But what if we told you there’s a writing technique that combats verbal deadwood effectively? In addition, it helps us writers fashion snappier, clearer sentences that make reading easier. It turns vague phrases into bold statements.
That technique is eliminating “to be” verbs! So, what are they? How can we avoid “to be” verbs?
What are “to be” verbs?
These are verbs that define an action or a state of being. They can be attached to other verbs or adjectives. If we’re being technical, they are variations on the words “to be.”
“To be” verbs include:
- is
- am
- are
- was
- were
- be
- being
- been
It’s impossible to eliminate these verbs completely. However, using them too much can make your writing sound passive and lose its punch. It’s also a sign you’ve got wordy sentences that need trimming. But if you cut back on “to be” verbs, your writing becomes snappier and more engaging. Your readers will thank you for it!
What’s wrong with them?
Before we hop into how to reduce these verbs in our writing, let’s have a closer look at why we want to avoid them.
- They imply a level of permanence. Because “to be” verbs indicate a state of being, phrases that use these verbs may end up indicating the existence of a lasting condition. For example, “I am cold” – but I’m not always going to be cold.
- They suggest an absolute truth. Simple, plain phrases using “to be” verbs signify a fact generally true for all. For example, “Saxophones are annoying” – but this is an opinion and not true for all.
- They lack specificity. “To be” verbs are not the words to use if you want to make a point. “Be polite,” a general statement, can be communicated much more clearly as “Don’t talk with your mouth full.”
- They are vague. If you’re going for clarity, use verbs with vim and vivacity, that have impact and draw out feeling. “The hotel is great” could become “The hotel has a homey feel, smells wonderful, and looks gorgeous.” Sort of like what you’d prefer to read on a review page.
- They could be confusing. Often, the subject isn’t clear in sentences like “It’s wonderful of you to come.” But that’s the English language.
7 Techniques to Ditch “To Be” Verbs
Here are some quick and effective techniques all writers can use to avoid “to be” verbs and spice up their writing voice!
1. Know your enemy: Identify “to be” verbs.
The first step is identifying the different forms of the verb “to be.” You can’t avoid something you’re not familiar with.
Here’s your hit list: is, am, are, was, were, be, being, and been.
They can blend into your sentences and weaken your writing. Next time you review, note all the instances in which these verbs appear in your writing. Highlight or underline them as you go to see how often you’re relying on them.
Remember, not all “to be” verbs need to go. Some are necessary for clear communication. The key is knowing where they are essential and whether they are just taking up space.
2. Use the active voice.
These verbs often show up when writers employ the passive rather than the active voice. While the passive voice has its place in certain types of writing, an active voice creates more engaging, direct, and concise content.
Let’s break it down:
Passive: The paper was written by Jane.
Active: Jane wrote the paper.
In the active version, Jane takes center stage as the doer of the action. It’s shorter, clearer, and packs more punch.
But why does this matter? The active voice identifies the subject as the doer of the action. It also requires fewer words, so your writing is more efficient. As a result, active sentences feel more involving to the readers.
However, don’t be so quick to dismiss the passive voice. It’s also ideal when you want to emphasize the recipient of the action; the doer of the action is unknown or unimportant, and it’s also helpful in scientific writing when the focus is on the process and not the researcher.
3. Replace “to be” verbs with more specific verbs.
It’s funny how “to be” verbs can easily slip in under our noses! We can exercise our vocabulary as we find ways to replace them with more impactful verbs.
Before: This house is beautiful!
After: This house looks beautiful!
See the difference? It’s subtle but important. The verb “looks” gives us a more vivid and sensory experience. It invites the reader to visualize the house rather than just accepting a statement of fact.
4. Restructure weak sentences.
There’s not always a perfect punchy verb that can replace a “to be” verb. But there are ways to rework a sentence to use stronger verbs. Some of these are converting adjectives to verbs, using more descriptive language, and even combining sentences.
A. Convert to Action
Where possible, convert adjectives or nouns into their verb form to shorten the sentence and make it clearer.
Before: Data integration can be disruptive to an organization’s regular operations.
After: Data integration can disrupt an organization’s regular operations.
Before: The movie was chilling.
After: The movie chilled me to my core.
Before: Their figures of speech are intriguing to me.
After: Their figures of speech intrigue me.
Notice how the “after” versions “after” versions feel more immediate and impactful?
B. Use Descriptive Language
Instead of relying on simple statements, use vivid, descriptive language to paint a picture for your reader. It transforms your writing from telling to showing.
Before: I’m delighted!
After: I love the sights and sounds of the city at night!
The second version doesn’t just tell the reader about an emotion; it shows why that emotion exists, creating a more immersive experience.
C. Combine Sentences
Merging short sentences can eliminate redundant “to be” verbs” and create a more flowing, efficient structure. It is particularly useful especially when dealing with sentences that begin with “there is” and “it was”.
Before: The method was effective. It was also fun.
After: The method proved both fun and effective.
Combining these sentences eliminated the “to be” verb and created a more cohesive statement.
5. Avoid beginning sentences with “there is,” “there are,” “it is,” and so forth.
This is one of the hardest techniques to follow! As you can see, the previous sentence starts with “This is!” While these constructions can be a hard habit to avoid, removing them can strengthen your writing.
Let’s rewrite that first sentence:
Before: This is one of the hardest techniques to follow!
After: This technique requires more effort to follow!
Sentences that begin with these phrases bury the true subject and action. However, restructuring your sentences can bring the core message to the forefront and make your writing more direct and engaging.
6. Use other verb forms of the same word.
Avoid using “to be” verbs by changing the form of the main verb. Generally, “to be” verbs frequently pair with verbs ending with “-ing.” Overusing this can make your writing static.
Before: She is writing every night.
After: She writes every night.
It’s a small change but it can make a big difference in your writing’s overall flow and impact.
7. Use modal verbs to switch it up.
These verbs (can, may, might, could, should, would, will, and must) are helper verbs that usually link with another main verb that holds the true action. It’s often used when discussing possibilities, obligations, or future actions.
Before: You are going to need to make the best decision for your organization.
After: You must make the best decision for your organization.
Before: I am going to visit tonight.
After: I may visit tonight.
Using them adds more nuance. The “must” implies urgency or importance, while “may” suggests possibility or permission.
Lastly, don’t forget to go over your writing a few more times to identify and edit any remaining “to be” verbs!
LET YOUR WRITING PACK A PUNCH WITH ALLIED INSIGHT!
At Allied Insight, we craft content that sends a clear message, addresses common questions succinctly, and expands readers’ awareness in your particular tone of voice. Contact us today and allow us to populate your website with meaningful and impactful content!
