Quotes for Writers (and people who like quotes) William Salfire on cliches, superlatives and other misdemeanours

Do not put statements in the negative form.
And don’t start sentences with a conjunction.
If you reread your work, you will find on rereading that a
great deal of repetition can be avoided by rereading and editing.
Never use a long word when a diminutive one will do.
Unqualified superlatives are the worst of all.
De-accession euphemisms.
If any word is improper at the end of a sentence, a linking verb is.
Avoid trendy locutions that sound flaky.
Last, but not least, avoid cliches like the plague.
William Safire

photo credit: Kerri Lee Smith – on vacation until 10/15 via photopin cc

2 comments on “Quotes for Writers (and people who like quotes) William Salfire on cliches, superlatives and other misdemeanours”

1. cathum

   October 27, 2013

   

   Thanks for finding this. What a great show AND tell.

   Reply
2. bridget whelan

   October 27, 2013

   

   I love it!

   Reply

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