100 Words to Avoid in Email Subject Lines

Crafting engaging email subject lines is essential to capture audience attention and improve open rates. However, many words and phrases might trigger spam filters, directing your emails to the junk folder. Understanding which terms to avoid is key to maximizing deliverability.

This article delves into why spam filters flag specific words, lists 100 spam-triggering terms, and offers tips for subject line optimization to enhance your email campaigns.

Understanding Spam Filters and Trigger Words

Email services such as Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo utilize sophisticated filtering systems to identify and block unsafe emails. They examine subject lines, content, formatting, and sender behavior to screen for potential threats. Words often linked with scams, forceful sales methods, or misleading assertions are flagged as spam risks.

By excluding these risky terms, marketers can boost deliverability and sustain their sender reputation, ultimately improving engagement.

100 Spammy Words and Phrases to Avoid

Money Matters: Words to Steer Clear Of

• Free money
• Cash bonus
• Get paid
• Make money
• Earn extra cash
• Unlimited income
• Fast cash
• Increase sales
• Financial freedom
• Work from home

Urgency and Pressure Tactics to Avoid

• Act now
• Urgent
• Limited time
• Don’t miss out
• Hurry
• Final notice
• Once in a lifetime
• Instant access
• Time-sensitive
• Exclusive deal

Overpromising and Misleading Claims

• Risk-free
• No hidden fees
• Guaranteed
• 100% free
• Promise you
• No catch
• No obligation
• You have been selected
• Congratulations
• Click below

Sales and Discount Alerts to Rethink

• Lowest price
• Best price
• Sale now
• Discount
• Bargain
• Buy direct
• Order now
• Special promotion
• Save big
• Winner

Security Concerns and Online Safety

• Password
• Account update
• Confirm your identity
• Access now
• Click here
• Unsubscribe
• This isn’t spam
• Verify your account
• Your bill
• Important information

Health Claims That Raise Eyebrows

• Miracle cure
• No side effects
• Weight loss
• Shed pounds
• Anti-aging
• Enhance performance
• Improve your health
• Cure
• Doctor recommended
• Scientifically proven

Gambling Lingo to Avoid

• Jackpot
• You’re a winner
• Free entry
• Win big
• Lottery
• Scratch and win
• Prize inside
• Casino
• Betting
• Claim your prize

Suspicious Words That Signal Scams

• Urgent response needed
• Confidential
• Sensitive information
• Final warning
• Your account is on hold
• We need your information
• Verify now
• Suspicious activity
• Billing department
• Act immediately

Crafting Winning Subject Lines

Avoiding spam triggers is just the start. Consider these strategies for writing effective email subject lines:

1. Be Concise: Target 6-10 words or under 60 characters for clarity and mobile-friendliness.
2. Personalization Pays Off: Incorporate personalized elements like the recipient’s name to boost engagement.
3. Spark Curiosity Responsibly: Instead of “Massive Sale—Act Now,” try “Uncover Your Special Offer.”
4. Leverage A/B Testing: Experiment with various subject lines to discover what resonates best.
5. Emphasize Value: Clearly highlight the benefit to entice readers instead of making bold claims.

Steering clear of these spam-trigger words enhances your emails’ credibility and effectiveness. By choosing precise and honest language, you can connect with audiences and foster genuine engagement.

Use this knowledge to fine-tune your subject lines and elevate the success of your email marketing campaigns.

Click Here For More Email Marketing tips and strategies.

Author Bio:

by Natalie Slyman

Content Marketing Manager