# Remove unnecessary adverbs (EK00006)

import { Aside, Badge } from '@astrojs/starlight/components';

Manner adverbs — often words ending in "-ly" — add little meaning to a sentence, and cutting them leaves a claim that is direct and verifiable. EkLine flags these adverbs (rule EK00006) and suggests removing them.

## Why remove unnecessary adverbs in documentation?

Adverbs like `carefully` or `quietly` describe how an action happens without telling the reader anything they can act on. In technical writing, they pad sentences and imply a judgment the reader can't measure. Removing them shortens instructions and keeps the focus on what to do.

## What EkLine flags

EK00006 flags a manner adverb from a fixed list that adds little meaning to the sentence.

- ❌ **Incorrect:** Carefully review the settings.
- ✅ **Correct:** Review the settings.
- ❌ **Incorrect:** The service quietly restarts.
- ✅ **Correct:** The service restarts.

## How to fix

Delete the adverb, or replace it with a specific detail that tells the reader what to expect.

## FAQ

### Which adverbs does this rule target?

It targets manner adverbs — often words ending in "-ly," such as `carefully` or `quietly` — that describe how an action happens without telling the reader anything they can act on.

### What should you write instead of a manner adverb?

Delete the adverb, or replace it with a specific detail that tells the reader what to expect.

## Rule details

| Property | Value |
|----------|-------|
| Rule ID | `EK00006` |
| Category | Sentences and phrases |
| Default severity | <Badge text="Suggestion" variant="note" /> |
| Enabled by default | Yes |

## Ignore this rule

To keep a flagged adverb on one line, add an inline comment with a reason:

```markdown
<!-- ekline-ignore-next-line EK00006 -- adverb is load-bearing here -->
Carefully remove the production database backup.
```

To disable the rule across your project, add it to the `ignore` list in your [configuration file](/reviewer/configuration/ignoring-rules/#ignore).

## Related rules

- [EK00019](/reviewer/rules/weasel-words/) — Avoid weasel words
- [EK00038](/reviewer/rules/simple-words/) — Prefer simple, concise words