What Are the "Weenie" Verbs?
            The following verbs are the weenie verbs.  When overused, they tend to make writing dull and lifeless.  There is nothing particularly wrong with these weenie verbs.  We use them all the time when we speak.  However, when we speak, we can use facial expressions, gestures, and other non-verbal cues to convey more depth and precision in the message that we try to convey.  In writing, we don't have the luxury of those non-verbal cues; therefore, we should select verbs and other words that will convey our precise meanings.  If we do not use precise words, we run the risk of writing ambiguous ideas that may have multiple interpretations.  We also risk losing our readers or boring them.
 

To BE	To HAVE
Any form of the linking verb "to be" may indicate flat, lifeless writing:  am  is  are  been  be  being  was  were	The verb "to have" is a weenie when it is the main verb of a sentence, as in "My desk has a lamp on it."  However, these verbs are absolutely necessary when used as helping verbs.  have  has  had  having
To GO	To GET
The verb "to go" is weenie because it usually is neither precise nor descriptive.  go   went   gone   going	The verb "to get" is weenie because it also has so many interpretations.  get  got  gotten  getting
To COME	To TELL
Using this verb more than once can make writing dull. come came coming	Using this verb more than once can make writing monotonous. tell told telling

People rely on these weenies much too often, making their writing flat and dull.  Instead, writers should try to find more precise verbs to describe the actions of their subjects.  But how can writer's avoid them?  Click HERE!