Expendable Words

Last Updated on May 14, 2026 by Damiana Chiavolini, MS, PhD

Experts in scientific and medical fields may believe that using more words in their writing is better. Some may even think that embellishing text will make their research or information more compelling. But readers are busy and writing should help them understand content. Unnecessary words and surplus text can clutter text, obscure your meaning, and slow readers down.  

To make a reader’s job easier, simplify text and improve clarity by removing redundant words, replacing long phrases, and eliminating wordiness. 

1. Remove expendable words: 

Examples 

Fewer in number 

Revision: Fewer 

Red in color 

Revision: Red 

Prior history 

Revision: History 

2. Replace long phrases with simple words that have the same meaning, when possible: 

Examples 

At this point in time 

Revision: Now   

Are of the same opinion 

Revision: Agree  

Has an effect on 

Revision: Influences   

3. Eliminate wordiness  

Examples  

It is important to note that 8 mice were included for each group in the vaccine study 

Revision: The vaccine study included 8 mice for each group 

It can be observed that participants who received the test drug had no GI symptoms 

Revision: Participants who received the test drug had no GI symptoms 

In consequence of these facts, we do not know how much heat affects autoimmune disease 

Revision: We currently do not know how much heat affects autoimmune disease 

Tips 

• Because clarity is more important than brevity, always make sure that the word you use to replace a phrase is accurate.  
• Keep relevant resources at hand so you can look up words and phrases (eg, a thesaurus, medical dictionary, or the AMA Manual of Style). 

Keep this list nearby when you edit and proofread your work. Add more unnecessary phrases to the list as needed! 

Want to learn more?

Discover our Shortening Sentences tips.

Want to stay connected and receive our content?

Sign up for the Evergreen Newsletter!