Strunk Practice Rules 16-22

Front

What is the principle of omitting needless words in writing?

Back

The principle emphasizes clarity and conciseness by removing unnecessary words that do not add value to the sentence.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence that omits needless words.

Back

"This subject remains controversial."

Front

What does it mean to keep related words together in a sentence?

Back

It means to place words that are closely related in meaning or function next to each other to enhance clarity.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence that keeps related words together.

Back

"In the old house, Frida lives with her grandmother."

Front

What should a writer do if they have written a series of loose sentences?

Back

They should recast enough of them to remove monotony, possibly replacing them with simple sentences or periodic sentences.

Front

What is the importance of placing emphatic words at the end of a sentence?

Back

It emphasizes the key point of the sentence, making it more impactful.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence that puts emphatic words at the end.

Back

"Because of his deteriorating bone tissue, the man’s legs could hardly hold him up."

Front

What does it mean to avoid vague, general, and abstract wording in writing?

Back

It means to use specific and concrete language that clearly conveys the intended message.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence that avoids vague wording.

Back

"Swiftly picking up her bag, Emily smiled and exited through the door."

Front

What is a loose sentence?

Back

A loose sentence is a sentence that begins with a main clause followed by additional phrases or clauses that add information.