English Pattern Reference

This page expands the English pattern packs into a browsable reference. It is generated from patterns/en-*.md, so the numbers, names, watch words, fire conditions, and examples mirror the source pattern files.

• Rewrite-capable patterns: 37
• Score/audit-only viral-hook patterns: 9
• Main selector: PATTERNS.md

The examples are illustrative editing cases, not verified accounts or recorded model results. Claims left vague by an input stay vague unless source evidence is supplied. Linked success and failure files are independent cases; failure files preserve intentional no-correction behavior.

Pattern Index

#	Type	Pattern	Source
1	rewrite	Undue Emphasis on Significance	en-content.md
2	rewrite	Undue Emphasis on Notability/Media	en-content.md
3	rewrite	Superficial -ing Analyses	en-content.md
4	rewrite	Promotional Language	en-content.md
5	rewrite	Vague Attributions	en-content.md
6	rewrite	Formulaic "Challenges and Prospects"	en-content.md
7	rewrite	AI Vocabulary Words	en-language.md
8	rewrite	Copula Avoidance ("serves as")	en-language.md
9	rewrite	Negative Parallelisms	en-language.md
10	rewrite	Rule of Three Overuse	en-language.md
11	rewrite	Elegant Variation (Synonym Cycling)	en-language.md
12	rewrite	False Ranges	en-language.md
32	rewrite	Comparison Adverb Overuse ("more" without target)	en-language.md
33	rewrite	Definitional-Metaphor Equation ("X is the architecture of Z")	en-language.md
34	rewrite	False Agency (Inanimate Actors)	en-language.md
13	rewrite	Em Dash Overuse	en-style.md
14	rewrite	Boldface Overuse	en-style.md
15	rewrite	Inline-Header Vertical Lists	en-style.md
16	rewrite	Title Case in Headings	en-style.md
17	rewrite	Emojis	en-style.md
18	rewrite	Curly Quotation Marks	en-style.md
37	rewrite	Colon Reveal / Plot-Twist Setup	en-style.md
19	rewrite	Collaborative Communication Artifacts	en-communication.md
20	rewrite	Knowledge-Cutoff Disclaimers	en-communication.md
21	rewrite	Sycophantic/Servile Tone	en-communication.md
29	rewrite	False Nuance (Retroactive Reframing)	en-communication.md
22	rewrite	Filler Phrases	en-filler.md
23	rewrite	Excessive Hedging	en-filler.md
24	rewrite	Generic Positive Conclusions	en-filler.md
31	rewrite	Conclusion Signal Words	en-filler.md
35	rewrite	Throat-Clearing Openers	en-filler.md
36	rewrite	Faux-Insight Setup	en-filler.md
25	rewrite	Metronomic Paragraph Structure	en-structure.md
26	rewrite	Passive Nominalization Chains	en-structure.md
27	rewrite	Zombie Nouns (Excessive Nominalization)	en-structure.md
28	rewrite	Stacked Subordinate Clauses	en-structure.md
30	rewrite	Rhetorical Question Openers	en-structure.md
VH-1	score/audit only	Shock Numbers as Hook	en-viral-hook.md
VH-2	score/audit only	Clickbait Mystery Close	en-viral-hook.md
VH-3	score/audit only	Source-Skipping Authority	en-viral-hook.md
VH-4	score/audit only	Breath-Optimized Short-Sentence Stacking	en-viral-hook.md
VH-5	score/audit only	Hyperbolic Engagement Lexicon	en-viral-hook.md
VH-6	score/audit only	Fake Statistic Citation	en-viral-hook.md
VH-7	score/audit only	Manufactured Authority Stacking	en-viral-hook.md
VH-8	score/audit only	Future-Self / Parasocial Promise	en-viral-hook.md
VH-9	score/audit only	Aphoristic Punchline / Standalone Declarative	en-viral-hook.md

Content Patterns

1. Undue Emphasis on Significance

• Source: en-content.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: significant milestone, pivotal moment, groundbreaking, transformative, paradigm shift, revolutionary, game-changing, unprecedented, landmark achievement, watershed moment, trailblazing, monumental
• Fire condition: 2+ emphasis words appear in the same paragraph, or a single word like "revolutionary" or "groundbreaking" applied to an ordinary product or event.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The company's new mobile app represents a groundbreaking paradigm shift in how users interact with grocery delivery services. This transformative, game-changing platform marks an unprecedented milestone in the retail industry.

Example after:

The company's new mobile app fundamentally changes how users interact with grocery delivery services. It marks a first for the retail industry.

2. Undue Emphasis on Notability/Media

• Source: en-content.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: garnered significant attention, widely recognized, has been featured in, attracted widespread interest, gained international acclaim, made headlines, captured the imagination of, has been praised by critics and audiences alike
• Fire condition: A claim of broad attention, coverage, or acclaim appears without a named publication, outlet, or specific figure.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

Her artwork has garnered significant attention from critics and audiences alike, and has been widely recognized as a defining voice of her generation. Her exhibitions have attracted widespread interest across the globe.

Example after:

Her artwork has drawn considerable attention from critics and audiences and is widely recognized as a defining voice of her generation. Her exhibitions have drawn interest worldwide.

Example note: The input names no sources. The rewrite keeps its recognition claims; checking them is a separate task.

3. Superficial -ing Analyses

• Source: en-content.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: showcasing, highlighting, underscoring, demonstrating, illustrating, reflecting, signaling, exemplifying, reinforcing, embodying, encapsulating
• Fire condition: 3+ present-participle phrases chained in a single sentence or consecutive clauses with no concrete causal explanation.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The festival brings together artists from 30 countries, showcasing the diversity of contemporary dance, highlighting the importance of cross-cultural dialogue, and underscoring the role of the arts in fostering global understanding.

Example after:

The festival brings together artists from 30 countries and shows the diversity of contemporary dance. It highlights the importance of cross-cultural dialogue and the role of the arts in building global understanding.

4. Promotional Language

• Source: en-content.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: stunning, breathtaking, world-class, gem of, hidden treasure, crown jewel, vibrant, nestled in, boasts, a must-visit, unparalleled, exquisite, awe-inspiring, picturesque
• Fire condition: 2+ promotional adjectives modifying the same subject, or a single strong superlative ("world-class", "breathtaking", "must-visit") used as descriptive prose rather than quoted marketing copy.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

Nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany, this stunning village boasts breathtaking views, world-class cuisine, and an exquisite charm that makes it a must-visit hidden gem for any discerning traveler.

Example after:

This beautiful village in the rolling hills of Tuscany has striking views, exceptional cuisine, and a charm that makes it well worth a visit for discerning travelers.

5. Vague Attributions

• Source: en-content.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: experts say, many believe, it is widely accepted, studies show, research indicates, critics argue, according to sources, observers note, analysts predict, some suggest, it is generally agreed
• Fire condition: Any claim of authority appears with an unspecified source rather than a named one (person, institution, publication, or study with date).
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

Experts say that remote work is here to stay. Studies show that productivity increases when employees work from home, and many believe this trend will reshape the commercial real estate market.

Example after:

Experts say remote work is here to stay. Studies show productivity increases when employees work from home, and many believe the trend will reshape commercial real estate.

Example note: The sources are still unnamed. A style edit cannot supply a citation that the input does not contain.

6. Formulaic "Challenges and Prospects"

• Source: en-content.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: despite these challenges, remains to be seen, poised for growth, at a crossroads, on the cusp of, only time will tell, the road ahead, faces significant hurdles but, with continued effort, looking forward
• Fire condition: A paragraph or conclusion contains both a generic challenge phrase AND a generic optimism phrase — the classic two-step pattern of acknowledging problems then pivoting to vague hope.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

Despite these challenges, the industry remains poised for significant growth. While it remains to be seen how regulations will evolve, the sector stands at a crossroads, and with continued innovation and collaboration, a bright future lies ahead.

Example after:

The industry faces these challenges but remains set for substantial growth. How regulations will change is still unclear. The sector faces an important choice, and its future looks bright with continued innovation and collaboration.

Language Patterns

7. AI Vocabulary Words

• Source: en-language.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: delve, tapestry, landscape, multifaceted, comprehensive, pivotal, testament, intricate, nuanced, leverage, foster, crucial, moreover, furthermore, realm, robust, facilitate, endeavor, resonate, underscore, embark, myriad, paramount, encompass, holistic, synergy, elucidate, culminate, juxtapose, burgeoning
• Fire condition: 3+ watch words appear in one paragraph.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

This comprehensive report delves into the multifaceted landscape of renewable energy, leveraging nuanced insights to foster a robust understanding. Moreover, the intricate tapestry of stakeholder interests underscores the pivotal role of policy in this crucial endeavor.

Example after:

This report examines the many aspects of renewable energy in depth, using careful distinctions to build a sound understanding. The complex mix of stakeholder interests shows how important policy is to this work.

8. Copula Avoidance ("serves as")

• Source: en-language.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: serves as, acts as, functions as, stands as, operates as, works as, remains as, exists as
• Fire condition: 2+ copula-avoidance constructions in the same paragraph, or a single instance where "is" would be shorter and clearer.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The library serves as a vital community hub, functioning as both an educational resource and a social gathering space. It also acts as a testament to the city's commitment to public access.

Example after:

The library is an essential community hub, an educational resource, and a social gathering space. It also shows the city's commitment to public access.

9. Negative Parallelisms

• Source: en-language.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: not just...but, not merely...but also, not only...but, goes beyond...to, more than just...it is, transcends...to become
• Fire condition: 2+ "not X but Y" structures in the same document, or a single instance where the positive statement alone would be simpler and equally clear.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

This initiative is not just a policy change but a fundamental reimagining of urban planning. It goes beyond mere infrastructure investment to become a statement about the kind of city residents want to live in.

Example after:

This initiative changes policy and fundamentally rethinks urban planning. Its infrastructure investment expresses the kind of city residents want to live in.

10. Rule of Three Overuse

• Source: en-language.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: Structural pattern; inspect the fire condition rather than a fixed vocabulary list.
• Fire condition: 3-item lists appear 2+ times in the same document, or a triple-part sentence where the count is arbitrary and another count would be equally valid.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The program fosters creativity, innovation, and collaboration. Participants gain inspiration, practical skills, and lasting connections. The result is a more dynamic, inclusive, and forward-thinking community.

Example after:

The program encourages creativity and innovation. It also encourages collaboration. Participants gain inspiration and practical skills, along with lasting connections. The community becomes more dynamic and inclusive. It also becomes more forward-thinking.

11. Elegant Variation (Synonym Cycling)

• Source: en-language.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: Structural pattern; inspect the fire condition rather than a fixed vocabulary list.
• Fire condition: The same entity referred to by 3+ different names or synonyms within a single paragraph.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

Tokyo is the most populous city in Japan. The metropolis is known for its blend of tradition and modernity. The urban center attracts millions of tourists each year. The Japanese capital continues to grow.

Example after:

Tokyo is Japan's capital and most populous city. It is known for its blend of tradition and modernity, attracts millions of tourists each year, and continues to grow.

12. False Ranges

• Source: en-language.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: from X to Y, ranging from...to, spanning...to, everything from...to, whether...or
• Fire condition: A "from X to Y" construction appears where the two poles do not meaningfully bound a spectrum — the range is decorative rather than informative.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The festival offers something for everyone, from young children to seasoned professionals, spanning everything from traditional folk music to cutting-edge electronic performances.

Example after:

The festival offers something for everyone, including young children and seasoned professionals. Performances include traditional folk music and cutting-edge electronic music.

32. Comparison Adverb Overuse ("more" without target)

• Source: en-language.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: more specific, more concrete, more efficient, more effective, more comprehensive, more robust, more seamless, more meaningful, more strategic, more impactful, more nuanced, more proactive, more sustainable, more scalable
• Fire condition: 2+ "more + adjective/adverb" comparative phrases appear in one document without a clear target, baseline, or metric. A single instance can fire when it appears in the same paragraph as other formal AI markers such as "comprehensive", "strategic", "framework", "stakeholder", or "in-depth".
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The initiative will enable more specific milestones, more efficient resource allocation, and more comprehensive stakeholder alignment. Moving forward, the team should develop a more strategic framework for more meaningful collaboration.

Example after:

The initiative will enable more specific milestones, more efficient resource allocation, and more comprehensive stakeholder alignment. The team should develop a more strategic plan for more meaningful collaboration.

Example note: The input promises to enable improvements; it does not promise that those improvements will occur. Keep "will enable" for all three items and "should develop" for the recommendation. The comparisons remain vague because the input gives no baseline.

33. Definitional-Metaphor Equation ("X is the architecture of Z")

• Source: en-language.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern

Watch words: is the signature of, is the shape of, is the language of, is the currency of, is the architecture of, is the backbone of, is the engine of, is the heartbeat of, is the DNA of, is the cornerstone of, is the lifeblood of

Fire condition: 2+ copula sentences of the form "X is the [abstract noun] of Z" appear in the same document/section without concrete support for the equation. A single instance is an audit hint only: do not rewrite unless the same inflated metaphor pattern recurs.

• Example files: failure · success Exclusion: Literal or technical definitions ("water is the universal solvent"), established idioms and textbook metaphors ("the mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell"), factual "X is the capital/center of Z" statements, and genuine equivalences backed by concrete support in the same passage are not this pattern.

Disambiguation from #8 (Copula Avoidance): #8 fires on text that avoids "is" ("serves as", "functions as" → rewrite to "is"). #33 is the opposite: the sentence already uses "is", but inflates it into an "is the [abstract noun] of [abstraction]" metaphor-equation to manufacture profundity. Do not conflate them — #8 wants the copula restored, #33 wants the empty metaphor-equation dismantled.

Semantic Risk: MEDIUM Preservation Note: The metaphor sometimes points at a real claim ("trust depends on consistent behavior"); when rewriting, recover and state that underlying claim concretely rather than deleting it, so a genuine point is not lost along with the inflated framing.

Problem: AI manufactures depth by equating one abstraction with another through a borrowed structural noun — "signature", "architecture", "currency". The sentence sounds like an insight but asserts nothing testable; swapping the abstract noun ("is the language of" → "is the currency of") barely changes the meaning, which exposes the equation as decorative rather than substantive.

Before:

Symmetry is the architecture of trust. Cringe is the visible signature of moving along a gradient you chose. Consistency is the currency of every relationship that lasts.

After:

Symmetry underpins trust. Cringe visibly marks movement along a gradient you chose. Every lasting relationship depends on consistency.

Example note: The input does not explain its metaphors. This edit stays close to them instead of supplying a new causal theory.

---

Style Patterns

34. False Agency (Inanimate Actors)

• Source: en-language.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern

Watch words: the data tells us, the numbers speak, the decision emerged, the culture shifted, the conversation moved toward, the market rewards, the market decides, the complaint becomes, the strategy demands, this unlocks, the moment calls for, the work speaks for itself

Fire condition: 2+ sentences in the same document where an inanimate subject performs a human action (deciding, telling, rewarding, demanding, moving a discussion) and the human actor is recoverable from context but never named. A single instance is an audit hint only.

Exclusion:

• Academic/report citation conventions ("the study finds", "the paper argues", "the data show a correlation") — standard metonymy for the authors.
• Genuine agentless processes ("the temperature rose", "the deadline passed", "the market crashed" as an aggregate event).
• Deliberate literary personification sustained as a device, and established idioms.
• Software/system subjects doing what software actually does ("the linter flags", "the pipeline retries").

Disambiguation from #26/#27 (Passive/Nominalization): passive voice hides the actor by grammar ("the decision was made"); false agency hides the actor by promoting an object to actor ("the decision emerged"). Both leave the same question — who did it — but this pattern fires on active-voice sentences, which passive detectors miss.

Semantic Risk: HIGH Preservation Note: Never invent an actor the source does not support. If the text implies the actor (a team, the author, "you"), name that; if no actor is recoverable, restructure around what is actually known ("someone on the team killed the project" → only if the source says so; otherwise "the project was killed within days" may have to survive as-is). Fabricating agency is a meaning violation, not a style fix.

Problem: AI systematically promotes abstractions into actors — decisions emerge, cultures shift, data tells, markets reward — because it lets the prose sound analytical while never committing to who did what. Human writing tends to name the person, or at least stand somewhere ("we", "you", "the team"). The tell is not one sentence but the accumulation: a paragraph where every event happens with no human in it.

Before:

The feedback loop rewarded speed over quality, so the culture shifted within a quarter. Decisions emerged from Slack threads rather than meetings, and the roadmap bent toward whatever the metrics demanded.

After:

The feedback loop favored speed over quality, so the culture changed within a quarter. Decisions were made in Slack threads rather than meetings, and the roadmap followed the metrics.

Example note: The input does not identify the decision-makers. Passive wording preserves that limit; a full agency repair needs source context.

13. Em Dash Overuse

• Source: en-style.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: Structural pattern; inspect the fire condition rather than a fixed vocabulary list.
• Fire condition: 1+ em dash appears in each of 2+ consecutive paragraphs, or the document-level em-dash count is high relative to sentence count.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The pilot launched in March — a date chosen to align with the grant cycle.

The first cohort included twelve clinics — each one serving a different rural county.

Early feedback was positive — though the team still needs retention data before expanding.

Example after:

The pilot launched in March, a date chosen to align with the grant cycle.

The first cohort included twelve clinics, each serving a different rural county.

Early feedback was positive. The team still needs retention data before expanding.

14. Boldface Overuse

• Source: en-style.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: Structural pattern; inspect the fire condition rather than a fixed vocabulary list.
• Fire condition: 5+ bolded terms in a single document, or 3+ in a single paragraph.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

Machine learning is a subset of artificial intelligence that uses statistical methods to enable computers to learn from data. The most common approaches include supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning.

Example after:

Machine learning is a subset of artificial intelligence that uses statistical methods to enable computers to learn from data. The most common approaches include supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning.

15. Inline-Header Vertical Lists

• Source: en-style.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: Structural pattern; inspect the fire condition rather than a fixed vocabulary list.
• Fire condition: 2+ "Label: explanation" bullets in the same list.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

• Accessibility: The platform supports screen readers and keyboard navigation.
• Performance: Load times have been reduced by 40%.
• Security: All data is encrypted end-to-end.

Example after:

The platform supports screen readers and keyboard navigation. Load times have been reduced by 40%, and all data is encrypted end-to-end.

16. Title Case in Headings

• Source: en-style.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: Structural pattern; inspect the fire condition rather than a fixed vocabulary list.
• Fire condition: 3+ content words (non-articles, non-prepositions) capitalized in the same heading when sentence case would be correct.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The Impact Of Remote Work On Urban Development And Housing Markets

Example after:

The impact of remote work on urban development and housing markets

17. Emojis

• Source: en-style.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: emojis used as section markers or emphasis
• Fire condition: Any emoji in professional, academic, or editorial text.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

💤 Here are five tips for better sleep:

1. Set a consistent bedtime
2. Avoid screens before bed
3. Keep your room cool
4. Limit caffeine after noon
5. Try reading instead of scrolling

Example after:

Here are five tips for better sleep:

1. Set a consistent bedtime
2. Avoid screens before bed
3. Keep your room cool
4. Limit caffeine after noon
5. Try reading instead of scrolling

18. Curly Quotation Marks

• Source: en-style.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: curly/smart quotes used in contexts where straight quotes are standard
• Fire condition: Curly quotes appear inside code blocks, inline code spans, configuration file examples, or plain-text technical documents where straight quotes are required.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

Set the variable: name = “hello”

In your config file, add: timeout = ‘30’

Example after:

Set the variable: name = "hello"

In your config file, add: timeout = '30'

37. Colon Reveal / Plot-Twist Setup

• Source: en-style.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: the best part:, the kicker:, the catch:, the result:, the twist:, plot twist:, the crazy part:, the wild part:, bonus:, spoiler:, the real reason:, translation:
• Fire condition: A short noun phrase followed by a colon stages the rest of the sentence as a dramatic reveal, in prose (not a list, label, or definition). Fires on 2+ instances in a document, or 1 instance where a plain sentence loses nothing.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The team shipped the migration in one weekend. The best part: zero downtime. The kicker: they did it with two engineers.

Example after:

The team shipped the migration in one weekend with zero downtime, using just two engineers.

Communication Patterns

19. Collaborative Communication Artifacts

• Source: en-communication.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: I hope this helps!, Let me know if you need, Feel free to ask, Happy to help, Don't hesitate to reach out, I'd be glad to, Is there anything else, Hope that clarifies things, Let me know if you'd like me to
• Fire condition: Any chatbot-style conversational phrase appears in content that is not a live interactive conversation.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The French Revolution began in 1789, driven by fiscal crisis and food shortages. I hope this helps! Let me know if you need more details on any specific aspect of the revolution. Feel free to ask about the key figures involved.

Example after:

The French Revolution began in 1789, driven by fiscal crisis and food shortages.

20. Knowledge-Cutoff Disclaimers

• Source: en-communication.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: as of my last update, I don't have access to real-time, my training data, I cannot verify current, as of my knowledge cutoff, I'm not able to browse, please verify this information, this may have changed since
• Fire condition: Any AI self-reference or training-data caveat appears in editorial, journalistic, or analytical content.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

As of my last update in April 2024, the company had around 5,000 employees. I don't have access to real-time data, so please verify this information with current sources.

Example after:

The company had around 5,000 employees as of April 2024. Current figures still need to be checked.

21. Sycophantic/Servile Tone

• Source: en-communication.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: Great question!, That's an excellent point, You've raised a fascinating, What a thoughtful, That's a really interesting, Absolutely!, You're absolutely right, What a great observation
• Fire condition: Any flattering or servile opener appears before substantive content.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

Great question! That's a really fascinating topic. You've raised an excellent point about the economic factors at play. Let me break this down for you. Inflation erodes purchasing power, so the same salary buys less house over time.

Example after:

Inflation erodes purchasing power, so the same salary buys less house over time.

29. False Nuance (Retroactive Reframing)

• Source: en-communication.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: Actually, it's more nuanced than that, To be more precise, Well, it's not quite that simple, That said, the reality is more complex, More accurately, In fairness, it's more that, If we're being precise, Though to be fair
• Fire condition: The text restates or lightly reframes the preceding claim under the guise of adding nuance, without introducing new information, evidence, or a genuinely different perspective.

Example before:

Remote work increases productivity. Actually, it's more nuanced than that — remote work can enhance productivity in certain contexts while presenting challenges in others, and the net effect depends on organizational culture and individual work styles.

Example after:

Remote work can increase productivity in some contexts and present challenges in others. Its net effect depends on organizational culture and individual work styles.

Example note: The second sentence contains a real qualification. This is a boundary case: removing its transition does not justify deleting the conditions.

Filler & Hedging Patterns

22. Filler Phrases

• Source: en-filler.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: it's important to note that, it's worth mentioning that, it should be noted that, in order to, due to the fact that, at the end of the day, when it comes to, in terms of, the fact of the matter is, it goes without saying, needless to say, as a matter of fact, for all intents and purposes, in light of the fact that
• Fire condition: 2+ filler phrases appear in the same paragraph, or a single phrase that can be deleted without any loss of meaning.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

It's important to note that, in order to achieve sustainable growth, companies need to invest in R&D. Due to the fact that competition is increasing, it's worth mentioning that firms must also focus on talent retention. At the end of the day, when it comes to long-term success, innovation is key.

Example after:

To achieve sustainable growth, companies need to invest in R&D. Because competition is increasing, firms must also focus on retaining talent. Innovation is key to long-term success.

23. Excessive Hedging

• Source: en-filler.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: it could potentially be argued that perhaps, may or may not, it is possible that, to some extent, in certain cases, it could be said that, there is a chance that, one might argue, it seems likely that, arguably, it is conceivable that, tends to suggest
• Fire condition: 3+ qualifiers stacked on a single claim, or a statement so hedged it makes no falsifiable assertion.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

It could potentially be argued that this approach may, to some extent, offer certain advantages in some cases, though it is possible that the results might vary depending on a number of factors that arguably remain to be fully understood.

Example after:

This approach may offer some advantages in certain cases. Results might vary depending on factors that may not yet be fully understood.

24. Generic Positive Conclusions

• Source: en-filler.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: a bright future lies ahead, exciting journey, the possibilities are endless, stands as a testament, the sky is the limit, promising outlook, exciting times ahead, the best is yet to come, transformative potential, a new chapter
• Fire condition: 2+ vague optimism phrases appear in the same paragraph or conclusion, or a standalone final sentence that is entirely optimism filler with no specific claim.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

As the company enters this exciting new chapter, the possibilities are truly endless. With its talented team and innovative vision, a bright future undoubtedly lies ahead. The best is yet to come.

Example after:

The company is entering an exciting new phase with limitless possibilities. Its talented team and innovative vision point to a bright future, with its best days still ahead.

31. Conclusion Signal Words

• Source: en-filler.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: In conclusion, Ultimately, In summary, To conclude, To sum up, Finally, All in all, In the end, Overall, On the whole
• Fire condition: The document's final paragraph (or second-to-last) opens with one of the watch words. Or 2+ such conclusion signals appear across paragraphs.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

In conclusion, work-life balance is not a luxury but a necessity. It is a critical foundation upon which sustainable success — both personal and professional — must be built.

Example after:

Work-life balance is necessary for lasting personal and professional success.

35. Throat-Clearing Openers

• Source: en-filler.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: here's the thing, here's what I mean, let me be clear, let me explain, I'll be honest, to be honest with you, the uncomfortable truth is, real talk, let's be real, here's the deal, the honest answer is
• Fire condition: A sentence or paragraph opens with a throat-clearing phrase that delays the actual claim, and the phrase can be deleted without losing any content. Fires on 1 instance when the following clause is the actual point, or 2+ instances anywhere in the document.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

Here's the thing: most onboarding flows fail before the first screen. Let me be clear — users decide in the sign-up form, not the tutorial.

Example after:

Most onboarding flows fail before the first screen. Users decide in the sign-up form, not the tutorial.

36. Faux-Insight Setup

• Source: en-filler.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: what nobody tells you, what most people get wrong, the part everyone misses, what they don't teach you, here's what nobody talks about, most people don't realize, the secret nobody shares, what if I told you
• Fire condition: A claim is introduced by framing everyone else as ignorant or the writer as the lone insider, and the framing adds no evidence for the claim itself. Fires on any instance in expository prose; in marketing copy 2+ instances.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

What nobody tells you about fundraising: warm intros matter more than the deck. Most people get this wrong.

Example after:

Warm intros matter more than the deck. Most people get this wrong.

Structure Patterns

25. Metronomic Paragraph Structure

• Source: en-structure.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: Structural pattern; inspect the fire condition rather than a fixed vocabulary list.
• Fire condition: 3+ consecutive paragraphs follow the identical internal template — e.g., claim → evidence → significance, or problem → solution → benefit, or intro → development → conclusion.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The electric vehicle market has experienced unprecedented growth in recent years. Sales doubled between 2021 and 2023, driven by falling battery costs and expanded charging infrastructure. This trend signals a fundamental shift in how consumers relate to personal transportation.

Battery technology has improved considerably over the same period. Energy density has increased by 40% since 2018, while costs have fallen from $140 to $90 per kWh. These advances have made electric vehicles competitive with internal combustion alternatives on a total cost of ownership basis.

Government policy has played a significant supporting role. Tax credits of up to $7,500 are available in the United States, and the EU has mandated a ban on new petrol vehicle sales by 2035. Such regulatory tailwinds are expected to sustain the sector's momentum into the next decade.

Example after:

Electric vehicle sales doubled between 2021 and 2023, driven by falling battery costs and expanded charging infrastructure. This unprecedented growth marks a fundamental change in how consumers relate to personal transportation.

Since 2018, battery energy density has increased by 40%, while costs have fallen from $140 to $90 per kWh. Battery technology improved considerably over the same period as the sales growth, making electric vehicles competitive with internal combustion alternatives on total ownership costs.

Policy is also an important support: the United States offers tax credits of up to $7,500, and the EU has mandated a ban on new petrol vehicle sales by 2035. These policies are expected to sustain growth into the next decade.

26. Passive Nominalization Chains

• Source: en-structure.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: was conducted, was performed, was developed, was established, were identified, is required, has been shown, is provided, are considered, is achieved, is determined, is utilized, is noted
• Fire condition: 2+ passive nominalization phrases in the same paragraph — e.g., "an analysis was conducted", "consideration was given to", "a decision was made".
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

An extensive review of the literature was conducted in order to identify key patterns. Consideration was given to a range of methodological approaches, and a decision was made to adopt a mixed-methods design. Data collection was performed over a six-month period, after which an analysis was undertaken to identify recurring themes.

Example after:

The literature was reviewed extensively to identify key patterns. Several methodological approaches were considered before a mixed-methods design was chosen. Data were collected over six months, then analyzed to identify recurring themes.

Example note: No actor is named in the input. The rewrite shortens nominalizations while retaining passive voice.

27. Zombie Nouns (Excessive Nominalization)

• Source: en-structure.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: make an improvement to, provide a description of, conduct an analysis of, give consideration to, offer an explanation of, achieve a reduction in, have an impact on, make a decision about, reach a conclusion regarding, perform an evaluation of, carry out an investigation into, give an indication of
• Fire condition: 3+ nominalized verb phrases in the same paragraph — e.g., "make improvements" instead of "improve", "conduct an analysis" instead of "analyze".
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The committee made a decision to conduct an analysis of the current situation and to provide a recommendation regarding future strategy. An evaluation of the available options was performed, and after careful consideration was given to each alternative, an agreement was reached on the most viable approach.

Example after:

The committee decided to analyze the current situation and recommend a future strategy. The available options were evaluated, each alternative was carefully considered, and agreement was reached on the most viable approach.

28. Stacked Subordinate Clauses

• Source: en-structure.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: Structural pattern; inspect the fire condition rather than a fixed vocabulary list.
• Fire condition: A single sentence contains 3+ embedded relative clauses, appositives, or participial phrases before the main verb reaches its object — or the reader must parse 4+ commas before understanding the sentence's main claim.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

The initiative, which was developed in response to increasing concerns about, and growing awareness of, the urgent need to address the challenges facing both urban and rural communities in the context of rapid technological transformation, aims to bridge the gap between innovation and equitable access.

Example after:

The initiative aims to bridge the gap between innovation and equitable access. It was developed in response to growing concern and awareness of the urgent need to address challenges facing urban and rural communities as technology changes rapidly.

30. Rhetorical Question Openers

• Source: en-structure.md
• Type: rewrite-capable pattern
• Watch words: Structural pattern; inspect the fire condition rather than a fixed vocabulary list.
• Fire condition: A paragraph opens with an interrogative sentence ("Why...?", "How...?", "What...?", "But what if...?") AND the answer follows in the same or next sentence within the same paragraph. Or: the document contains 2+ rhetorical questions used as paragraph openers across paragraphs.
• Example files: failure · success

Example before:

So why did Korean coffee culture grow so fast? The answer is surprisingly simple. Cafés moved beyond being places to buy drinks and became social hubs.

But what about the future? Experts believe the trend will continue.

Example after:

Korean coffee culture grew fast for a surprisingly simple reason: cafés moved beyond being places to buy drinks and became social hubs.

Experts believe the trend will continue.

Viral Hook Patterns (score-only)

Viral 1. Shock Numbers as Hook

• Source: en-viral-hook.md
• Type: score/audit only; rewrite modes skip this pack
• Watch words: in just N days, only N hours, jumped from 0 to N, hit N million in N weeks, N% growth in N months, broke the N-million mark, N-figure result
• Fire condition: A bold claim relies on a striking number (time-to-X, scale, percentage) and the same piece offers no source or verification path.

Detection example:

250K stars in just 60 days. $100M revenue with zero ad spend.

Viral 2. Clickbait Mystery Close

• Source: en-viral-hook.md
• Type: score/audit only; rewrite modes skip this pack
• Watch words: what makes them tick, why is everyone, you'll never guess, can you believe, the reason might surprise you, here's why
• Fire condition: The last sentence of the piece is a rhetorical question that the body has not answered, or a teaser that explicitly redirects the reader to engagement (subscribe, follow, save).

Detection example:

So why are devs flocking to it without any marketing? The reason might surprise you.

Viral 3. Source-Skipping Authority

• Source: en-viral-hook.md
• Type: score/audit only; rewrite modes skip this pack
• Watch words: for the first time in history, a global first, never before seen, the only X that, reportedly (with no named source), industry insiders say (with no source)
• Fire condition: Absolute scope or rank claims ("first ever", "no one has", "industry-wide change") appear without an accompanying source, link, screenshot, or named expert.

Detection example:

The fastest growth GitHub has ever seen. Developers worldwide are losing their minds over this.

Viral 4. Breath-Optimized Short-Sentence Stacking

• Source: en-viral-hook.md
• Type: score/audit only; rewrite modes skip this pack
• Watch words: (structural pattern — judged by form, not vocabulary)
• Fire condition: The whole piece is composed almost entirely of one-sentence paragraphs, four or more in a row, with average sentence length under ~12 words. A handful of short sentences mixed with longer ones does not fire this.

Detection example:

No one has ever shipped this fast.

250K stars in 60 days.

A tool called OpenClaw did it.

Why are devs flocking to it without any marketing?

(Four one-line paragraphs, average ~10 words, line-break separated → fires.)

Viral 5. Hyperbolic Engagement Lexicon

• Source: en-viral-hook.md
• Type: score/audit only; rewrite modes skip this pack
• Watch words: absolutely insane, totally wild, mind-blowing, game-changing, you can't sleep on this, don't miss out, hands down the best, literally everyone is, this changes everything, a no-brainer
• Fire condition:

• One occurrence in the piece: Low
• Two occurrences: Medium
• Three or more: High

Detection example:

This is absolutely insane and developers are losing their minds. Hands down the best dev tool of the year — don't sleep on it.

Viral 6. Fake Statistic Citation

• Source: en-viral-hook.md
• Type: score/audit only; rewrite modes skip this pack
• Watch words: studies show N%, research says N%, data shows N%, according to research (with no named source), N% of people, science says, survey found (with no survey named)
• Fire condition: A numeric or statistical claim is attributed to vague research, data, surveys, or science, and the same piece gives no named source, link, sample, date, or method.
• Severity rubric: Low = one vague statistic supports a minor point; Medium = the statistic opens the piece or anchors the main CTA; High = precise percentages support high-stakes advice or multiple unsourced statistics appear together.

Before / after example:

Before: Studies show 73% of founders lose money because they ignore this one habit.

After: Studies show 73% of founders lose money because they ignore this one habit.

Example note: No correction is shown here. The percentage, cause and unnamed studies need checking; a rewrite cannot replace them with a new claim.

Viral 7. Manufactured Authority Stacking

• Source: en-viral-hook.md
• Type: score/audit only; rewrite modes skip this pack
• Watch words: Stanford-trained, Y Combinator-backed, ex-Google, Harvard-trained, Forbes-featured, award-winning, serial founder, trusted by top CEOs, industry-leading expert
• Fire condition: Two or more prestige credentials, titles, investors, schools, employers, awards, or media labels are stacked to sell a claim, and the piece does not show why those credentials prove the point.
• Severity rubric: Low = two relevant labels on a narrow claim; Medium = 3+ labels introduce advice/product/trend without evidence; High = the stack replaces evidence for high-stakes advice or purchase/signup CTA.

Before / after example:

Before: A Stanford-trained, Y Combinator-backed serial founder says this one workflow will 10x your growth.

After: A serial founder trained at Stanford and backed by Y Combinator says this workflow will multiply your growth by 10.

Viral 8. Future-Self / Parasocial Promise

• Source: en-viral-hook.md
• Type: score/audit only; rewrite modes skip this pack
• Watch words: your future self will thank you, thank me later, listen friend, friend, save this for later, one year from now you'll be glad, future you, trust me on this
• Fire condition: An opener or close addresses the reader as a friend, future self, or intimate confidant and promises later gratitude, usually around a save/share/follow call, without concrete support in the same piece.
• Severity rubric: Low = one soft save-this phrase; Medium = the future-self promise frames the title/opener/CTA; High = paired with urgency, scarcity, or high-stakes life/career advice.

Before / after example:

Before: Listen, friend — your future self will thank you for saving this.

After: You will thank yourself later for saving this.

Viral 9. Aphoristic Punchline / Standalone Declarative

• Source: en-viral-hook.md

Watch words: (structural pattern — judged by form, not vocabulary)

Problem: A short, grammatically complete declarative sentence (roughly ten words or fewer) is set on its own line or paragraph for rhetorical gravitas — a pseudo-profound mic-drop. One can be a stylistic choice; several across a piece, or one capping each paragraph, is a hallmark of AI-polished thought-leadership copy that gestures at depth without earning it. The judgment is about form and placement, not the words used.

Fire condition: A standalone, grammatically complete declarative sentence of about ten words or fewer is isolated on its own line or paragraph as a punchline, and the piece contains two or more such isolated aphorisms or caps successive paragraphs with them.

Severity rubric:

• Low: One standalone aphorism appears in the piece.
• Medium: Two standalone aphorisms appear.
• High: Three or more appear, or nearly every paragraph is capped with one.

Exclusion:

• Poetry, song lyrics, verse
• Genuinely short notes, answers, alerts, or one-line replies
• A deliberate aphorism backed by concrete support in the same passage
• Quoted speech or dialogue
• Headings and section titles

Semantic Risk: LOW — score-only; the isolated line may be intentional rhetoric. Preservation Note: Score-only by default; if the user asks to lower the hook, fold the standalone line back into the surrounding paragraph or attach the concrete reason it points at, so the claim survives without the staged mic-drop. Before / after examples (manual lower-signal rewrite):

Before: We rebuilt the onboarding flow over two sprints.

Symmetry becomes a trap.

The team learned to ship smaller.

Constraints are a gift.

After: We rebuilt the onboarding flow over two sprints. Symmetry becomes a trap. The team learned to ship smaller. Constraints are a gift.