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Never say anything in writing that you wouldn't…

“Never say anything in writing that you wouldn't comfortably say in conversation. Be yourself when you write. If you're not a person who says 'indeed' or 'moreover,' or who calls someone an individual ('he's a fine individual'), please don't write it.” quote by William Zinsser
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“Never say anything in writing that you wouldn't comfortably say in conversation. Be yourself when you write. If you're not a person who says 'indeed' or 'moreover,' or who calls someone an individual ('he's a fine individual'), please don't write it.”

William Zinsser

About This Quote

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

Write in a natural voice; avoid artificial words that don’t match your speech style.

In simple terms: Write as you speak.

Key Takeaway

Stay authentic in writing.

Themes

writing authenticity communication

Mood

instructive practical

Type

educational literary

When to use this quote

  • blog posts
  • professional emails
  • creative essays

Key Concepts

voice style clarity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your writing sound to others?
  • What words feel unnatural to you?
A Different Perspective

Over‑formal language can alienate readers.

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