The Debate Over Omitting 'That' in Writing

As a Google SEO expert, I often receive queries about the writing rules and practices that can further optimize a website's SEO. One such debate that frequently arises is the omission of the word 'that'—a discussion that touches on both grammatical precision and stylistic eloquence. In this article, we will delve into the nuances of this issue and explore why it matters in the realm of digital content.

The Grammar and Usage Perspective

From a grammatical standpoint, 'that' serves as a conjunction in English. It can be omitted in certain contexts without altering the meaning of a sentence. However, its presence or absence can impact clarity and efficiency, especially in written communication. Written content is inherently less effective and efficient than other modalities, hence the importance of adhering to guidelines that ensure clear messaging.

Steven N Czetli's point about the 'rulification' of language rules is compelling. These rules are intended to enhance clarity, and while grammar and style guidelines are useful, they should not overly complicate the writing process. The key is to use 'that' when it clarifies and avoid it when it muddies the waters or feels excessive.

Stylistic Considerations

Stylistically, the omission of 'that' is often less restrictive for native speakers in speech. Native speakers can convey implied meanings through intonation, stress, and other subtle cues. However, in writing, these cues are absent, making clarity even more critical. Therefore, the decision to omit 'that' in writing often depends on the complexity of the sentence and the need for emphasis.

For instance, consider the sentence 'This is the house that Jack built.' While 'that' can be omitted in speech, the removal might change the implication in writing. The sentence could be rephrased to 'This is the house Jack built,' which can be more direct and impactful. Conversely, 'I told him that I had to go' can be simplified to 'I told him I had to go,' which is no less clear.

Personal Preferences and Sentence Complexity

When deciding whether to omit 'that,' writers often rely on personal preferences and the complexity of the sentence. If the sentence has already used multiple 'that's' or is already complex, further inclusion of 'that' can impose redundancy and diminish readability. As a writer, I tend to omit 'that' when it is not necessary for clarity, as seen in the following example:

I don't think 'that' is needed here, just now when I could have said 'If I don't think it needs it.'

Ultimately, the decision to omit 'that' should be based on whether it enhances the clarity and flow of the sentence or detracts from it. As Steven N Czetli suggests, the goal should be to simplify without losing essential meaning.

It's important to remember that while there are no hard and fast rules, incorporating a balanced approach to language use can significantly improve the clarity and efficiency of your writing. This balance is vital in SEO optimization, as clear and succinct content tends to score better in user engagement and search engine rankings.