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Chapter 3
Intro
This chapter looks at the ways that words are used, and frequently abused, in organisational communication. It shows how communicators can use fewer words to greater effort This requires attention to the principles of plain english, but also an imaginative use of the language, ensurl rial those w< ire used rem oth strong and meani I. I he task ol c based messa^ lether they are writt en very demanding. This is particularly true for people who are attempting to make use of less familiar languages. Getting more of the right words in the right order is not sufficient to transform prose into poetry. However, it should increase the chances that important messages will be conveyed effectively. The chapter covers written and spoken English. It begins by outlining the principles of plain English, and comments on the vexed issues of spelling, grammar and punctuation. (The companion website includes an introductory guide to English grammar and punctuation, with a number of additional practical exercises.)
There is a discussion of the difficult balance between clarity, conciseness and the desire to make language compelling and meaningful. We also consider the issue of translation between languages, noting some implications for inter- national organisations, where English is often the adopted language. There is also a review of issues specific to spoken English and a reflection on the use of language as a matter of style. The final section addresses a related topic, the ways that language is used to construct organisational 'stories', and how they influence the communication process.
3.2 Clear and concise language: using plain English
Plain English is a term used to describe clear, concise use of the English language that avoids unnecessary jargon or complication.
Plain English is a term used to describe clear, concise use of the English language that avoids unnecessary jargon or complication. The use of plain English
is
Intro
This chapter looks at the ways that words are used, and frequently abused, in organisational communication. It shows how communicators can use fewer words to greater effort This requires attention to the principles of plain english, but also an imaginative use of the language, ensurl rial those w< ire used rem oth strong and meani I. I he task ol c based messa^ lether they are writt en very demanding. This is particularly true for people who are attempting to make use of less familiar languages. Getting more of the right words in the right order is not sufficient to transform prose into poetry. However, it should increase the chances that important messages will be conveyed effectively. The chapter covers written and spoken English. It begins by outlining the principles of plain English, and comments on the vexed issues of spelling, grammar and punctuation. (The companion website includes an introductory guide to English grammar and punctuation, with a number of additional practical exercises.)
There is a discussion of the difficult balance between clarity, conciseness and the desire to make language compelling and meaningful. We also consider the issue of translation between languages, noting some implications for inter- national organisations, where English is often the adopted language. There is also a review of issues specific to spoken English and a reflection on the use of language as a matter of style. The final section addresses a related topic, the ways that language is used to construct organisational 'stories', and how they influence the communication process.
3.2 Clear and concise language: using plain English
Plain English is a term used to describe clear, concise use of the English language that avoids unnecessary jargon or complication.
Plain English is a term used to describe clear, concise use of the English language that avoids unnecessary jargon or complication. The use of plain English
is