Which of these are examples of buried verbs? Check all that apply. Blowing the budget Give consideration to Create a reduction in Pass with flying colors
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Buried verbs are expressions where the main verb is hidden within a noun phrase or a verb phrase, often resulting in wordiness. These expressions can often be simplified by directly using a verb in place of the noun or verb phrase.
Here are the examples and whether they contain buried verbs:
Blowing the budget – This is an example of a buried verb. The phrase “blowing” is actually a verb, but it is buried in the phrase “the budget,” which makes it a bit indirect. It could be simplified to just “overspending” or “exceeding the budget.”
Give consideration to – This is another example of a buried verb. The phrase contains the noun “consideration” where the verb “consider” should be used directly. The phrase could be simplified to “consider.”
Create a reduction in – This is a buried verb as well. The verb “create” is used with the noun “reduction,” which adds unnecessary complexity. It could be simplified to “reduce” instead.
Pass with flying colors – This phrase does not contain a buried verb. It is a figurative expression that means to succeed with distinction or do something exceptionally well. There is no indirectness or unnecessary noun usage here.
Correct answer:
Blowing the budget
Give consideration to
Create a reduction in
Explanation:
Buried verbs often make sentences longer and more complicated than they need to be. In clear and concise writing, using the verb directly makes the sentence easier to understand and more impactful. By identifying and replacing these buried verbs, you can enhance the clarity and efficiency of your writing. For example, instead of saying “give consideration to,” just say “consider.” Instead of “create a reduction in,” say “reduce.” These adjustments eliminate unnecessary words and streamline communication.
