Language Quote by Tom Schulman
““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
Source Quote: Writing advice, 2014
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.
