9. Use the most precise vocabulary possible
In general, you should try to use a vocabulary within the larger language we all share. Prefer the conversational. Whenever you are faced with a choice in wording, prefer the spoken, the quick, and the casual. Sometimes, of course, the casual will be too vague or too informal. But keep in mind that no one enjoys reading the pompous or the technically arcane.
For more theory on inflated writing, click here.
Here are some specific guidelines for making your writing seem so simple that the reader will trust your understanding of the content.
- Prefer the shorter, more widely known word
- Reduce three clues to vagueness: intensifiers, qualifiers, and not
- Beware of vague connecting words and phrases
- Reduce "the (noun) of" phrases to phrases with verbs
- Distinguish between buzz words and technical language
- Avoid certain well-known vague nouns and verbs
- Make it simple
==>Guidelines