25 Most Overused Words and Phrases Redux: The Alternatives

Our recent list of the 25 most overused words and phrases in press releases inspired a lot of feedback along with requests for alternatives.

We put out a call to several PR pros for worthy alternatives, and they all reported that it’s difficult to replace one overused word or phrase with a better one without any knowledge of the product or service they would be describing.

Nevertheless, the original list of 25 and their alternatives regularly appear in copy—presumably in cases when the author is well-versed in the subject at hand.

Our advice: Try to restrict your use of all adjectives and focus on the specific benefits of a product or service. That will force you to cut down on the “exclusives” and “best of breeds.”

25 Overused Words and Phrases     25 Alternatives


Announced                   Reported
Authentic                     Certified, verified
Award-winning            Prestigious
Best of breed               Rated best in its class by____
Cross platform            Integrated, compatible, universal
Cutting edge                Progressive
Exciting                       Compelling
Exclusive                     Matchless
Groundbreaking        New technology, new value proposition
Impact                        Influence
Improved                    Enhanced
Innovative                  Progressive
Launched                   Unveiled
Leader/leading           Ranked number one by____
Leverage                    Apply
Next generation        Updated, revised
New                           Fresh
Proactive                   Forward-looking
Proud to announce     Released
Revolutionary            Streamlined, more effective, more efficient
Solution                     Result
State of the art          Modern
Unprecedented         Unparalleled
Up and coming         On the rise, one to watch
Unique                     Distinct


Source: http://www.5wpr.net/?p=7172