Writer Mythbusting: Why Longer Words Aren’t Always Better

One of the oldest myths in copywriting is that longer words make your writing sound smarter. Many content creators fall into the trap of thinking that complex language builds authority or professionalism. But the truth is, shorter words can focus your message and increase your impact.

Clarity converts

As a content or copywriter, your job is to drive action. Whether that’s a click, a sign-up, or a sale, none of it happens if the reader has to stop and decipher your sentence. Clarity isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s essential for accessibility and building trust.

Words like utilise, facilitate or commence can add friction. Their simpler counterparts (use, help, start) get the job done more efficiently. Clear language builds trust, moves faster, and leaves less room for confusion. And in a digital landscape full of skim-readers, every second counts.

Smart writing is simple writing

There is a big difference between writing that is smart and writing that sounds smart. Trying to impress with big words can actually have the opposite effect. It can alienate your audience or make you sound like you are hiding behind corporate jargon.

People don’t want to feel like they are reading a legal document. They want to feel spoken to. The most effective copy feels personal and human. It should sound like something your reader might actually say out loud.

Data supports simplicity

Research shows that simpler language is perceived as more intelligent and trustworthy (Nielsen Group). In one study, readers rated writers who used plain English as more credible than those who used longer, more complex words. The same applies to copy. If you want your audience to take action, don’t make them work for it.

This is especially important for writing aimed at broad audiences. Whether you are selling skincare or SaaS, clear language means higher comprehension, better retention, and more conversions.

The research speaks for itself

Enhanced comprehension and knowledge retention

A study published in Collabra: Psychology found that readers who engaged with plain language summaries of psychological research, especially those with clear subheadings, reported significantly higher comprehensibility and retained more information compared to those who read traditional scientific abstracts.

Increased trust and credibility.

The same study also revealed that plain language summaries boosted readers' perceptions of the information's credibility and their ability to make informed decisions based on the content.

Improved understanding of health recommendations

 A randomized controlled trial reported in the Journal of Clinical Epidemiology demonstrated that adults who read health recommendations in plain language formats had an 18.9% higher correct response rate in understanding World Health Organization guidelines compared to those who read standard versions.

Preference across literacy levels

Research by Professor Chris Trudeau indicated that individuals, regardless of their literacy levels, prefer clear and straightforward language. This preference spans various sectors, including law, healthcare, and government communications.

These findings underscore the importance of using plain language in content and copywriting. It enhances clarity, builds trust, and effectively engages diverse audiences.

Word choices should serve the message

This isn’t a call to dumb things down. Your vocabulary is a toolbox. Every word you choose should earn its place by enhancing the message. There are times when a more specific or unusual word works better. But it should never be a default or a decoration.

Instead of reaching for a thesaurus, reach for your reader’s mindset. What are they looking for? What do they need to know? What would make them say “yes” faster?

Strip back to build back up

The best copy is usually the copy you’ve pared down. When in doubt, simplify. Choose shorter words. Break up long sentences. Cut the filler. Get to the point.

Common long words and their fixes:

You are not writing to show off. You are writing to connect. And connection comes from clarity.