A sentence should contain no unnecessary words, a…
“A sentence should contain no unnecessary words, a paragraph no unnecessary sentences, for the same reason that a drawing should have no unnecessary lines and a machine no unnecessary parts.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Writing should be concise; unnecessary words and sentences dilute clarity, just as superfluous lines or parts hinder a drawing or machine.
In simple terms: Be concise in writing.
Key Takeaway
Eliminate excess words.
Themes
clarity
efficiency
style
Mood
educational
practical
Type
instructional
advice
When to use this quote
- editing essays
- technical manuals
- marketing copy
- software documentation
Key Concepts
writing craft
communication theory
design principles
Questions to Reflect On
- What is the balance between brevity and richness?
- How does conciseness affect reader engagement?
A Different Perspective
Over‑editing can strip personality.