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If your story was turned into a movie, would your dialogue make the audience cringe... or lean in?
Writing dialogue is tricky. You want it to feel natural — but still purposeful. Real, but not boring. Sharp, but not over-polished.
So how do you make it sound like something actual people would say?
First: Real People Don't Speak in Paragraphs
If your characters talk in perfectly structured, long-winded speeches? It's going to feel like a monologue — not a conversation.
Too much:
"I just feel like ever since we started spending time together, I've been reevaluating the way I see the world, and maybe that scares me because I've never done that before."
More realistic:
"You've changed the way I see things. And that kind of scares me."
Shorter. Simpler. Stronger.
Second: Cut the Filler
In real life, people say "um," "like," and "you know" — but in fiction, you don't need to include all that unless it adds something.
Instead of:
"So, um, I was just thinking... maybe we could go get coffee or whatever. Unless you're busy."
Try:
"Want to grab coffee? Unless you've got plans."
Still awkward and cute — but way more readable.
Third: Use Dialogue to Show Personality
Your characters shouldn't all sound the same.
One might ramble. Another might be blunt. Someone else might joke when they're nervous.
Examples:
• A sarcastic best friend: "Wow, what a healthy coping mechanism. Ten out of ten."
• A nervous love interest: "Wait—sorry, was that weird? That was weird."
• A villain: "You think I care about your rules? That's cute."
You can reveal so much about someone through how they talk — and what they don't say.
Fourth: Action Beats > Endless Quotation Marks
Don't forget what's happening around the conversation. A nervous glance, a slammed book, a pause between words — those tiny actions make the dialogue breathe.
Example:
"You're serious?" she asked.
He shrugged, avoiding her eyes. "When am I not?"
It's not just what they say. It's how they say it. What they do. What they hide.
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Emails I Cant Send - Writing Tips
RandomNeed help turning your ideas into actual stories? Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your writing game, Emails I Cant Send is your go-to guide for crafting compelling characters, creating binge-worthy plots, and avoiding common...
