Avoiding repetition in a text

Do you know how to use words like this, that, such, and so to avoid repeating words in a text? Enhance your knowledge with a lesson given below and the grammar explanation to guide you better.

Here are some examples showing different ways to avoid repetition in a text:

• The DNA of wolves was found to differ from that of domestic dogs, which accounts for their distinct behaviours.

• Located at a height of 3,200 meters, it is the only such hotel in the region.

• Some insects navigate without using their eyes, and we still don't fully understand how they manage to do so.

• An increasing number of people are switching to electric vehicles. The demand for eco-friendly transportation is...

Grammar explanation - Avoiding repetition in a text

We commonly use words like it, this/these, that/those, such, do so, as well as synonyms, to avoid repetition. This makes a text shorter, easier to read, and more engaging.

1. It, this, and that in texts

It, this/these, and that/those can all refer to something mentioned earlier in the text.

It is used to refer back to something previously discussed, with no special emphasis.

• I read the article you recommended. It was interesting but a bit too long.

This (or these) is more emphatic and signals something new or notable. This often indicates that more information will follow.

• A new policy has been proposed for public transportation. This could significantly reduce traffic congestion in the city.

That (or those) is also emphatic but often implies more distance, either emotionally or physically. We can use that to detach ourselves from an idea or opinion:

• The project failed due to poor management. That was a real disappointment.

Or, that/those can refer to something mentioned earlier in the text:

• Many beginners make the mistake of overwatering their plants. Such habits can harm the roots. (later in the text) Those damaged roots can be difficult to repair.

That/those is also used when referring to things further away in distance:

• Astronomers study celestial bodies millions of light-years away, believing that some of those distant planets might support life.

2. That and those meaning 'the one(s)'

In formal English, that and those can mean 'the one(s)' and are often followed by of to avoid repetition.

• Her research focused on the data of younger participants compared to that of older ones. (that = the data)

• Their performance exceeded those of other teams in the competition. (those = the performances)

Those who means 'the people who'.

• She was one of those who supported the new initiative.

• Those who are interested in attending should RSVP by next week.

3. Such meaning 'of this or that type'

In formal contexts, such refers back to a type previously mentioned.

• Some fish can detect changes in water pressure. Such abilities allow them to navigate deep waters. (such abilities = abilities of that type)

We use such before a/an + singular noun or before plural or uncountable nouns. It often appears after phrases like no, the only, the few, the first, etc.

• This museum is the only such facility in the region.

• The conference will be held monthly, with the first such event scheduled for May.

• 4. Do so

In formal English, do so means 'to behave or act in the way mentioned' and is used to avoid repeating the verb.

• The board recommended hiring more staff, but few companies did so.

• Participants who wish to withdraw from the study must notify us if they intend to do so.

5. Synonyms

A synonym is a word or phrase that has a similar meaning to another. We use synonyms to avoid repetition and make writing more engaging.

• Climate change is a growing concern globally. Immediate measures must be taken to address this critical issue.

Using synonyms also makes writing more dynamic and enjoyable.

• Owls rely on their keen sense of hearing to hunt. These nocturnal predators can detect even the faintest sounds.

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