Six common words and phrases used by AI to avoid in your writing

Why shouldn’t you use common AI words?

Along with the growth and development of generative AI, detection tools have also been implemented to alert users when a text has been created by GPT tools. These programs use the same language learning models and pattern recognition as generative AI itself. Even if you’ve written something entirely without the help of AI, your readers might cast suspicion on your work if you find yourself using too many of these common AI terms!

List of words overused by AI

You might recognize some of this list of AI words and phrases as clichés that have long been recognized as such and have subsequently fallen out of favor. Keep an eye out for these common AI terms:

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Cutting-edge

Among overused corporate jargon, “cutting-edge” (or its more extreme sibling, “bleeding edge”) is a superlative that promises more than it can deliver. This and similar phrases aim to highlight innovation; however, it’s best to temper expectations, explain practical benefits and features, and avoid the risk of overpromising and underdelivering. Other synonyms can include:

• Disruptive
• Revolutionary
• Groundbreaking
• Breakthrough

In the…

Beginning a paragraph or essay with this seemingly versatile phrase can feel trite and meaningless. It’s often used to establish the environment of the modern world, and it often appears in articles describing evolving technology. Some other variations of this phrase include:

• In the constantly evolving age of interconnectivity
• In a fast-paced electronic landscape
• In the ever-shifting world
• In the constantly accelerating digital era

In conclusion

In school, we learn the basics and guidelines of the five-paragraph essay: the introduction, three arguments, and the conclusion. Using transitions between these points is key to building a strong foundation for your argument, and it may seem easy to begin your concluding paragraph with this phrase. Generative AI tends to think so, too, as it’s the most direct and straightforward way to begin your summarizing points. Reach for a more thoughtful transition as you write a truly captivating conclusion.

By…you can

Much AI-generated text ends with this sentence structure as a conclusion, which aims to empower the reader with the information they’ve just read. Some examples include:

• By understanding these rules, you can take the steps to lead a more fulfilled life.
• By staying vigilant against scams, you can browse the web without worry.
• By offering the aforementioned advice, you can equip yourself with the right tools to offer support.

At its core

This phrase is commonly used to distill an otherwise complex subject into its basic elements. It can appear in the beginning of an article, after an overview, or as a conclusion. Yet it can also seem jarring, at best, to be met with a simple explanation and condescending, at worst, for those who want to expand on a summary.

Foster/fostering

These words are typically used to describe an environment or work atmosphere that can benefit everyone involved, i.e. “fostering a collaborative workspace.” It is also commonly used in parallel to “nurturing,” as in “nurturing creativity,” and is associated with a bland positivity that theoretically leads to the progress of a meeting or project.

Remember, these common AI words and phrases are clichés for a reason and your writing will be stronger if you avoid them. Check out more writing tips to improve your vocabulary and find creative ways to express yourself, no matter what your writing project involves.