There is an ongoing discussion amongst writers on the best practices when using adverbs in our writing.
You’ve probably heard more than one writer say to not use adverbs!
Even notable writers such as Stephen King have warned against overusing adverbs.
Today’s blog post will review why adverbs have gained such a bad rap, the reasons to avoid them and when you might still want to include an adverb.
I’ll leave you with some handy reflection questions to help you determine what adverbs to cut and which to keep in your manuscript!
What Are Adverbs?
Adverbs are modifiers that can change the meaning or description of a word, phrase or entire sentence.
When we think of adverbs, we often consider the sneaky “-ly” words which are the most common offenders in our writing.
Consider the sentence: “He ran quickly.”
Here, the writer has modified the word “quick” by adding the suffix “-ly” at the end.
To make matters worse, this description is unnecessary because the reader can predict how quickly the character is moving. Run by itself reflects a quick pace.
This modifier sneaks its way into our writing everywhere. Adjectives, action and dialogue tags can become bogged down with these adverbs.
Some additional adverbs such as “very” and “really” disguise themselves as common words that can easily weaken a story.
“I am very angry with you,” is less effective than “I am furious.”
In the place of adverbs, use precise words, thus warding against redundancy.
Why Are Writers Told to Cut Out Adverbs?
In his memoir, “On Writing,” Stephen King tells all writers to cut out adverbs.
He explains that they are lazy. You would be best served to spend your time crafting strong sentences.
When you use adverbs, you weaken your writing by telling the readers what is happening, not showing them.
“Show, Don’t Tell,” is another writerly saying in itself.
Too often, adverbs become a crutch used in place of stronger verbs and phrases.
Your readers are smart.
They will pick up on the subtext and know the meaning that you intend. You don’t need to spell it out for them. Let them do some of the work themselves.
Case in Point
With Adverbs: She drove quickly to his house and excitedly knocked.
Without Adverbs: She sped down the driveway and knocked, bouncing on her heels.
By removing the adverbs and inserting precise words, we have created a vivid and engaging reader experience.
Thus, writers are told to cut out adverbs because when they are removed, your prose becomes sharper, your meaning crisp and clear.
Is It Okay to Use Adverbs Sometimes?
Yes! Absolutely!
There are times when you will reread your writing and determine that the adverb serves your story well.
Dialogue is one place where you might insert adverbs to identify differing character voices or match realistic speech.
For example, depending on the character and the scenario, “I really don’t care,” may work even though removing the adverb could also be an option.
As you become a confident writer, you’ll find it easier to assert your stylistic tone in your work without overusing adverbs.
How to Decide When to Cut Out or Keep Adverbs
Below, I have provided you with a few reflection questions.
As you review your writing, consider the placement of each adverb you come upon.
Use the questions as a guide, strengthening your writing without reliance on adverbs.
4 Questions to Determine if You Should Keep an Adverb in Your Writing
1. Review the definition of your core word (ex. “Ran” in “ran quickly). Does the word on its own already hold the meaning that you intended?
2. Does the adverb restate what is already implied in your prose? (note: take a look at the entire paragraph or sentences around the adverb.)
3. Can you replace the adverb with a stronger verb, phrase or sentence?
4. Does the adverb add meaningful context or character voice that will disappear without it?
We must trust in our readers’ abilities to understand our meaning without relying on adverbs.
By using strong verbs, imagery and prose, you can write engaging stories for your audience.
While adverbs aren’t evil, they should be used sparingly and with intention.
Practice identifying and considering the effectiveness of adverbs in the books that you read!
This exercise will help you to notice their overuse within your writing.
Ready to give this a try in your manuscript?
Reread a page of your manuscript and circle all the adverbs that you see.
Consider each one’s place in your writing.
Should you cut it or keep it?
Over to you!
Share below if there’s a sneaky adverb that often appears in your writing.
Check out my blog post on 4 Words and Phrases to Avoid in Your Writing to ensure your WIP is as refined as possible!
Talk soon!
Julia
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