‍On writing -

Editor Sir Harry Evans on how the use of the word 'activity' can be unnecessary:

''They enjoyed recreational activity'' vs. for proper abbreviation ''they liked games''.

Source: Do I Make Myself Clear? Why Writing Well Matters, p.153.

On the word 'activity'

When attached to other words the word activity can weaken, distract of confuscate meaning. It can also protect an individual or organisation or conceal intention. It is a broad and subjective word which each person who receives it can plaster meaning onto. For example think of the multiple meanings a phrase such as ''the state's activities'' or ''the activities of the state'' could have.

Evans (2017) says to ''chase out most abstract words in favor of specific words'' and that ''sentences should be full of brick, beds, houses, cars, cows, men, and women''.

Something to practice

Next time you use the word 'activity' in your writing attached to something else, consider if it is adding any meaning. If it isn't, try dropping it and see what the sentence looks like.

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