We’re facing a major problem. People are bouncing off pages, ignoring ads, and losing interest as dull, overused words flood the internet.

The internet is saturated with homepages boasting “innovative solutions” and “ultimate” guides dominating search results. This. Has. To. Stop. These words aren’t inherently bad, but to make something stand out – a headline, email subject, blog intro, or landing page – you need something more captivating than “important” or “success.” That’s why I’m giving you a list of 350+ more interesting words to use in your content to grab attention, earn clicks, and truly be innovative.

Power words table of contents

This word list is categorized by part of speech. You’ll find the overused or bland word followed by a plethora of alternatives, along with visual examples to demonstrate their impact. Enjoy!

• Power adjectives
  • More interesting words for: best in class | daunting | easy | effective | fast | great | important | innovative | ultimate | unique
• Power verbs
  • More interesting words for: boost | check out | engage | improve | provide | stop | succeed
• Empowering verbs
• Adverbs
• Nouns
  • More interesting words for: guide | sale | strategies
• Pain point power words
• Ideal state words
• Hook words

How to use these power words

• Focus on interest, not impressiveness: Resist the urge to replace a word just to sound smarter or more important. It’s a common copywriting trap. Trying too hard to write “wow” copy can backfire. Aim for subtle changes that are just distinctive enough to be memorable.
• Specificity is key: Often, the best word isn’t fancier or more exaggerated, but more specific. Instead of “seasoned experts,” consider “GRC-certified experts.”
• Don’t force it: Effective copy flows naturally. Use plain language as your foundation and sprinkle in interesting words like spices for flavor.

Adjectives: Power words for…

Best in class

As in, providing best-in-class solutions. This phrase is an empty buzzword that screams marketing jargon instead of showcasing your genuine pride and passion. “Cutting-edge” falls into the same category. Here are some truly powerful words to use instead:

Daunting

This word is a big no-no. I’ve encountered “daunting” countless times in how-to blog post introductions. While expressing empathy for your audience’s pain points is crucial, there are far better alternatives:

Easy

Let’s be real: “easy” is a perfectly valid marketing power word, so use it when appropriate. But if you’re looking for variations or more specific language, this list has you covered.

Effective

“Effective” isn’t inherently wrong, but it lacks punch in compelling marketing copy. Effective in what way? Compared to what? Be more specific or choose a more interesting word to make an impact.

Fast

In today’s world, instant gratification is key. “Fast” is a powerful word, especially for concise messaging. But for more creative copywriting, explore these alternatives:

Great

Unless you’re channeling your inner Jim Collins and talking about going “from good to great,” there are better words to use in your blog posts, emails, and ad copy. Consider more compelling synonyms for “great” or be more specific about what “great” actually achieves:

Important

The mistake with “important” isn’t overuse, but rather underuse. Most of what you write about is simply important – not crucial, extremely important, or imperative. Unnecessary emphasis can dilute your message.

However, there’s still a place for stronger synonyms. Reserve these for when they truly make sense, like in your elevator pitch:

Side note: For better introductions, ditch the “X is an important part of Y” formula in your blog posts. Try a personal anecdote, intriguing fact, joke, statistic, quote, humorous warning, or an analogy. The possibilities are endless.

Innovative

“Innovative” falls into the same category as “best in class” and “cutting edge.” It doesn’t mean your company isn’t innovative. But if you truly are, demonstrate it by using fresh language and imagery instead of relying on overused buzzwords.

Ultimate

What’s wrong with “ultimate?” In theory, nothing. It’s interesting, rolls off the tongue, and draws the reader in…until every guide and checklist you publish becomes the “ultimate” one. Remember, a great headline delivers on its promise without overselling. Use this word – and its synonyms below – sparingly, reserving them for truly comprehensive content.

Unique

If you’re tempted to use this word to describe your business, don’t. Instead, let unique words, images, and designs speak for themselves. But if you’re sharing truly unique tips or strategies and need a fresh alternative for ad headlines, try these:

More power adjectives

Here’s a bonus list of interesting descriptive words that came to mind while writing this post.

Verbs: Power words for…

Boost

“Boost” is definitely more engaging than “increase,” but it’s still everywhere. Sometimes, a less common (and therefore more interesting) word can be more impactful, even if it’s not as inherently exciting.

Check out

I’m guilty of overusing this one myself. It’s harmless and versatile, but here are some alternatives to add variety:

Engage

Marketing is all about engaging your audience. As someone who markets marketing, I constantly find myself overusing this word. Here are some alternatives:

Improve

This word isn’t overused, just bland. Think plain bagels, cheese pizza, vanilla ice cream. If you prefer something with a bit more flair, try these:

Provide

We often start our blog post introductions by telling readers what they’ll gain, as in, “In this post, we’re going to provide…” This means I’m constantly searching for alternative ways to say it. Here are a few:

Stop

“Stop” is surprisingly effective for marketing with emotion. It conveys urgency and a hint of panic (like in, “stop paying your landlord’s mortgage”) while empowering the reader. Use these “stop words” in Facebook ads, landing page headlines, email subjects, and more.

Succeed

“Succeed” is another easy fallback, especially in B2B marketing. Every business wants to succeed, right?

More empowering verbs

More power verbs

Power adverbs

Nouns: Power words for…..

Guide

Sale

Strategies

More interesting nouns

• Game-changer
• Solution
• Key
• Eliminate the guesswork
• Unfair advantage
• Relief
• Formula
• Not-so-secret weapon

Pain point power words

Here’s how your customers don’t want to feel

Ideal state power words

Hook words

• A hidden gem
• Challenge your assumptions
• Prepare to be amazed
• Don’t be so sure
• Finally, a solution
• Everything you know is wrong
• Hidden secrets revealed
• Why didn’t I know this sooner?

Want more power words?

If you’re looking for more creative ways to connect with your audience, you’re in the right place. At nexus-security, we’re passionate about the power of language…

• 120 of the Best Words & Phrases for Marketing
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• 7 Power Words to Test in Your Facebook Ads