1# Strict STE word substitutions
2 
3Use these mappings only in strict STE mode. In ordinary prose, choose the word that best fits the speaker and context.
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5| Do not use | Use instead |
6|---|---|
7| utilize, leverage, employ | use |
8| commence, initiate, begin, originate | start |
9| terminate, cease, conclude | stop, end |
10| ensure, verify, confirm, validate, check | make sure that, examine |
11| perform, conduct, execute, carry out | do |
12| facilitate, assist | help |
13| obtain, acquire, procure | get |
14| sufficient, adequate | enough |
15| approximately | about |
16| prior to | before |
17| subsequent to, following | after |
18| adjacent to | near |
19| accomplish | do |
20| additional, supplementary | more |
21| attempt | try |
22| require, necessitate | need, must |
23| indicate, signify | show |
24| rotate | turn |
25| deactivate | turn off, set to off |
26| activate | turn on, start |
27| in order to | to |
28| via, by means of | through, with |
29| due to, owing to | because of |
30| in the event of | if |
31| modify, alter | change |
32| retain | keep |
33| locate | find |
34| depress a button | push, press |
35| proceed | continue, go |
36 
37Do not use `should`, `would`, `could`, `may`, or `might`. Use `must`, `can`, or `will` according to the meaning.
38 
39Do not use `e.g.`, `i.e.`, or `etc.`. Write the full phrase or the full list.
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41Use `close` as a verb. Use `near` as the adjective.
42 
43Use `test` as a noun: “do a test.”
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45Use `follow` only for sequence. Use `obey` for rules and instructions.
46 
47Use `fall` only for movement by gravity. Use `decrease` for a quantity.
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49Use `above` and `below` only for physical position. Use `more than` and `less than` for quantities.
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