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Chapter 8 Writing Style
Some documents need to be written using
industry language,
or jargon,
which is language usually specifi c to a line of work or area of expertise.
Various professions and industries have specifi c words and phrases that are
familiar to those who work in that fi eld, but may not be understood by those
outside of the fi eld. For example, used-car dealers categorize vehicles according
to condition and describe them as mint or near-mint. Similarly, stockbrokers talk
about bull and bear markets. Retailers talk about retail, wholesale, and markup/
markdown prices. These are examples of industry language.
The challenge, however,
is not to use jargon that
will be unfamiliar to the
reader. Think carefully,
because unfamiliar words
will distract readers.
Jargon speeds up the
communication process only
if the reader shares your
area of expertise. However,
if readers are unfamiliar
with the technical terms
used, they will feel left out
and may not understand
the message. Even if your
readers know the words,
they may feel as though
you are trying too hard to
impress them with insider
vocabulary.
Watch Out for Trendy Words
Trendy words are acceptable if you work in a trendy business or industry.
This is where knowing your audience comes in. Think before using trendy
words like awesome or tweet. Be aware of whether or not trendy words are still
current and if they are appropriate for the audience. Trends can very quickly
disappear. Using an outdated trendy word makes your writing sound out of
touch or not current.
Like jargon, using trendy words can make it look as though you are trying
to impress the reader. There also is a chance that a reader will not be familiar
with a trendy word or phrase. This can result in a communication breakdown.
TEAMWORK
List each of the following words and
phrases on a dry-erase board or fl ip
chart. As a team, work together to
think of simpler words or phrases to
replace the word on the list. Use a
thesaurus if one is available.
A. Acquiesce
B. Aggregate
C. Ascertain
D. Commensurate with
E. Disseminate
F. Equitable
G. Preclude
H. Predisposed
I. Subsequent to
J. Verifi cation
✔Checkpoint
1. Why is it good to use precise language?
2. What are bias-free words?
3. List three ways to achieve the four C’s of communication.