What Does This Quote Mean? - Writers Forum

bmroyer · 07-11-2005, 11:19 PM

Quote:

“Substitute 'damn' every time you're inclined to write 'very'; your editor will delete it and the writing will be just as it should be.”

journyman161 · 07-11-2005, 11:23 PM

It means, don't use very in your work. The author thinks it unecessary to use the word at all. So you get the editor to do it.

I think it would have to be a bit stronger than 'damn' though

mammamaia · 07-12-2005, 08:38 AM

these days, for sure!

i'd include 'that' in that advice... i find it the most over/mis-used word by beginners...

barefootwriter · 07-16-2005, 01:52 AM

Very's a lousy word to use, but likely to be overlooked. So insert damn because your editor will notice it and cut it. Better yet, avoid both (unless the damn is in order).

Very dilutes meaning.

Think:
She was very beautiful.
She was beautiful.

The second is so much better. . .