(BQ) Part 2 book “Business communication” has contents: Run-On sentences, combining sentences, delivering criticism, choosing levels of formality, being concise, improving paragraphs, improving paragraphs, using details, and other contents. | Module 15 Choosing the Right Word LEARNING OBJECTIVES Module 15 will help you to choose the right words for your business messages. After completing the module, you should be able to LO 15-1 Recognize value in using the right words. LO 15-4 Distinguish acceptable jargon from other types. LO 15-2 Apply strategies for critical thinking in reading, writing, and beyond. LO 15-5 Define words with similar sounds but different meanings. LO 15-3 Explain principles for word definition. T he best word depends on context: the situation, your purposes, your audience, and the words you have already used. As you choose words, 1. Use words that are accurate, appropriate, and familiar. Accurate words mean what you want to say. Appropriate words convey the attitudes you want and fit well with the other words in your document. Familiar words are easy to read and understand. 2. Use technical jargon only when it is essential and known to the reader. Eliminate business jargon. 256 256 12/28/12 5:1 Module 15 Choosing the Right Word 257 Does using the right word really matter? LO 15-1 ▶ The right word helps you look good and get the response you want. Using the right word is part of the way you demonstrate that you’re part of a discourse community (◀◀ p. 28). Using simple words is part of the way you create a friendly image of yourself and your organization. Using words that are part of standard edited English helps you build credibility and demonstrate your professionalism. Getting Your Meaning Across When the words on the page don’t say what you mean, the reader has to work harder to figure out your meaning. According to one report, “The western part of Ohio was transferred from Chicago to Cleveland.”1 In fact, Ohio did not move. Instead, a company moved responsibility for sales in western Ohio. Sometimes your audience can figure out what you mean. Sometimes, your meaning will be lost. .
