As AI writing tools like ChatGPT become more widespread, so do tools designed to detect AI-generated content. If you’re a content writer, editor, or student worried about tripping these detectors, you’ve probably asked: Which words should I remove to pass AI detectors?
The answer lies in recognizing and editing the telltale language patterns that AI often overuses.
Why AI Detectors Flag Your Text
Even if you write content from scratch, AI detectors might still flag your work. Why? Because large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT tend to use certain vague, formal, and overly polished words and phrases. These create a mechanical tone that AI detectors recognize as artificial.
You’ve likely seen it before:
“In the realm of innovation, embracing a transformative approach plays a pivotal role in effectively conveying optimized digital strategies.”
Sound familiar? That’s because this is AI-speak in action.
Let’s break down how to avoid it.
1. Watch Out for These Buzzwords
AI-generated text is filled with words that sound fancy but lack human nuance. Detectors notice these patterns. Here’s what to look out for:
🚫 Adjectives to Avoid
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Exceptional
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Innovative
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Crucial
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Pivotal
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Seamless
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Transformative
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Cutting-edge
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Ever-evolving
These words make your content feel like a press release from a robot.
🚫 Verbs That Sound Artificial
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Embark
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Foster
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Leverage
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Facilitate
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Enhance
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Unlock
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Utilize
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Highlight
They’re often used in ways that sound generic or unnecessarily dramatic.
🚫 Nouns That Signal AI Writing
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Landscape
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Realm
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Endeavor
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Optimization
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Integration
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Transformation
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Paradigm
These words are popular with AI tools because they sound smart. But overuse = red flag.
2. Don’t Start Your Articles Like This
Avoid AI-style intros like:
“In today’s fast-paced digital landscape…”
“As the world continues to evolve, it is crucial to…”
These are classic LLM templates. They show up in thousands of AI-generated articles and immediately raise suspicion.
Instead, start with a personal insight, a strong fact, or a question that a human might genuinely ask. Make your opening natural and unforced.
3. Remove Redundant Adverbs and Gerunds
Words like exceptionally, undoubtedly, consequently, accordingly, and ultimately make sentences sound puffed up.
AI detectors associate these with padding—unnecessary fluff used to sound more “academic” or “intelligent.”
So instead of:
“This tool is undoubtedly a pivotal asset in enhancing content generation.”
Try:
“This tool helps create better content.”
Human writing tends to be more direct and clear.
4. Edit Monotonous Structures
Another giveaway is predictable formatting:
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Long intro
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3 subheadings with repeated phrasing
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A formal wrap-up with “in conclusion…”
While this structure isn’t inherently bad, it’s AI’s go-to. Mix it up. Use short sections. Vary sentence length. Add dialogue or personal experience. Keep it human.
5. Avoid the “Parrot Style” of Writing
As shown in the meme-style image of the parrot you shared, AI often mimics a specific tone:
“In the pursuit of crafting a fast-paced, illuminating journey through the ever-evolving landscape…”
This sounds smart but says little. AI-generated writing often focuses more on sounding impressive than providing substance.
Don’t just replace the words—replace the style. Show, don’t just tell.
So… Which Words to Remove to Pass AI Detectors?
Here’s a cheat sheet:
| Category | Examples to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Adjectives | Pivotal, exceptional, ever-evolving, vital, transformative |
| Verbs | Embark, leverage, utilize, highlight, facilitate |
| Nouns | Innovation, endeavor, paradigm, tapestry, realm |
| Adverbs | Absolutely, definitely, exceptionally, undoubtedly, moreover |
Use simpler, more precise words. Write like you’re talking to a friend or colleague—not presenting a pitch deck.
Final Tips: Make Your Text Human Again
🧠 Add personal anecdotes
🎯 Be concrete, not abstract
✂️ Trim the fat — eliminate wordiness
🤝 Use natural transitions
💬 Imagine reading it aloud — would a human say this?
AI detectors aren’t perfect. But by editing strategically and writing with personality, you can bypass their pattern recognition systems and create something uniquely yours.
