In composing, as a general rule, run your pen through every other word you have written; you have no idea what vigor it will give your style.
(Sydney Smith)
We continue our campaign to cut the clutter by honoring ten good small words. Unfortunately, these words are so common that some writers try to avoid their company, favoring longer expressions that mean the same thing. Shorter isn't always better--but often it is.
- About
is a quicker way of saying as regards, concerning the matter of, in connection with, in respect to, pertaining to, and with regard to. - After
beats subsequent to. - Because
is a few syllables shorter than based on the fact that, due to the fact that, for the reason that, in view of the fact that, on the grounds that, and owing to the fact that. - Can
is just as capable as have the capability to. - During
occurs during the course of and during the time that. - If
is more efficient than in the event that and if conditions are such that. - Now
is the same time as at the present point, at the present time, and at this point in time. - To
is more direct than in order to and so as to be able to. - Until
doesn't have to wait for until such time as. - With
usually does the job of through the use of and together with.
