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Poor writing is lazy, careless writing, an attempt to…

“Poor writing is lazy, careless writing, an attempt to communicate without adequate preparation or care. It is writing replete with passive construction, limp verbs, leaden clichés, mixed metaphors, dangling participles and misplaced modifiers, and other enemies of clear prose.” quote by Mark Nichol
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““Poor writing is lazy, careless writing, an attempt to communicate without adequate preparation or care. It is writing replete with passive construction, limp verbs, leaden clichés, mixed metaphors, dangling participles and misplaced modifiers, and other enemies of clear prose.””

Mark Nichol

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Poor writing lacks care, clarity, and proper technique, resulting in confusing prose.

In simple terms: Bad writing is careless and unclear.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize editing and clarity.

Themes

writing clarity editing

Mood

critical educational

Type

writing technical

When to use this quote

  • self‑editing
  • peer review

Key Concepts

academic work creative writing

Questions to Reflect On

  • What editing habits improve your prose?
  • How can you avoid passive voice?
A Different Perspective

Improving style takes time and effort.

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