When it Doubt, Take the Big Word Out (Rachael Gorney)This is a featured page

It is common for many inexperienced writers to try and make their papers appear more educated by using overly formal diction. In certain circumstances this works to the benefit of the writer, but this technique also has the affect of portraying the author in a negative light to their readers. It is often times easier for both writers and their audiences, if writers use words that are easily available to them, rather than inflating their works with complicated language. By using language that is considered natural, a writer's work is made both easier to understand for readers and less troublesome for them to explain when questioned about their topics.


Example sentence:
The implementation of quarterly raises within our workplace is contingent upon the unanimous approval of the board.


Could be better stated as:
To start earning raises each quarter, the decision must first be approved by the entire board.


Rgorney
Rgorney
Latest page update: made by Rgorney , Mar 2 2009, 7:04 PM EST (about this update About This Update Rgorney Edited by Rgorney

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ahowar15 This Rule 1 Feb 24 2009, 8:54 AM EST by Rgorney
Thread started: Feb 19 2009, 7:54 PM EST  Watch
Nice title, it made me laugh. In regards to this rule, I also feel like "big words" shouldn't always be cut out. Maybe turn this into a rule about strings of big words?
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Aeberle removing the big words 1 Feb 17 2009, 11:27 PM EST by Rgorney
Thread started: Feb 17 2009, 3:04 PM EST  Watch
I am not sure if I agree with this 100%. I agree that if you normally would not use the word in your everyday language, that you should not use it in writing. However, I think that these words do serve a good purpose and that is to illustate the point or idea being made.
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skrause.emich This is too long! 0 Feb 17 2009, 8:26 PM EST by skrause.emich
Thread started: Feb 17 2009, 8:26 PM EST  Watch
Rachel, this is about 200 words. You need to cut it down to 150. Remember! this is part of the assignment!
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