Reduce wordy verbs

Try to keep the action of a sentence clear by using concise, direct verbs.

Words to use

Here’s how to revise some common wordy verb phrases:

Instead of . . .

• is aware of
• has knowledge of

Use . . .

• knows

Instead of . . .

• is taking

Use . . .

• takes

Instead of . . .

• are indications of

Use . . .

• indicates

Instead of . . .

• are suggestive of

Use . . .

• suggest