Word Wise: Say What You Mean, Deepen Your Connections, and Get to the Point

by Will Jelbert

Supercharge your speech to get what you want out of every conversation with this fun and practical guide to verbal vividness.


An eye-opening guide on how we talk and write to one another, Word Wise explores 400+ of the most common cases of word trash (filler words, hyperbole, and abstractions) and word power (verbs of action, ear candy, onomatopoeia). Examining social media, the language of Donald Trump, AI language research, and heard-on-the-street lingo, communication expert Will Jelbert offers simple and concrete recommendations for improving your own vernacular.

With wit, practical applications, and a small dose of grammar, Word Wise will help you communicate more effectively at home, at work, and online.

Genres: Communication, Nonfiction, Self Help, Productivity, Social

224 pages, Paperback

Published October 20, 2020

About the author

Will Jelbert is the best-selling author of The Happiness Animal
and a series of children’s books. His books have been translated
into multiple languages worldwide. He is also a journalist
and a public speaker on connection and happiness. He grew
up on a fourth-generation family farm near Penzance in Cornwall,
England—yes, the Penzance that made the pirates famous. He has
lived and worked in England, India, France, Germany, and Australia,
and is now based in New York.

Reviews

[Moná · Rating 5 out of 5]

How does one express their thoughts without being winded or going off on a tangent? It is simple, say what you want to say and own it without apologies. Sounds easier than you think, but if less was short and to the point, we would have room to do other things with ourselves. One greatest outcome many would hope for is minimal misunderstandings. No one deserves to feel as if they weren't heard, correctly. Let's aim to do our best in building relationships using our words by being expressive and clearer.

In "Word Wise: Say What You Mean, Deepen Your Connections, and Get to the Point," author Will Jelbert teaches his readers to stop wasting breath in an attempt to state how you feel. The demonstrations of the overly used wordage prove a point that we're talking around unnecessary circles. Our interactions with each other are lacking substance that an author had finally written about it. Without using proper words in the form of expression, we fall short of building connections with each other. With the list of words that are fillers, or as Will said "waste/trash words," readers will begin to analyze their speech to make corrections.

I've learned a lot from this author. There are plenty of words mentioned in this book that I've used and I'm actively working towards correcting myself. Imagine texting, writing, or speaking to someone to only correct yourself as you go because you're learning to build connections with people. No more "beating around the bush," or wasting precious time being wordy, simply speak from your heart.

[Adam E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This self help book is divided into two parts.  Part I deals with words that we overuse and do not convey a clear message.  The author refers to these words as, "word trash" and it is recommended to reduce their usage by replacing them with words that are more clear, so others can better understand our message.
     Part II is about "word power", which are verbs of action, adverbs and adjectives that are specific.  These words can improve our communication in all forms ie. e-mails, texts, video conferences and even face to face interactions.
     In the Intro, Jelbert explains how social media has changed how we communicate.  Our language is filled with slang and other unclear words.  He writes how good communication is a key to having a nice family life and a successful professional life.  This book is written to help the readers make better word choices.  It will encourage the reader to analyze their own speech and to keep track of how often we use word trash in our daily interactions.
     One of the words that the author dislikes is the word, "should" and the negative version, "shouldn't".  They are overused, vague and do not do not hold much meaning. These words conceal the true message.  An example that is used is, "I should go to my friend's wedding."  This message is unclear.  Will they go to the wedding or not?  Do they want to go or not?
     Having better communication skills and conversations can strengthen our relationships and interactions in the workplace.  Words are powerful forms of expression, so we have to chose our words carefully.  A great book that will make readers think about the English language in a different way.

[Khyati Gautam · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Word Wise, @jelbertwill holds a mirror to the everyday language we toss around so casually, revealing how much of it is—quite bluntly—noise. This isn’t just another communication guide stuffed with rules and rigid prescriptions.

Instead, Jelbert walks us through the anatomy of speech and writing with humor, sharpness, and a refreshing humanity.

He introduces the dichotomy of word trash and word power: the former being fillers, vague abstractions, hyperbole that dilutes meaning; the latter, crisp verbs, sensory language, ear-pleasing words that build clarity and connection.

Across 400+ examples sourced from social media chatter, Trump-era tweets, emails, AI-generated phrasing, and everyday street lingo, he exposes how language can either invite intimacy or quietly erode it.

Each chapter nudges your mind to pause before speaking—almost like a linguistic mindfulness practice. The exercises, summaries, and real-life demonstrations make the book not just informative but actively transformative.

What surprised me most was how often I recognized myself in the “word trash” column—how quickly I reached for dramatic adjectives, soft maybe-words, or sprawling sentences.

Jelbert’s insistence on simplicity is not minimalism for its own sake, but a doorway to sincerity. A single precise word, he argues, can do more emotional heavy lifting than five embellished ones.

Word Wise is witty, accessible, and deeply practical. It urges us to speak with intention, write with impact, and choose words that build bridges instead of smoke. For anyone seeking to communicate with more power, presence, and honesty—this book might just change the way you converse.

[Mrs. Varela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Word Wise by Will Jelbert examines at how we communicate words to one another in our personal and professional relationships. The author shows readers how the words we speak have the power to connect and disconnect people from each other and the topic of discussion. Part One and Part Two of the book cover: Word Trash and Word Power. The chapters within each section are full of helpful details observed from a study the author performed of how people communicate with one another.

During Jelbert’s discussion of “word trash”, I was surprised to find how common words such as: just, never, always, should, and many others are unnecessary and can change the impression you make on the listener. The author says, “harmony happens when what you express aligns with what you feel and mean.” This remark urges the reader to consider making a personal audit of their vocabulary. He includes workplace expressions that are either outdated or overused. As a dual British-Australian, the author also gives readers a look at the difference between the meaning of a few common words we speak in America and other countries.

When we see how we communicate from the writer’s point of view, it shows us how we can improve our personal and professional relationships when we throw out our word trash and exchange it for what we really mean to say in simple words of truth. This is an enlightening and educational book. It is an essential guide to success in every discussion we have with others.

[Shoane Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

How to properly improve your Communication

What a interesting book to read I must say. This book helps you to supercharge your speech with powerful words and their meanings. This is a eye-opening guide to verbal vividness. A guide that is used on how we talk and write to one another. The author did a amazing job on detailing the "Word Wise" with details on how a person writes and speaks to each other in the world. Word wise means pertaining to, concerning, or regarding words verbally. I was shocked that this book talked about Donald Trump which was very interesting to read. I have never read a book from this author, however, I can honestly say that this author did a great job on writing this book. The whole point of reading “Word Wise” is so that you can become wise with the words that you choose, and refrain from engaging in “word trash”, which is a term that’s defined in “Word Wise”. In the end, “Word Wise” is a fantastic book! If you are looking for a fantastic book on how to be a better communicator - towards others and yourself - then “Word Wise” is a wonderful read! With the addition of words or phrases that will help bring us back to our friends and families, and most importantly to our good selves, we at least have a way to improve our communication. I learned alot after reading this book, and I highly recommend this book to be bought and read as well. Great Job to the author. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[Unleash The Knowledge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been searching for a book like this for a few years now and am so glad author, Will Jelbert has brought it to us!

Word Wise is an entertaining “pop-linguistics” book that will help you supercharge your speech to get what you want out of every conversation. Just off that sentence alone, I am “wow’d!”

Jelbert has spent the last 8 years researching the links between language, human connections, and happiness and has compacted tons of his findings in this book. His goal with the book and as a communication expert/consultant by career is to offer simple but sustainable recommendations for improving our own vernacular. I find this super interesting as I’ve had moments in my life where I want to explain something in a very detailed fashion but can’t put the words exactly together to share the same thoughts in my head to the person I am speaking to.

The book explores 400+ of the most common cases of word trash including filler words. As well as, word power regarding verbs of action and ear candy along with words/language on social media, Artificial Intelligence (AI) research, and heard-on-the-street lingo. Not to mention, he dives into the specific language of Donald Trump 😂

After reading this book, you will communicate far more effectively at home, work, and online!

I’d encourage you to check it out!

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Word Wise is a big recommend. In this day and age of distancing from each other, having a book giving us ideas on how to stop the disconnection and improve our connections is, in my opinion, a definite must. I found that many of the words and phrases that resulted in some of these disconnects are ones that I use almost daily. With the addition of words or phrases that will help bring us back to our friends and families, and most importantly to our good selves, we at least have a way to improve our communication. Will’s presentation of what words to choose and which ones to stay away from was written in such a way that it was not only informative, it was also enjoyable to read. What I found to be the biggest help in showing the disconnection were the many different examples that he used. I also found the listing of “happy”, strong, connecting words to be an added bonus. Like he states several times in the book, if we would choose some of these words more often, and truly mean them, our families and friends may be connections we want to keep and improve. Have the courage to pick this book up and then have the strength to make some of these changes in your vocabulary and see how your life and world are full of darn good beautiful rainbows!

[Paolo Amer Jriej · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never enjoyed any book on language as much as this

I really enjoyed reading this book, it was very easy to follow, well thought out, and very interesting. A lot of the topics covered prior to reading the book, I also wonder an try to male sense of.
I especially liked his cover on Corporate BS, because it was very relatable. I am both guilty of using those word trash in the office, at the same time on the receiving end of it. Sometimes after coming out of a meeting I wonder why everyone talks and sounds like Socrates ad yet I'm none the wiser what was really discussed. :)
I should probably be more conscious of my ego traps so I stop spreading word trash and communicate my thoughts more effectively.
I learned a lot from this book (didn't want to say "it made me *woke*“, I hate that word). This is a very easy book to recommend.

(apologies for typos, it's a pain in the @ss trying to write review straight from an ereader.)

[caleb kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me think twice about the words I use.

Word Wise has already made an impact on how I write and how I talk. Be direct and get to the point.

[Chris Mentillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Word Wise: Say What You Mean, Deepen Your Connections, and Get to the Point by Will Jelbert. Here is what I think:

Word Wise is a book that aims to help readers enhance their communication identities by eradicating word trash and enriching word power. Word trash refers to the filler words, hyperbole, and abstractions that often clutter our speech and writing, while word power refers to the verbs of action, ear candy, and onomatopoeia that make our language more explicit and efficacious.

The author, Will Jelbert, is a communication connoisseur who has explored the language of assorted conceptions, such as social media, Donald Trump, AI research, and street lingo. He suggests simple and substantial recommendations for improving the vernacular, with wit, practical applications, and a small dose of grammar.

I found this book to be very beneficial and enjoyable to read. It is not a typical grammar book that focuses on rules and peculiarities, but rather a compass that shows how we can use language to achieve our goals and correlate with others.

The author exploits many illustrations and exercises to illustrate his points and to contest the readers to devote what they discover. He also supplies synopses and key takeaways at the end of each chapter, which is beneficial for examining the main notions. The book is divided into four parts: word trash, word power, word wise in action, and word wise for life. Each part encircles a distinct characteristic of communication and presents tips and strategies for improving it.

One of the things I appreciated about this book is that it is not prescriptive or judgmental. The author does not tell us what words to use or avoid, but rather invites us to be more cognizant of how we use language and how it impacts ourselves and others. He confesses that there is no one right way to communicate, but rather various styles and inclinations that suit different situations and audiences. He also promotes us to experiment with different words and idioms and to have fun with language.

Overall, I think Word Wise is an extraordinary book for anyone who wants to improve their communication skills and express themselves more clearly and confidently. It is not only informative but also entertaining and engaging. It will make you think about how you use language and how you can make it more assertive and meaningful. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to say what they mean, exacerbate their connections, and get to the point.

[Pretty Peony Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book covers communication through the English language. The book is broken down into two parts. The first part covers the ways society has become poor word choice users, using slang and made-up words instead of using action words. The second part covers how to use words appropriately and powerfully to get the message across.

There is a lot to convey in this book. Most people don’t really think about the human communication process, or how we, as Americans, communicate with each other. Learning how to communicate properly starts in our education system. The words we learn and use daily are what forms our vocabulary. With the growth in social media, people tend to use shortened words or words to evoke sympathy without providing actual proof or sources. We’ve created a society where we assume we know what someone is saying or feeling, but we really don’t. The author reminds us that words are powerful and in order to communicate our message clearly without guesses, we need to know how to use the right words. He touches on writing and how some writings are better than others with just simply using action verbs instead of adverbs and adjectives. Speaking works in the same manner. He also touches on “beautiful words,” or words that create images and poetry in our heads. Some people are gifted with this type of communication, but we all can learn. I’d like to add that a person’s elocution plays a big part in communication as well.

I enjoyed reading this book. There were lots of information on word usage as well as examples from a variety of people on social media on how not to say something/correctly say something which I found interesting and beneficial. Overall, I think we can all benefit from a book like this, a book to remind us that we need to work on how to communicate effectively.

[Karen Wasilewski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who would ever think that one word or phrase could change the entire mood of a sentence? Word Wise: Say What You Mean will have you thinking about what you say before you say it.
The author, Will Jelbert, goes over how different words can create a disconnect with what we are trying to communicate when we speak to someone or in our writing. He discusses how our writing has evolved in good and bad ways. The author discusses which words and phrases create the disconnect and how we can change what we say in order to better connect us through language. When you use the words always and never, you are essentially lying to that person. For example, “you never listen to me!” What you really mean is “you didn’t listen to me yesterday when I told you I was going out tonight.” Do you see how taking out that one word changes the truth in the sentence?
The author really put into perspective how certain words can change the entire mood of what we write in order to communicate our points. Why not say what we mean? We, as humans, exaggerate what is trying to be communicated by the words we say, which then can cause miscommunication.
I highly recommend this book to anyone. But I especially recommend it to writers, teachers or even English majors. I find it very interesting how a phrase or word can change the whole mood of what you are trying to say. I would not recommend this book to anyone who loves Trump though, as the author seems to have an issue with him.

[Melinda Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recommend this book mainly for the A-Z of word trash in the index, although the sections are also pretty well organized (corporate BS is gold for anyone doing a re-write of the office) and made me laugh throughout. This book is equally at home in a pop-culture category for its observations on trending language habits, or humor, for the fun it makes of the things we say without questioning the meaning of the words. While its light hearted, it was also eye-opening, and I'd go as far as to say life-changing. THe other thing i liked is that it speaks of English globally- and one of the most interesting points was about the difference in meaning of the same words e.g. quite between the USA, UK, and Australia. There were some sharp observations about the English used in India..e.g. "revert on the same" and "thrice". Overall a book well worth holding onto, and picking up again and again if you're ever struggling to write an email.

[Jeanne Volkman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Word Wise: Say What You Mean, Deepen Your Connections, and Get to the Point
Jeanne Volkman
5.0 out of 5 starsVerified Purchase
Self Help/Educational
Reviewed in the United States on August 5, 2023
Word Wise: Say What You Mean by Will Jelbert
Is an educational guide to better our communication gaps. Words and phrases to engage us with a more meaningful connection. Communicate and write effectively giving importance to your message whether it be text,email, or verbally. Say what you mean and mean what you say. This book allows for improving written and verbal communication. Our word choices affect us in many ways, connecting or disconnecting. Communication or miscommunication this book educations the reader how a word or phrase can do just that. Yes, I highly recommend this book 5 stars. Learn how to effectively and efficiently communicate. Would be an excellent study guide in educational curriculum also. Word Wise is definitely worth your time.

[Ankit Rastogi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Word Wise by Will Jelbert completely changed how I think about words. It’s not just about speaking better, it’s about connecting better.

The author breaks down communication in such a real and funny way. He shows how the “word trash” we casually use (like fillers, adverbs, or vague phrases) actually disconnects us from people and how simple, honest, emotionally aware language can bring us closer.

Every page feels like a clarity check. You start noticing the words you use, the ones you hide behind, and the ones that build real trust.

My favorite line?

The road to hell is paved with adverbs, but it’s also paved with should, never, always, and crappy conversations.

It’s practical, relatable, and easy to apply in daily life whether you are trying to improve your relationships, your self-talk, or your communication at work.

Will Jelbert really is like the Marie Kondo of language helping you declutter your words so they finally mean what you feel.

[Booklyreads (suruchi) · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Even after reading lots of communication books, I realized my words were often vague, and my conversations weren’t really connecting. And I regret not having this book to help me correct this.

✨Word Wise is the one book which teaches that it’s the specific words, little details, and exact phrasing that make a conversation truly impactful. Words like now, here, and enough don’t just fill space, they improve communication and help you connect with people deeply.

✨It shows how being specific with words, using the simplest sentences without decorating them with fancy words can actually boosts your confidence in communication and helps you connect with people deeply.

✨If you want to master your communication skills, speak with clarity, and make every conversation meaningful, this book is a must-read!

[Braintracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A huge subject distilled into a remarkably small package - but effectively done. Although that said i probably will avoid using the word "huge" after the author's criticism of it. I was a little concerned by one of the testimonials that alluded to the fact that we were all doomed but the point was, the only way we are to avoid doom is through conversation. Ok so I didn't agree with all the "word trash" but I did with at least 90% and that last 10% may just be my own stubborness to admit it's a bad habit. Overall this was a solid read. One worth recommending. Though I won't be lending out my copy as it's useful to use the A-Z almost daily. More useful than a dictionary, which is online now anyway. This is the language equivalent of a Lonely Planet Guide to English, but with humor.

[Endowed · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Jean-Paul Sarte quote at the start of the book was enough to pique my interest, and then the short, sharp chapters kept me invested. Couple of criticisms: a) i found the subtitle offputting as it makes it sound too self-helpy. This is a lot more fun (but with serious points) than a self-help book. b) There are a lot of actual stats to back up what the author is saying and i liked that but would be good to spend more time on the "happiness words" research -- that was worth exploring in at least one more chapter but overall there was enough to explain the topic, and well. c) the cover felt a bit flimsy, but the contents were anything but. This book would be better with hardcover edition. Otherwise, it was a very rewarding read and one that did make me laugh often.

[Handy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lot of fun made of corporate jargon "tee up a meeting" - a "higher level" one -- "harness and leverage the sweet spot"-- the author recommends, and for good reason that we replace euphemism and vagueness with specifics that mean a lot more to us workers, and make us feel more connected at work. I agree with most of the points, and part II was a lot better than i thought it would be. Rather than the "untranslatables" section being included for novelty value only, it turned out to be surprisingly meaningful. I will be taking this book with me on vacation to test out some more of the word power in September, and may update the review then, but for now this was one of the best books I've read in a long while.

[Daniela Vega · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Word Wise" is a fantastic book that helps readers to enter the world of words in an easy way, offering the best advice that can improve our communication with other people.

The author has a writing style that will hook you, the information is concise and provides us with the necessary tools that we can put into practice on a daily basis.

The many strategies make this book a valuable resource for anyone looking to communicate more effectively in personal and professional settings. I’m sure that once you finish reading it, you will have learned to improve your speech and interactions and achieve better results in each conversation.

[Jean · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have mixed feelings about this book. It came on strong and I looked forward to each new word the author introduced, such as the word "definitely" in that "We use it with the intention of bolstering what we say because our fear is that what we say isn't enough to stand naked." And whoa, every time I hear "let me be honest with you" I cringe at all the pre-honest words they spoke. Stop it!
Later, there are workplace words that almost brought on nightmares, and words that bring specificity were ho-hum. Throughout the book the author's humor is the glue that held it all together.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not a long read, but a fun one. Didn't realize a book about words would be funny, but it did make me a laugh, especially the chapter about corporate BS haha. Another plus was the index of Word Trash and Word Power at the back, which i for sure will refer back to as an A-Z. Very good advice on the use of "willing" "speak", and avoiding the words "talk" and "just" "should" and "always". I found some of the word trash triggering, and while i was a bit annoyed at times, overall this was a fantastic read, and a book i will not be putting away for long.

[Abigail Miles · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had a lot of good take-aways. A lot of words and phrases that I do catch myself using, and that are good to be pointed out. But there were also a good number of chapters that didn't feel as applicable to me (like ones surrounding corporate lingo) or some that I didn't really agree with as much. So it was okay. But thinking more deeply about the language you use is a good thought, in principle.

[Christian Dennison · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first I thought this book was pure fun, but it turned out to be a D&M read, one that did make me laugh, but also think about the things i say without thinking. I've already cut out a few of the trash words and seems to be helping me with my comms at work. TIme will tell, but so far, fresh after reading, I'm very glad i put in the three or four hours it took to read this. Pretty much the same amount of time as a Lord of the Rings movie.

[Chelsea · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think everyone should read this book to strengthen their speech and writing. He focuses on word trash which will help you eliminate unnecessary words from both writing and speaking to deliver more effective and concise communication. The only reason I gave it a three is because it did feel slightly like an English class and I zoned out a little bit during some parts.

The part about corporate jargon is spot on so that was enjoyable!

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic read! With it being full of interesting research and guidance, you're sure to learn quite a lot about communication which you can apply to your own life to, as stated, improve your vernacular. This is an easy, enjoyable read, and I flew through this out of pure interest. I highly recommend this book! 5/5!

[Alex Doss · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book had me examining all of my communication and helped me to choose my words so that I can connect better with the people I am speaking with. I will say the regular Trump tweet bashing detracts from an otherwise fantastic book. If you are looking to connect more with people and use your words to say what you actually mean, I cannot recommend this book enough.

[Calin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has raised mixed feelings with me; on one side the first half I felt a lot of anger coming from the author through the words and language used and made reading it somehow a frustrating experience; I enjoyed and I’m grateful for sticking for the second part.

[Davy Luscombe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will has created a very handy, guide that's helped me realise how much indirect language is in play and is regularly obfuscating our meanings and conversations. An enlightening read!

[Power In Books · Rating 1 out of 5]

Garbage Book