I've come across discussion in several quarters about the need to eliminate forms of the verb "to be" from one's writing. I tend to use that form when describing identity, the characteristics of a thing, or when making comparisons and contrasts.
To that end, find below a list of stronger verbs capable of standing in for the dreaded "to be" construction:
1. Identifying:
Identify
Label
Recognize
Diagnose
Distinguish
Attribute
Tag
Define
Classify
Characterize
2. Describing Characteristics:
Display
Exhibit
Show
Illustrate
Portray
Manifest
Present
Depict
Evoke
Indicate
3. Comparing and Contrasting:
Compare
Contrast
Differentiate
Relate
Analogize
Equate
Match
Parallel
Correlate
Link
4. Existence and State:
Exist
Persist
Endure
Prevail
Reside
Occur
Abide
Subsist
Remain
Inhabit
5. Condition and Quality:
Excel
Flourish
Thrive
Shine
Radiate
Gleam
Dazzle
Sparkle
Glitter
Glimmer
6. Location and Position:
Position
Locate
Situate
Place
Position
Rest
Lie
Settle
Station
Lodge
7. Feelings and Emotions:
Feel
Sense
Experience
Perceive
Detect
Discern
Acknowledge
React
Respond
Embrace
8. Thinking and Understanding:
Think
Ponder
Contemplate
Reflect
Consider
Deliberate
Speculate
Ruminate
Conjecture
Analyze
9. Communication and Expression:
Communicate
Express
Convey
Articulate
Vocalize
Verbalize
Phrase
Word
State
Declare
10. Movement and Action:
Move
Act
Perform
Execute
Operate
Conduct
Engage
Maneuver
Navigate
Proceed
Remember, the choice of verb can significantly impact the tone and clarity of your writing, so choose the ones that best fit the context and desired effect.
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