For your reference, Newswriting.com has compiled a list of overused phrases that can make your copy seem boring:
You know ‘em. You love ‘em. But can’t we live without ‘em? Groaners are those horrible, overused, hackneyed phrases that turn news copy into boring, “same old, same old†stuff.
Example:
Allegedly – NOBODY, not even cops and district attorneys, NOBODY in real life says “allegedly†in regular conversation. Do you tell your neighbor that someone allegedly broke into your house? Do you tell your buddy that the mayor allegedly took a bribe? Why then, would you say such a thing to your television neighbors?! If you’re worried about legal protections, try these alternatives: “Police say Jones broke into the storeâ€. “Prosecutors are claiming Smith embezzled the moneyâ€. “The U.S. Attorney says the Congressman took a bribe.â€
