Nominalisation

A nominalisation is where you turn a verb (process, technique, emotion) into an abstract noun.

For example:

  • complete (verb) becomes completion (nominalisation ) 
  • introduce (verb) becomes introduction (nominalisation)
  • provide (verb) becomes provision (nominalisation)
  • fail (verb) becomes failure (nominalisation)
  • arrange (verb) becomes arrangement (nominalisation)

Like passive verbs, too many of them make writing very dull and heavy-going. Avoid them.

  • Instead of
    We had a discussion about the matter
    Say
    We discussed the matter
  • Instead of
    There will be a stoppage of trains by drivers
    Say
    Drivers will stop the trains
  • Instead of
    The implementation of the method has been done by a team
    Say
    A team has implemented the method