Is "That" Really "Very" Necessary?
Lift your writing from average to polished with some simple
little edits you can do right now.
That and very are two of the most overused words
in writing and often the most overlooked by writers. By using
these words with care, you'll find your sentences flowing
smoothly, and there'll be a hint of professionalism others will
be aware of, without knowing quite how you did it.
THAT
Get the feel for when to trash the word by mentally discarding
it as you edit. If the sentence works without the word, toss it;
if the sentence falls apart, keep it.
Examples:
It wasn't that easy for Lisa to study for exams.
It wasn't easy for Lisa to study for exams.
* The sentence is solid. Toss "that."
It isn't that Lisa can't learn, she's just busy.
It isn't Lisa can't learn, she's just busy.
* In this case, the sentence fell apart. Keep "that."
Lisa tore down the notice that was posted on the door.
Lisa tore down the notice was posted on the door.
* Here you will also need to cut the word "was" to get rid of
all the unnecessary words:
Lisa tore down the notice posted on the door.
VERY
This word, too often, takes the place of stronger words or tags
along completely unneeded with words that are strong on their
own. When "very" is added to a weak word, such as "nice" or
"angry," it is a good indicator that a stronger word choice may
be necessary to replace both, or that more description is
required.
Examples:
She was very excited about the upcoming party.
She was excited about the upcoming party.
* "Excited" is a strong word by itself, but could be replaced
by a more vibrant word for increased effect. "Ecstatic" or
"impatient" would work, depending on the depth of emotion you're
seeking.
Gordon was very angry when he saw the dent in his car.
Gordon was angry when he saw the dent in his car.
* In this case, "angry" by itself is weak. "Livid" would
work, but more description would strengthen this, which could
require a rewrite.
When Gordon saw the dent in his Porsche, his recent good mood
was suddenly replaced by a rage, the likes of which the small
town hadn't seen since the Great Tornado of '78.
Get rid of "that" and do it "very" quickly. You'll see the
improvement in your writing immediately.