Simpler alternatives to wordy phrases
Even when a more formal or authoritative tone is called for, elaborate expressions and big words are rarely necessary. Used in excess, they can sound pompous, alienate the reader, hinder communication and even cause unintentional humour.
| Wordy phrase | Simpler alternative/s |
|---|---|
| a majority of | most |
| adequate number of | enough |
| along the lines of | like |
| appears to be | appears |
| with regard to | about, regarding |
| at such time as | when |
| at the present time, at this time | now |
| until such time as | until |
| be in a position to | able to, can |
| I am of the opinion | I believe, I think |
| by means of | by |
| despite the fact that | although |
| due to the fact that | because |
| during such time | while |
| for the reason that | because |
| make a decision to | decide to |
| has the ability to | can |
| if conditions are such that | if |
| in a timely manner | quickly, on time |
| in close proximity to | near, next to |
| in many cases | often, usually |
| in the event that | if |
| it has come to my attention that | I have learned |
| on a daily basis | every day, daily |
| in view of the fact that | as, because, since |
| it is recommended that | we recommend |
| it would appear that | apparently |
| it would be advisable to | should, ought |
| notwithstanding | because |
| be cognisant of the fact that | realise, be aware |
| prior to | before |
| that being the case | therefore |
| to the fullest extent possible | fully |
| to the extent that | as much as |
| with reference to the fact that | about, concerning |
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