1. English Skills with Readings, 5E John Langan
Chapter Forty-Three
Effective Word Choice
English Skills with Readings, 5E John Langan

2. Slang Slang is usually out of place in formal writing.
Some drawbacks to using slang expressions:
They go out-of-date quickly.
They become tiresome if used excessively.
They may communicate clearly to some readers but not to others.

3. Examples: Slang After the game, we stuffed our faces at the dinner.
Someone ripped off Ken’s new Adidas.
After the game, we stuffed our faces at the dinner.
I finally told my parents to get off my case.

4. Clichés
A cliché is an expression that has been worn out through constant use.
Short but
sweet
Word to
the wise
Sigh of
relief
At a loss
for
words
Saw the
light
Work like
a dog

5. Pretentious Words
Trying to use fancy, elevated words rather than simple natural words may make your sentences sound stilted.
Pretentious: It was a splendid opportunity to get some slumber.
Simple: It was a good chance to get some sleep.