15 Words to Eliminate from Your Nonfiction Writing
Strong nonfiction writing is clear, concise, and confident. But even the best writers can fall into the habit of using filler words, vague terms, and unnecessary phrases that weaken their message. These words often sneak in without us noticing—but once you learn to spot them, you’ll see how much stronger your writing becomes when you cut them out.
Here are 15 words and phrases to watch for—and what to use instead.
1. Very
“Very” tries to intensify meaning but usually weakens it.
Weak: The book was very interesting.
Stronger: The book was fascinating / compelling.
2. Really
Similar to “very,” it adds little weight to your statement.
Weak: I was really tired.
Stronger: I was exhausted.
3. In Order To / In Order That
Almost always can be shortened to “to” or “so that.”
Weak: I wrote this book in order to inspire others.
Stronger: I wrote this book to inspire others.
4. Actually
Often adds nothing and can sound condescending.
Weak: I actually think you’re right.
Stronger: I think you’re right.
5. It Seemed / It Appeared
These can make your writing sound unsure. If you have evidence, state it directly.
Weak: It seemed the project was failing.
Stronger: The project was failing.
6. That (When Unnecessary)
Sometimes “that” is essential—but often it’s just clutter.
Weak: She said that she was leaving.
Stronger: She said she was leaving.
7. Just
Minimizes your point or makes it sound apologetic.
Weak: I just wanted to share my thoughts.
Stronger: I wanted to share my thoughts.
8. Really Quite
Doubling up on weak intensifiers doesn’t make them stronger.
Weak: It was really quite strange.
Stronger: It was bizarre.
9. Sort Of / Kind Of
These make statements fuzzy and noncommittal.
Weak: The meeting was sort of productive.
Stronger: The meeting was partially productive / inefficient.
10. Literally
Unless something is physically true, “literally” is often misused.
Weak: I was literally glued to the seat.
Stronger: I was riveted.
11. Due To The Fact That
Almost always replaceable with “because” or “since.”
Weak: We left early due to the fact that it was raining.
Stronger: We left early because it was raining.
12. Very Unique
“Unique” already means one of a kind—it doesn’t need modifying.
Weak: The design was very unique.
Stronger: The design was unique.
13. At This Point In Time
A long-winded way to say “now” or “currently.”
Weak: At this point in time, the plan is working.
Stronger: Currently, the plan is working.
14. I Think / I Believe (When Overused)
It’s fine occasionally, but overuse makes your writing sound tentative.
Weak: I think honesty is important.
Stronger: Honesty is important.
15. Very, Very (Repeated Intensifiers)
Doubling up on “very” doesn’t strengthen your point—it dilutes it.
Weak: She was very, very happy.
Stronger: She was ecstatic.
How to Use This List
When editing, scan your manuscript for these words and phrases. Ask:
Does this word add meaning?
Can I replace it with something more precise?
Would the sentence be stronger without it?
By removing weak words, your nonfiction writing will become sharper, more confident, and far more engaging for your readers.