The surest way to improve writing is to write strong verbs. But what are they?
- verbs which show specific actions
- verbs with one unambiguous meaning
- verbs of Anglo-Saxon origin
- verbs of one or two syllables
- verbs stated in the active voice
The surest way to weaken writing is to write weak verbs. What are they?
- linking verbs, especially forms of the verb “to be”
- verbs with multiple meanings
- verbs with general, nonspecific meanings
- three-, four-, and five-syllable verbs of Latin origin
- verbs stated in the passive voice
Take the quiz to see if you can spot the strong verb.
1a. The Senator waited for the election returns.
1b. The Senator sweated out the election returns.
1c. The Senator listened for the election returns.
2a. Grandma looked peaceful sleeping in her rocker.
2b. Grandma slept in her rocker.
2c. Grandma giggled while sleeping in her rocker.
3a. The toddler squealed while opening his gift.
3b. The toddler was excited while opening his gift.
3c. The toddler cried out while opening his gift.
4a. The coffee burned my tongue.
4b. The coffee scalded my tongue.
4c. The coffee hurt my tongue.
5a. I was startled when the cat appeared.
5b. I was surprised when the cat appeared.
5c. I leapt when the cat appeared.
Answers:
1b. “Sweated out” is more specific.
2c. “Giggled” is an action.
3c. “Squealed” is more specific.
4b. “Scalded is more specific.
5c. “Leapt” is an active voice verb.
English Writing Teacher 