Open source · MIT licensed · 5.5K

Vale is a linter for prose

A command-line tool that brings code-like linting to your writing. Enforce a consistent editorial style across every doc, in any format—entirely offline.

bash — vale
$ vale README.md
README.md
4:3 error Did you really mean 'existant'? Vale.Spelling
6:12 warning Use 'use' instead of 'utilize'. Microsoft.Vocab
9:1 suggestion In general, use active voice. write-good.Passive
1 error, 1 warning and 1 suggestion in 1 file.

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Why Vale

Linting built for the way you write

The precision of a code linter, applied to prose—so quality and consistency stop being a manual review step.

Private by design

Vale runs entirely offline. Your content is never sent to a remote server for processing or training.

Markup-aware

Understands Markdown, AsciiDoc, reStructuredText, HTML, and source code—linting prose while ignoring syntax.

Style guides included

Ready-made implementations of Microsoft, Google, and other popular style guides, plus community packages.

Fully customizable

Write your own rules in YAML—no plugins to compile. Match your brand voice and share rules across a team.

Fast, single binary

Built in Go with no runtime dependencies. Drop it into any editor, CI pipeline, or pre-commit hook.

Runs everywhere

One tool for macOS, Windows, and Linux—MIT-licensed, open source, and actively maintained.

One tool, every app

More than just a command-line interface.

Vale integrates with many popular apps, browsers, and platforms—including VS Code, Google Chrome, GitHub Actions, and more.

App screenshot

Supported by a community

Sponsors & backers

Vale is free and open source, sustained by the generous organizations and individuals who back it on Open Collective.

Vale organizationsVale individuals

Ready to start linting?
Install now.