Exploring Writing - Gary Robert Muschla 2011

Exercise 2.8 Strong Verbs
Using Strong Verbs
Part 2. Writing the Draft

Closely linked to active constructions are strong verbs. Like active constructions, strong verbs paint clear pictures in the imaginations of readers. English is a vast, rich language. We have words for just about everything, and we have exact verbs for all kinds of action.

Exercise 2.8 Strong Verbs

Study the following pairs of sentences:

✵ The wind was powerful.

✵ The wind gusted.

✵ The squirrel went up the tree.

✵ The squirrel scampered up the tree.

✵ The little girl called loudly for her brother.

✵ The little girl shouted for her brother.

The second sentence of each pair uses a strong verb to show the action. Strong verbs result in writing that is less wordy. For practice with strong verbs, do Worksheet 2.14 at the end of this section.