2.4 The Importance of Verbs

Why are verbs described as the "engine" of a sentence?

They drive action and meaning

Which sentence uses the strongest verb construction?

A. The report was written by the intern.
B. Writing the report took time.
C. The intern wrote the report.
D. The writing of the report was completed.

The intern wrote the report.

Which of the following is a nominalization?

A. Decide
B. Decision
C. Decides
D. Deciding

Decision

Why should writers avoid "to be" verbs when possible?

They usually weaken sentences

Which revision best improves verb strength?

Original: She made a recommendation.

A. She was making a recommendation.
B. A recommendation was made by her.
C. She recommended.
D. She had a recommendation.

She recommended

Passive voice always makes writing unclear. T / F

False

Strong verbs help reduce wordiness. T / F

true

Gerunds and infinitives usually function as the main verb in a sentence. T / F

False

Using descriptive verbs improves precision. T / F

True

List two bland verbs writers should avoid.

Any two:

• be (is, are, was)

• get

• do

• have

• make

What is a nominalization?

A nominalization is a verb that has been turned into an abstract noun, often weakening the sentence.

Example:

• “The implementation of the plan” → “The team implemented the plan”

Rewrite this sentence using a stronger verb:

The team made a plan.

The team planned

Revise the sentence to improve verb strength and clarity:

The inspection of the equipment was done by the technician.

The technician inspected the equipment.

In one sentence, explain why verb choice is especially important in technical communication.

Strong verb choice is important because it improves clarity, efficiency, and precision for readers who need information quickly.