Phrases to Avoid

In writing, but also in speaking:

• "like" in any usage other than as a simile
• "you know?" or "y'know?" If I don't know, you'll tell me; if I do know, you've insulted me.
• "a lot" This is no quantifier or qualifier. Ask "how much/many do I actually mean?" and give that amount.
• "guy" Historically, this is an insult. Even if it were not, it's still too vague; there are many types of "guy."

Particularly in writing:

• "In today's society . . ." Far too general . . . and besides, what "society" do you mean?
• "Since the beginning of time . . ." And this was . . . when, exactly? This is particularly offensive, especially when followed by something which doesn't fit the time-frame you propose; i.e., "Since the beginning of time, people have carried Walkmans . . ."
• "Normal" What's "normal"? If you can define what it is, then use the definition, not the word.
• "Needless to say . . ." Then why say it?
• "I will hopefully show [whatever] . . ." Either you will or you won't; the reader will find out soon enough.
• "Only time will tell." Oh, please! This is the worst concluding line in history. It will probably be found at the end of a paper that starts with "Since the beginning of time . . ."
• "Whether it be . . ." Pretentious. Find something to substitute.
• "Due to the fact that . . ." Hyper-pretentious. Why not simply use "Because"?
• "Family values" (or any other loaded sound-bite words) If you can define this more clearly, then use the definition.
• "In conclusion . . ." Used only when the writer has no other way to end her/his paper. A warning sign that the conclusion is a *snore*.

Since the beginning of time, metaphors have been used by people. In today's society, this is considered normal. I will hopefully show that this is interesting and important. Needless to say, we have to learn about metaphors due to the fact that they will always be with us. Whether it be in our television or in our family values, metaphors will be seen. In conclusion, I think I have shown how important metaphors are in today's society. Who knows what could happen in the future. Only time will tell.