Redundant words should be avoided for three main reasons:


In the IB, where and clear expression are highly valued, paying attention to word choice can significantly impact your grades and the effectiveness of your essays. Remember, the phrases you choose can clarify your thoughts or muddle them. So, what words not to use in an essay? Let’s find out!


Moreover, the power of word choice extends beyond individual words to phrases and sentence structures. As you write, think about how your words flow together. Do they lead the reader smoothly from one point to the next? Are you being concise, or are your sentences bloated with unnecessary words? These considerations are crucial to making your essay informative, engaging, and easy to follow.

Throughout my extensive experience as an IB writer, I’ve realized the importance of word choice in academic essays. The difference between good and excellent work often lies in the writer’s ability to avoid certain common but ineffective words and phrases. Such terms can significantly weaken the strength and clarity of your arguments. Here’s a more comprehensive list of words to never use in an essay:

20+ Words to Avoid Writing in Your Essay | JLV College Counseling

Clichés are overused expressions that add little value to your text and can make your writing seem lazy. Essays demand thoughtful, precise language that reflects critical thinking. Replacing clichés with fresh, specific alternatives will enhance the quality of your writing and help convey your ideas more effectively.

Word choice in essay writing, especially in an IB context, is more than selecting sophisticated vocabulary. It’s fundamentally about how effectively and convincingly you communicate your ideas.

As an experienced IB writer, I’ve learned the hard way about the power of words in academic writing. In this guide, I’m sharing my insights on words to avoid in essays. Remember, the words you choose can significantly impact the effectiveness of your paper. Let’s get started!

Removing the examples of flabby words and expressions listed below from your paper will automatically help you to take your essay to a higher level.


Words NOT to Use in an Essay and Replacement Options

Here is our list of words and phrases you should ditch, together with some alternatives that will be so much more impressive. For some further inspiration, check out our .

List of 125 Words and Phrases You Should Never Use in an Essay

If you’re serious about improving your essay scores, you must ensure you make the most of every single word and phrase you use in your paper and avoid any that rob your essay of its power (check out our for more details).

What are some words you should never use in an essay

Redundant phrases add unnecessary words that clutter your writing. Keeping your sentences concise helps maintain a smooth essay structure and ensures every word has a purpose.

Words and Phrases to Avoid in Academic Writing

By paying attention to your word choice, you can start to build your marks. Sometimes it’s more important to focus on words to avoid than words to include.

Words and Phrases to Avoid in your College Essays

is supposed to be succinct, clear, and to-the-point. It should be analytical and critical. However, it should do this calmly and professionally. By exaggeration, being emotional, and being assertive, you are doing yourself a disservice.

Words to Avoid in Academic Writing

In this post, I have outlined three types of words to avoid , with examples. I have highlighted that you should avoid these three types of words:

Words to Avoid in Essays: Key Tips for Clarity

These are all common words not to use in an essay. Avoiding these phrases will help you write more effectively and persuasively. It’s all about being specific and confident in your writing. Remember, every word you choose has power, so select options that strengthen your arguments and convey your ideas.