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How effective is the copy on your business website? Is it convincing people to do business with you, or encouraging them to leave?

Grammar Check share their mistakes to avoid in these four infographics.

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20 Clutter Words & Phrases We Use Too Often

In the competitive realm of online business, the words you choose to convey your message can make or break your success.

Effective website copywriting is crucial for engaging visitors and driving conversions. However, certain clutter words and phrases can detract from the impact of your message, leading potential customers to navigate away from your site.

In this article, we’ll delve into 20 such clutter words and phrases that are commonly used in website copywriting, and discuss why avoiding them can help keep visitors engaged and interested in what you have to offer.

All of

Using “all of” in your website copy can make your sentences unnecessarily verbose. Instead, opt for a more concise alternative or rephrase the sentence altogether to eliminate this clutter phrase.

For example, replace “All of our products are made with organic ingredients” with “Our products are made with organic ingredients.”

As a matter of fact

While this phrase might seem to add emphasis, it can come across as unnecessary filler in website copy. Keep your sentences clear and direct by eliminating phrases like “as a matter of fact.”

For instance, replace “As a matter of fact, our software is the most user-friendly on the market” with “Our software is the most user-friendly on the market.”

As being

Similar to “as a matter of fact,” “as being” can often be omitted without altering the meaning of the sentence. Streamline your website copy by removing unnecessary words.

For example, replace “The product was advertised as being suitable for all skin types” with “The product was advertised as suitable for all skin types.”

As yet

As yet” can sound archaic and is rarely used in modern website copywriting. Opt for simpler alternatives like “yet” or rephrase the sentence to avoid this clutter phrase.

For example, replace “We have not received your payment as yet” with “We have not received your payment yet.”

At all times

Using “at all times” in your website copy can sound overly formal and repetitive. Instead, consider using more concise alternatives such as “always” or “constantly.”

For instance, replace “Our customer service team is available to assist you at all times” with “Our customer service team is available to assist you 24/7.”

Basically

“Basically” is a filler word that adds little value to your website copy. Eliminate it to make your message more direct and impactful.

For example, replace “Basically, our product is designed to simplify your workflow” with “Our product is designed to simplify your workflow.”

Essentially

Similar to “basically,” “essentially” is often used unnecessarily in website copywriting. Trim your sentences to keep them concise and to the point.

For instance, replace “Essentially, our platform allows you to streamline your project management process” with “Our platform allows you to streamline your project management process.”

Being that

“Being that” can sound awkward and convoluted in website copy. Opt for simpler alternatives like “since” or “because.”

For example, replace “Being that our products are handmade, each item is unique” with “Since our products are handmade, each item is unique.”

During the course of

Using “during the course of” in your website copy can make your sentences unnecessarily wordy. Simplify your language to keep visitors engaged.

For instance, replace “During the course of our partnership, we will provide ongoing support” with “Throughout our partnership, we will provide ongoing support.”

Each and every

While “each and every” can add emphasis, it is often redundant in website copy. Choose one or the other depending on the context, or simply use “every” for brevity.

For example, replace “Each and every customer is important to us” with “Every customer is important to us.”

For all intents and purposes

This phrase can sound overly formal and out of place in website copy. Opt for simpler language to ensure your message resonates with visitors.

For example, replace “For all intents and purposes, our product is the best in its category” with “Our product is the best in its category.”

For the most part

Using “for the most part” in your website copy can weaken the impact of your message. Be more definitive in your statements to instill confidence in your visitors.

For instance, replace “For the most part, our customers are satisfied with our service” with “The majority of our customers are satisfied with our service.”

In order

“In order” is often unnecessary in website copy and can be omitted without changing the meaning of the sentence.

For example, replace “In order to complete your purchase, please fill out the form below” with “To complete your purchase, please fill out the form below.”

In the process of

Using “in the process of” in your website copy can make your sentences sound vague and indefinite.

Be more specific about actions or events to keep visitors engaged. For example, replace “In the process of redesigning our website, we are focusing on user experience” with “As we redesign our website, we are focusing on user experience.

Just

While “just” can add emphasis, it is often overused in website copywriting and can detract from the clarity of your message.

Consider whether it adds value to your sentence before including it. For instance, replace “Just click the button below to get started” with “Click the button below to get started.”

Point in time

Using “point in time” in your website copy can sound overly formal and outdated. Opt for simpler alternatives like “time” or “moment.”

For example, replace “At this point in time, our inventory is limited” with “Currently, our inventory is limited.”

Pretty

“Pretty” is a filler word that adds little value to your website copy. Eliminate it to make your message more concise and impactful.

For example, replace “The product is pretty easy to use” with “The product is easy to use.”

Simply

Similar to “basically” and “essentially,” “simply” is often used unnecessarily in website copywriting. Trim your sentences to keep them clear and concise.

For instance, replace “Simply enter your email address to subscribe to our newsletter” with “Enter your email address to subscribe to our newsletter.”

That

“That” is often used unnecessarily in website copy and can be omitted without changing the meaning of the sentence.

For example, replace “We believe that our product is the best on the market” with “We believe our product is the best on the market.”

Up / down

While these words can be useful for describing direction, they are often overused in website copywriting and can sound repetitive.

Consider more descriptive alternatives to keep your copy engaging. For example, replace “Scroll up to view more products” with “Scroll to the top to view more products.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, eliminating clutter words and phrases from your website copy can greatly enhance its effectiveness and engage visitors more effectively.

By opting for clear, concise language, you can keep your audience interested and motivated to explore further.

So, the next time you’re crafting website copy, keep these clutter words and phrases in mind and strive to create content that is impactful, engaging, and free from unnecessary clutter.

Your visitors will thank you for it.

44 Common Confusions to Annoy the Grammar Police

In the digital age, where every word matters, website copywriting mistakes can be detrimental to your online presence. Not only do they undermine your credibility, but they can also drive potential customers away.

To avoid annoying the grammar police and keep your audience engaged, it’s essential to understand and use language correctly.

In this section of the article, we’ll explore 44 common confusions in grammar and usage that frequently appear in website copywriting, and provide clear explanations to help you steer clear of these pitfalls.

Advance vs. Advanced

“Advance” is a verb meaning to move forward or progress, while “advanced” is an adjective describing something that is ahead in development or complexity.

For example, “Please advance to the next step” vs. “We offer advanced solutions.”

Affect vs. Effect

“Affect” is usually a verb meaning to influence or produce a change, while “effect” is typically a noun referring to the result of a change.

For example, “The new policy will affect our sales” vs. “The effect of the policy change was immediate.”

Altogether vs. “All together”

“Altogether” means entirely or completely, while “all together” means collectively or in a group.

For example, “I’m altogether pleased with the results” vs. “We were all together for the meeting.”

Alternate vs. Alternative

“Alternate” can be a verb meaning to take turns or an adjective meaning every other, while “alternative” is a noun or adjective referring to one of two or more options.

For example, “We alternate between morning and evening shifts” vs. “We offer alternative payment methods.”

Amount vs. Number

“Amount” is used for uncountable nouns, while “number” is used for countable nouns.

For example, “The amount of water in the reservoir is decreasing” vs. “The number of visitors to our website is increasing.”

Amused vs. Bemused

“Amused” means entertained or amused, while “bemused” means confused or puzzled.

For example, “The children were amused by the clown’s antics” vs. “She looked bemused by the unexpected question.”

Apart vs. “A part”

“Apart” means separated or at a distance, while “a part” means being a component of something larger.

For example, “The two friends lived apart from each other” vs. “Being a part of the team is an honor.”

Appraise vs. Apprise

“Appraise” means to assess or evaluate the value of something, while “apprise” means to inform or notify someone.

For example, “The real estate agent will appraise the value of the property” vs. “Please apprise me of any updates.”

Breath vs. Breathe

“Breath” is a noun referring to the air taken into or expelled from the lungs, while “breathe” is a verb describing the action of inhaling and exhaling.

For example, “Take a deep breath” vs. “Remember to breathe deeply.”

Breach vs. Breech

“Breach” is a noun or verb referring to a violation or break in a law, agreement, or security, while “breech” is a noun describing the rear or back end of something.

For example, “The data breach compromised sensitive information” vs. “The ship’s cargo was stored in the breech of the vessel.”

Bring vs. Take

“Bring” indicates movement toward the speaker or a specified location, while “take” indicates movement away from the speaker or a specified location.

For example, “Please bring the documents to the meeting” vs. “I’ll take the files with me when I leave.”

Depreciate vs. Deprecate

“Depreciate” means to decrease in value over time, especially in the context of assets or investments, while “deprecate” means to express disapproval of or criticize something.

For example, “The value of the car will depreciate over time” vs. “I deprecate the use of outdated software.”

Deserts vs. Deserts vs. Desserts

“Deserts” can mean arid, sandy regions or rewards or consequences earned through one’s actions, while “desserts” refers to sweet dishes served after a meal.

For example, “The Sahara and Mojave are deserts” vs. “She received her just deserts” vs. “We indulged in delicious desserts.”

Diffuse vs. Defuse

“Diffuse” means to spread out or scatter, while “defuse” means to remove the fuse from an explosive device or to calm or alleviate tension or conflict.

For example, “The essential oils help diffuse stress” vs. “The negotiator was able to defuse the situation.”

Disinterested vs. Uninterested

“Disinterested” means impartial or unbiased, while “uninterested” means lacking interest or enthusiasm.

For example, “The judge must remain disinterested in the case” vs. “He seemed uninterested in the topic of conversation.”

e.g. vs. i.e.

“e.g.” stands for “exempli gratia” and means “for example,” while “i.e.” stands for “id est” and means “that is” or “in other words.”

For example, “She enjoys outdoor activities, e.g., hiking and camping” vs. “She enjoys outdoor activities, i.e., activities that take place outside.”

Economic vs. Economical

“Economic” relates to economics or the economy, while “economical” means efficient or thrifty.

For example, “The economic situation is improving” vs. “The hybrid car is economical to run.”

Emigrate vs. Immigrate

“Emigrate” means to leave one’s own country to settle permanently in another, while “immigrate” means to enter and settle in a foreign country.

For example, “She plans to emigrate to Canada” vs. “He immigrated to the United States from Mexico.”

Flaunt vs. Flout

“Flaunt” means to display ostentatiously or show off, while “flout” means to openly disregard or disobey a rule or convention.

For example, “She flaunted her new designer handbag” vs. “He flouted the company’s dress code.”

Grisly vs. Grizzly vs. Grizzled

“Grisly” means causing horror or disgust, “grizzly” refers to a type of bear, and “grizzled” means having gray or partly gray hair.

For example, “The crime scene was grisly” vs. “We spotted a grizzly bear in the forest” vs. “The old sailor had a grizzled beard.”

“Home in” vs. “Hone in”

“Home in” means to move or be guided toward a target or objective, while “hone in” is a common but incorrect variation of “home in.”

For example, “The missile homed in on its target” vs. “We need to home in on the problem.”

Horde vs. Hoard

“Horde” refers to a large group of people or animals, while “hoard” is a verb meaning to accumulate or store a large quantity of something.

For example, “A horde of tourists descended upon the city” vs. “She hoarded supplies in preparation for the storm.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering these distinctions can elevate your website copywriting and prevent common errors that may deter visitors.

By paying attention to these nuances, you can ensure that your message is clear, concise, and free of grammatical and usage mistakes.

So, the next time you’re crafting website copy, keep these common confusions in mind and strive for clarity and accuracy.

Your readers—and the grammar police—will thank you for it.

20 Lazy Word Choices Even Native English Speakers Often Make

In the world of website copywriting, the words you choose can significantly impact how visitors perceive your brand and message.

However, even native English speakers sometimes fall into the trap of using lazy word choices that can undermine the effectiveness of their copy.

In this article, we’ll explore 20 common lazy word choices and discuss why avoiding them is crucial for maintaining engagement and credibility on your website.

Better

While “better” is a useful word, it’s often vague and lacks specificity. Instead of using “better,” strive to be more precise about what you’re comparing.

For example, instead of saying “Our product is better,” specify what aspect makes it superior, such as “Our product offers more features than the competition.”

Maybe / perhaps

“Maybe” and “perhaps” can make your writing sound uncertain and indecisive. Instead, opt for more assertive language to instill confidence in your audience.

For instance, replace “Maybe we’ll launch a new product next year” with “We plan to launch a new product next year.”

Big / little

“Big” and “little” are vague descriptors that lack specificity. Instead, use more precise terms to paint a clearer picture for your audience.

For example, instead of saying “We offer big discounts,” specify the exact percentage, such as “We offer discounts of up to 50%.”

Very

“Very” is an overused modifier that often adds little value to your writing. Instead of relying on “very,” choose stronger adjectives to convey your message more effectively.

For example, instead of saying “very happy,” use “ecstatic” or “delighted.”

Almost

“Almost” can weaken your statements by implying that something isn’t quite achieved. Instead, be specific about what was accomplished or nearly accomplished.

For example, instead of saying “We almost reached our sales target,” specify the percentage achieved, such as “We reached 90% of our sales target.”

Amazing

While “amazing” is a positive word, it’s become overused and can lose its impact. Instead, choose more specific and descriptive language to convey your message authentically.

For instance, instead of saying “Our product is amazing,” highlight specific features or benefits that make it stand out.

Always / never

“Always” and “never” are absolute terms that can be problematic because few things are truly constant. Using these words can make your statements seem exaggerated or unrealistic. Instead, qualify your statements with more accurate terms.

For example, instead of saying “Our product always exceeds expectations,” say “Our product consistently exceeds expectations.”

Pronouns with unclear antecedents

Using pronouns like “it,” “this,” or “that” without a clear antecedent can confuse readers and weaken your message. Ensure that your pronouns have clear references to avoid ambiguity.

For example, instead of saying “It’s a great deal,” specify what “it” refers to, such as “Our latest promotion offers a great deal.”

Sadly / tragically

While “sadly” and “tragically” can convey a sense of sorrow, they are often unnecessary and can come across as melodramatic.

Instead, let the facts speak for themselves and avoid adding emotional qualifiers unless absolutely necessary.

Just

“Just” is a filler word that often adds unnecessary clutter to your writing. Eliminate it to make your sentences more concise and direct.

For example, instead of saying “I just wanted to let you know,” say “I wanted to let you know.”

Really

“Really” is another filler word that adds little value to your writing. Remove it to make your sentences stronger and more impactful.

For example, instead of saying “I really enjoyed the webinar,” say “I enjoyed the webinar.”

Stuff

“Stuff” is a vague and informal term that lacks specificity. Instead, use more precise language to describe what you’re referring to.

For example, instead of saying “We offer a lot of stuff,” specify the products or services you provide.

However

“While “however” can be useful for transitioning between ideas, it’s often overused and can make your writing sound repetitive.

Consider using other transition words or restructuring your sentences for clarity.

Accordingly

“Accordingly” is a formal word that can sound stiff and impersonal in website copy. Opt for clearer and more conversational language to engage your audience effectively.

Majority

“Majority” is a word that can sometimes be vague and imprecise. Instead, be specific about the percentage or proportion you’re referring to.

Go / went

“Go” and “went” are basic verbs that can often be replaced with more descriptive action verbs to make your writing more engaging.

For example, instead of saying “He went to the store,” say “He rushed to the store” or “He strolled to the store,” depending on the context.

That

“That” is a common word that is often unnecessary and can be omitted without changing the meaning of the sentence.

Review your sentences and eliminate any instances of “that” that don’t add clarity.

Type / kind

“Type” and “kind” are generic terms that can often be replaced with more specific descriptors to provide more detail and clarity.

For example, instead of saying “We offer various types of products,” specify what those products are, such as “We offer a range of skincare products.”

Different

“Different” is a broad and vague term that doesn’t provide much information. Instead, be specific about what sets your products or services apart from the competition.

For example, instead of saying “Our product is different,” specify what makes it unique or innovative.

Things

“Things” is a generic term that lacks specificity and can make your writing sound vague. Instead, identify the specific items or concepts you’re referring to.

For example, instead of saying “We have a lot of things to offer,” specify the products or services you provide.

Conclusion

In conclusion, eliminating lazy word choices from your website copywriting can significantly improve its effectiveness and impact.

By opting for more precise, descriptive language, you can better engage your audience and convey your message with clarity and authenticity.

So, the next time you’re crafting website copy, be mindful of these common lazy word choices and strive to choose words that strengthen your message and enhance the user experience.

Your readers will appreciate the effort, and you’ll likely see improved results in terms of engagement and conversion.

16 Boring Verbs & What to Use Instead

In the realm of website copywriting, the choice of verbs plays a crucial role in captivating your audience and keeping them engaged.

However, relying on mundane and overused verbs can lead to lackluster copy that fails to resonate with your readers.

In this section of the article, we’ll explore 16 common boring verbs often found in website copywriting and suggest more dynamic alternatives to inject energy and excitement into your content.

Cry

While “cry” is a straightforward verb, it lacks depth and emotional resonance. Instead, consider using more descriptive verbs that convey the specific type of crying.

For example:

Sob
Weep
Wail
Bawl
Snivel

Sleep

“Sleep” is a basic verb that fails to evoke imagery or interest. To paint a vivid picture, opt for verbs that depict different aspects of sleep or rest.

For example:

Doze
Snooze
Slumber
Nod off
Drift off

Yell

“Yell” is a blunt verb that lacks nuance. To convey varying degrees of vocal intensity, consider using alternatives that capture different forms of loud communication.

For example:

Shout
Scream
Holler
Bellow
Roar

Jump

While “jump” conveys a basic action, it may not fully capture the excitement or agility of the movement. Experiment with verbs that evoke a sense of leaping or bounding.

For example:

Leap
Bound
Vault
Spring
Bounce

Close

“Close” is a straightforward verb that may seem uninspired in certain contexts. Explore alternatives that convey various methods or degrees of closing.

For example:

Shut
Seal
Secure
Fasten
Clasp

Talk

While “talk” is a common verb for communication, it can feel bland and generic. Spice up your copy with verbs that reflect different modes or styles of conversation.

For example:

Chat
Converse
Communicate
Discuss
Dialogue

Run

While “run” is a versatile verb, it may not fully capture the speed or agility of movement. Experiment with verbs that convey different aspects of running or racing.

For example:

Sprint
Dash
Jog
Race
Bolt

Win

“Win” is a straightforward verb that may lack excitement or drama. Consider using alternatives that emphasize the triumph or achievement associated with winning.

For example:

Triumph
Prevail
Conquer
Vanquish
Overcome

Work

While “work” is a common verb for labor or effort, it may not fully capture the intensity or dedication involved.

Explore verbs that convey different aspects of work or productivity. For example:

Labor
Toil
Strive
Grind
Hustle

Play

While “play” conveys a sense of recreation or amusement, it may not fully capture the variety or intensity of play.

Experiment with verbs that reflect different forms or levels of engagement. For example:

Frolic
Gambol
Frolic
Revel
Engage

Hit

“Hit” is a simple verb for striking or impacting, but it may lack specificity or intensity. Choose verbs that convey different degrees or types of impact.

For example:

Strike
Smack
Slam
Pound
Wallop

Cook

While “cook” is a straightforward verb for preparing food, it may not fully convey the skill or creativity involved.

Explore verbs that reflect different techniques or styles of cooking. For example:

Grill
Roast
Saute
Broil
Bake

Clean

While “clean” is a basic verb for tidying or removing dirt, it may not fully capture the thoroughness or efficiency of cleaning.

Opt for verbs that convey different methods or degrees of cleanliness. For example:

Scrub
Sweep
Dust
Polish
Sanitize

Sell

While “sell” is a common verb for exchanging goods or services for money, it may not fully capture the persuasion or negotiation involved.

Choose verbs that convey different aspects of selling or marketing. For example:

Market
Promote
Pitch
Persuade
Close

Give

While “give” is a simple verb for offering or donating, it may not fully convey the generosity or selflessness involved.

Explore verbs that reflect different motivations or contexts for giving. For example:

Donate
Offer
Grant
Provide
Contribute

Throw

While “throw” is a basic verb for tossing or hurling, it may not fully capture the force or precision of the action.

Experiment with verbs that convey different styles or techniques of throwing. For example:

Hurl
Lob
Chuck
Pitch
Fling

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing dynamic and engaging verbs is essential for creating compelling website copy that captivates your audience and keeps them engaged.

By swapping out boring verbs for more descriptive and evocative alternatives, you can breathe new life into your content and make a lasting impression on your readers.

So, the next time you’re crafting website copy, consider the impact of your verb choices and choose words that resonate with your audience and convey your message effectively.

The post 100 Website Copywriting Mistakes That’ll Make People Leave Your Site appeared first on Red Website Design.