So avoid using the word ‘very’ because it’s lazy. A man is…
““So avoid using the word ‘very’ because it’s lazy. A man is not very tired, he is exhausted. Don’t use very sad, use morose. Language was invented for one reason, boys - to woo women - and, in that endeavor, laziness will not do. It also won’t do in your essays.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Advises avoiding overused intensifiers and using precise language to enhance communication.
In simple terms: Use specific words instead of vague intensifiers.
Key Takeaway
Choose precise vocabulary.
Themes
writing
language
clarity
style
communication
Mood
analytical
educational
Type
instructional
literary
When to use this quote
- editing
- teaching
- public speaking
- creative writing
Key Concepts
lexicon
rhetoric
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does word choice affect reader perception?
- When is “very” acceptable?
A Different Perspective
May sound overly prescriptive to some writers.