7 BUZZWORDS YOU SHOULD STOP USING
AND WHAT TO SAY INSTEAD
12 July 2024
Written by Omneya Nabil
Words like “leverage,” “boost,” and “enhance” still pop up everywhere.
I personally hate them (although I must admit that I have used them in my copy at some point).
They might have been impressive at first, but now they sound too impersonal, generic, and cliché. And AI has made it even worse.
To make your communication clear and impactful, you need to choose words that are more specific and descriptive.
And, if you absolutely need to use buzzwords, communicate how exactly they work and the benefits your prospects would be getting beyond this claim/promise.
Here are seven buzzwords you should stop using (and what you can say instead).
1. Leverage
This has become the go-to word in business jargon. But it’s overused. And it often comes across as vague.
Instead, use specific verbs like “use,” “apply,” or “employ” to clearly convey how you’re using your resources or skills.
2. Boost
Boost is overused to the point of losing its impact. It’s often used without specifying what the improvement actually is.
Instead, be more descriptive with words like “increase,” “raise,” or “improve” to clarify the type of enhancement you’re referring to.
3. Enhance
Yes, it may sound fancy, but it’s often used to gloss over the details of actual improvements.
Instead, use specific terms like “strengthen,” “upgrade,” or “refine” to add clarity and precision to your message.
4. Optimise
This word can be too broad and technical. And it often fails to communicate specific benefits or actions.
Replace it with “improve” or “fine-tune” to specify the changes and improvements that are being made.
5. Transform
This one is a dramatic word, but it can be overkill, especially if the change isn’t as significant as the word implies.
Instead, use words like “change,” “modify,” or “evolve” to accurately describe the level of change taking place.
6. Streamline
Streamline is often overused in corporate settings and can sound like empty jargon.
Instead, use words like “simplify,” “reduce,” or “organise” to communicate the actual steps being taken to improve efficiency.
7. Amplify
It sounds like a great word to use, but it can be too abstract. It makes it hard to grasp the real impact.
Instead, use terms like “expand,” “extend,” or “increase” to provide a clearer picture of what’s being amplified.
Over to you. What buzzwords would you add to this list? Join the conversation by visiting the original post on LinkedIn.