Telling can be easy to spot, as there are plenty of verbs that indicate you’re not showing the action. Now, it’s key to note that it’s not the verbs themselves that determine whether you’re showing or telling, but how they are used. These words are just indicators as it’s truly about context.
With that said, here are 12 verbs (there are plenty more) that are commonly associated with telling rather than showing (as well as weaker writing):
- Walked: This verb is quite generic and doesn’t provide specific details about how a character moves or carries themselves. It fails to create a vivid visual image in the reader’s mind.
- Ran: Similar to “walked,” “ran” is a basic verb that lacks descriptive power. It doesn’t engage the reader’s senses or convey the character’s actions in a compelling way.
- Looked: “Looked” is a weak verb that often implies telling because it doesn’t specify how the character is observing their surroundings or other characters. It misses an opportunity to provide sensory details.
- Felt: “Felt” is a verb that directly states the character’s emotions or physical sensations instead of showing them through actions or descriptions. It bypasses the opportunity to engage the reader’s senses.
- Thought: While it’s essential to convey a character’s thoughts, relying solely on the verb “thought” can be telling. Instead, incorporating internal dialogue, vivid descriptions, or actions can show what the character is thinking.
- Knew: “Knew” directly states that a character possesses knowledge, which is telling. Rather than using this verb, it’s more effective to illustrate how the character gained that knowledge or how it affects their actions.
- Noticed: “Noticed” is a telling verb that signifies passive observation. Instead of telling the reader that a character noticed something, show their reaction, interest, or how it changes their perception.
- Remembered: Similar to “noticed,” “remembered” is a verb that implies passive reflection. Instead of telling the reader that a character remembered something, show their emotional response or the impact it has on their actions.
- Realized: “Realized” directly tells the reader that a character has come to a particular understanding or revelation. Instead, use actions, thoughts, or dialogue to reveal the character’s realization in a more engaging manner.
- Was/Is: While linking verbs like “was” or “is” have their place in writing, excessive use of them can lead to telling. They don’t provide dynamic action or description and can make sentences feel static.
- Understood: Like “knew” and “realized,” “understood” implies that the character comprehends something without delving into the process of how they came to that understanding.
- Wanted: While desires and motivations are crucial aspects of a character, using “wanted” alone can fall into the telling category by stating the character’s desires without exploring their actions or inner conflicts that arise from those desires.