How to Avoid Repetitive Words and Phrases in Fiction Writing

Repetitive words and phrases can make your fiction writing feel monotonous and uninteresting to readers. Here are some tips on how to avoid them:

1. Use a thesaurus: A thesaurus can help you find synonyms for words you tend to use repeatedly. However, be cautious not to overuse obscure or overly complex words that can sound unnatural.

2. Vary sentence structure: Repetition is not only about using the same words, but also about using the same sentence structures. Mix it up by using short and long sentences and varying the order of clauses.

3. Use pronouns: If you find yourself using the same noun over and over again, consider using a pronoun instead. For example, instead of saying "John walked to the store," you could say "He walked to the store."

4. Avoid overused phrases: Certain phrases have become cliches through overuse in fiction writing. Examples include "hearts pounding," "eyes widening," and "breath catching." Consider finding more unique ways to convey the same idea.

5. Read aloud: Reading your writing aloud can help you catch repetitive words and phrases that you might not notice when reading silently.

6. Edit: Once you've finished writing, go back and edit with an eye toward eliminating repetition. You can also ask a trusted friend or beta reader to read your work and point out any repetitive language they notice.