Don't Write Like AI (5 of 101): Red Flag Phrases

Continuing the theme from the last post on red flag words, we need to discuss red flag phrases.

Red flag phrases are high-probability outputs that sound like something you’ve read a thousand times. Because you probably have.

Think of lines like:

"In today's world..."
"Optimize your work flow..."
"Let's dive deep into..."

They’re not technically wrong. But when they pile up, your content starts to sound like it was written by a machine. And if you stack two or three in a single paragraph? You’ve got a red flag.

These phrases drain personality from your writing. They make you sound like everyone else, even when you’ve got something valuable to say.

This post breaks down why AI leans on these phrases, how to prompt around them, and which ones to look out for.

Why do we get repetitive, common phrases from AI?

LLMs choose to output what is statistically safe. Not what is stylistically fresh.

Let me explain.

We have to remember that LLMs are prediction tools. Based on its training material, it chooses language that is statistically safe and likely to satisfy the user's prompt request.

That's where we get the "consensus middle" with platforms like ChatGPT, where outputs tend to sound the same.

Additionally, when you start to provide context in your prompt, like the audience and writing voice, ChatGPT further narrows the words and phrases of your output.

If you read blogs or posts in your niche, you’ve probably seen the same phrases pop up again and again. Especially if AI was involved.

A Simple Framework to Handle Overused Phrases

Rather than outright banning phrases from the start, use this prompt flow to nudge, identify, and rework AI-written content with a lighter touch.

Step 1: Nudge the AI Early

Start by gently discouraging overused phrasing before the draft is written. Add these instructions to your prompt. If you’re using a more structured prompt, include this in something like the “context package” or “directions” section.

Prompt:

Avoid overused phrases like “in today’s world,” “game-changer,” “let’s face it,” or “the bottom line.” Use specific, natural language and varied sentence rhythm. Make it sound more like a human than a content formula.

Optional addition:

You can use common structures, but don’t lean on clichés. Surprise me with at least one turn of phrase or transition.

Step 2: Identify AI-ish Phrases

After generating a draft, prompt AI to spot weak or generic language. This will help you identify any phrases you may have missed. If you're new to the industry, you'll want to identify these.

Prompt:

Highlight any phrases that sound formulaic, overused, or like AI-generated filler. Focus on intros, transitions, and overly polished marketing language.

Step 3: Rework Problem Areas With Better Prompts

Now that the issues are visible, experiment with these prompts to rework the content based on tone and context.

General Cleanup

Rewrite this using clearer, more specific phrasing. Avoid buzzwords like “unlock,” “real value,” and “future-proof.” Keep the tone direct and grounded.

*You can replace the buzzwords that are specific to your industry.

Make It Sound Human

Make this sound like something a real person would write. Avoid startup clichés, empty transitions, and overly neat summaries. Let the rhythm feel a little more conversational.

*Replace "startup" with your niche/industry.

Add More Personality

Rewrite this in a confident, human voice. Be specific. Be interesting. Cut phrases that feel generic, like “the bottom line” or “let’s dive in.” Use natural transitions and avoid trying to sound “smart.”

Open Stronger

Rewrite the intro without using phrases like “In today’s fast-paced world…” or “Let’s face it.” Start with a clear problem, real moment, or sharp observation instead.

Reworking the opening sentence or paragraph is likely something you'll need to do for every writing. ChatGPT doesn't know what it's going to write. It learns as it writes. So, after it writes the content, ask it to reconsider its content and rework the introduction.

Common AI Phrases I've Come Across

Alright, so here's a comprehensive list of repetitive phrases I've come across. Most of these phrases are fine to use, (aside from a couple such as "in today's fast-paced..." and its variations), remember to consider how these flow within your content.

Templated Intros & Transitions

These phrases feel like they were pulled straight from a content formula. They signal structure, but lack originality.

• “In today’s fast-paced [world/landscape/business environment]…”
• “In a world where…”
• “As the [industry/landscape] continues to evolve…”
• “Now more than ever…”
• “Let’s dive in.”
• “Let’s break it down.”
• “Here’s the thing…”
• “Here’s the uncomfortable truth:”
• “The goal?”
• “The result?”
• Intro formula: “As [trend/movement], [topic] is becoming [value statement] in [context]”

Business Hype / Sales-y Language

These phrases try to sound impressive or persuasive but feel empty or inflated, especially when overused.

• “Forward-thinking companies…”
• “This shift in how forward-thinking companies…”
• “Revolutionizing the way…”
• “A game-changer for [industry/role]”
• “That’s where [product/solution] comes in.”
• “Unlock the power of…”
• “Supercharge your [workflow/team/performance]”
• “Transforming [X] into [Y]”
• “Simply cannot [match/achieve/replicate]”
• “Modern” / “Today’s” [professionals/businesses/solutions]
• “Future-proof your…”
• “Stay ahead of the curve.”
• “Strategic advantage” / “Strategic benefit”
• “The bottom line…”
• “Thrilled to announce…”
• “Imagine a world where…”

Faux-Conversation

These try to mimic a casual, human tone but often feel forced or unnatural.

• “Let’s face it…”
• “But let’s get real…”
• “What does this mean for you?”
• “Not all [X] are created equal.”
• “It’s no secret that…”
• “Whether you’re a [persona A] or a [persona B]…”
• “I hope this message finds you well”
• “Unpack that”
• “The good news?”
• “The real unlock”
• “Real problems” / “Real value” (when nothing is really “real”)

Repetitive Structures

These aren’t phrases themselves, but templates AI tends to overuse to sound neat or structured.

• “[Problem]? Meet [solution].”
• “It’s time to…”
• “Why it matters…”
• “Here’s what you need to know…”

“Do X, so you can Y.” Example:

“Automate your processes, so you can focus on what matters.”

“X is more than just Y. It’s Z.” Example:

“It’s more than just automation. It’s a complete transformation.”

Wrap-up

Red flag phrases aren’t always bad. But they’re rarely great. When too many stack up, they flatten your tone and blur your voice. The fix isn’t complicated. Just notice them, prompt around them, and rework where needed. It’s one of the simplest ways to make AI-assisted writing feel more like your writing.