Choosing Vivid Verbs

Some verbs don't say much.

The chef liked winning first place.

The verb liked doesn't show how the chef reacted, or what emotions were expressed. Vivid verbs create a stronger picture.

The chef hoisted his first place ribbon high and beamed for the photographers.

Avoid using an adverb to prop up a weak verb. Instead, select a vivid verb.

quickly went  ----->  tore

spoke loudly  ----->  screamed

drank noisily  ----->  slurped