When Adjectives Become Gushy
In Capon's Chapter 6 section on "gushy" words, she notes that "words that usually signal gush are many, including fabulous, tremendous, superb, unique, exquisite, gorgeous, fantastic, enchanting, incredible, glamourous and the like" (50).
What I would like to ask Capon is just how devoid of adjectives should news articles be?
If I want to discribe the enchanting music of a chorus, should I just say, "the chorus sang songs" instead of "the chorus's enchanting melody filled the sould with an inner peace"?
What sounds better to the ear is apparently not good for news writing. As upsetting as this is. I don't think I'm ready to let adjecives go.
Go ahead. Call me gushy.
Return to Dr. Jerz's News Writing Webpage.
Other Capon Entries by me.
You make a really good point here. I actually blogged about the same thing for my entry. I don't want to say that his words should be taken lightly here, but at the same time, I can't help but say that I don't think this rule applies to every article. Having said that, using "gushers" can sometimes add bias to a news article. But, like I said, you make a really good point here. It leaves me questioning his statement as well.