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100+ AI Words to Avoid: The Complete List of ChatGPT Tells

Last updated: February 15, 2026

AI detectors don't just analyze sentence structure — they look for specific vocabulary patterns that large language models overuse. Words like "delve," "leverage," and "tapestry" appear 10-50x more frequently in AI text than in human writing. This page is your cheat sheet.

Why this matters for detection

AI detectors like GPTZero and Originality.ai maintain internal word frequency databases. When your text contains clusters of these "AI words," your detection score spikes — even if the rest of your writing is perfectly human.

The 20 "Power Words" AI Loves (And Humans Don't)

These are the biggest offenders. If your text contains 3+ of these in a single paragraph, it will almost certainly get flagged.

DelveDig into, explore, look at
LeverageUse, take advantage of
ComprehensiveComplete, full, thorough
RobustStrong, solid, reliable
NuancedSubtle, detailed, complex
PivotalKey, important, turning point
LandscapeScene, space, world
TapestryMix, blend, combination
ParadigmModel, approach, way of thinking
SynergyTeamwork, collaboration, combined effort
HolisticOverall, complete, big-picture
TransformativeGame-changing, major, significant
MultifacetedComplex, varied, many-sided
IntricateDetailed, complex, involved
RealmArea, field, world
BeaconExample, guide, signal
CornerstoneFoundation, base, key part
UnderscoreHighlight, emphasize, show
FosterEncourage, build, grow
EmbarkStart, begin, set out

Filler Phrases That Scream AI

These phrases add zero value and are dead giveaways. Most can be deleted entirely.

"It's important to note that"Note:
"In today's fast-paced world"(Just delete it)
"In the realm of"In
"It goes without saying"(Then don't say it)
"When it comes to"For, With
"At the end of the day"Ultimately (or just cut it)
"In order to"To
"A wide range of"Many, various
"On the other hand"But, However
"It is worth mentioning that"Also,
"From a holistic perspective"Overall
"Taking into account"Considering
"A dynamic interplay"The relationship between
"In the context of"For, In
"This serves as a testament to"This shows
"A myriad of"Many, lots of

Sentence Starters to Eliminate

AI loves to start sentences with transitional phrases. Humans just... start talking.

In conclusion,Furthermore,Moreover,Additionally,It is crucial toIt is essential toOne cannot overstateIt is imperative thatIn light ofWith that being said,That said,Needless to say,As we navigateAs we delve intoLet's explore

The fix: Delete the transition and start with the actual point. "Furthermore, the data shows..." becomes "The data shows..."

Conversational Tone Markers (The "Helpful Assistant" Voice)

These are the phrases that make text sound like a chatbot response rather than a human article.

"Absolutely!"Yes / Sure / Definitely
"Great question!"(Just answer the question)
"I'd be happy to help!"(Just help)
"That's a fantastic point"(Skip the flattery)
"Let me break this down"Here's how it works
"Here's the thing:"(Overused — just state the thing)
"Think of it like..."(Use sparingly, not every paragraph)
"The short answer is..."(Just give the answer)

The Complete 50-Word Swap Table

Bookmark this. Use it every time you edit AI-generated content.

AI Word ❌Human Alternative ✅
UtilizeUse
FacilitateHelp, enable
ImplementSet up, start, do
OptimizeImprove
StreamlineSimplify
EnhanceImprove, boost
EndeavorTry, attempt
CommenceStart, begin
AscertainFind out, confirm
ElucidateExplain, clarify
MeticulousCareful, detailed
CommendableGood, impressive
ParamountMost important, top
PlethoraLots, many, plenty
MyriadMany, countless
TrajectoryPath, direction, trend
SpectrumRange
FrameworkSystem, structure, plan
MethodologyMethod, approach
EcosystemSystem, environment, space
StakeholdersPeople involved, team, partners
ActionablePractical, useful
ScalableGrowable, expandable
SeamlessSmooth, easy
Cutting-edgeLatest, newest, advanced
Game-changerBig deal, breakthrough
Deep diveClose look, detailed review
UnpackExplain, break down
NavigateHandle, deal with, figure out
ResonateConnect, click, hit home
EmpowerHelp, enable, give power to
CuratePick, choose, collect
ElevateRaise, improve, boost
HarnessUse, tap into
SpearheadLead, drive, start
CultivateBuild, grow, develop
BolsterStrengthen, support
MitigateReduce, lessen, ease
ProliferationSpread, growth, increase
JuxtapositionContrast, comparison
UnderpinningBasis, foundation
ConfluenceMeeting point, combination
IterativeStep-by-step, repeated
GranularDetailed, specific
OverarchingMain, overall, big
UnprecedentedNever seen before, rare, new
DiscourseDiscussion, conversation, debate
EfficacyEffectiveness, how well it works
QuintessentialClassic, perfect example of
EnigmaMystery, puzzle

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