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Business Communication: Adaptation and The Selection of Words
Business Communication: Adaptation and The Selection of Words
CHAPTER: 2
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The Basic Need for Adaptation
By adaptation, we mean fitting the message -
to the specific reader.
Readers do not-
- all have the same vocabulary,
- the same knowledge of the subject,
- the same mentality.
2
The Basic Need for Adaptation – cont……..
Example:
we will sometimes need to communicate with people,
whose educational level is below your own.
5
Suggestions For Selecting Words
A major part of adaptation is selecting the right words.
For example:
- instead of using the more unfamiliar word endeavor,
use try.
- instead of using terminate,use end.
7
Unfamiliar Words Familiar Words
This machine has a tendency This machine tends
to develop to get noisy
excessive and unpleasant when it runs hot.
audio symptoms
when operating at
elevated temperatures.
The most operative The most efficient
assembly-line assembly-line
configuration is design is
a unidirectional flow. a one-way flow. 8
2. Use Short Words
Short words generally communicate –
better than long words.
Examples:
* To a worker in the Social Security Administration,
the words covered employment commonly mean
employment covered by social security.
10
Select Words with the Right Strength and Vigor (energy)
For example:
we should recognize that –
11
Select Words with the Right Strength and Vigor – cont …….
We will not always want the strongest and most vigorous words.
Example:
The word bill is strong - because it has a harsh meaning in
some minds, we may prefer statement in some instances.
12
Use Concrete Language
Good business communication is marked by word
that form sharp and clear meanings in the mind.
13
Abstract Concrete
A significant A 53 percent loss
14
Select Words for Precise Meanings
* We should – study language and learn the shades
of difference in the meanings of similar words.
Example:
- Money, funds, cash, finances
- Boy, youth, young man, lad
15
Suggestions for Nondiscriminatory Writing
16
Use Gender-Neutral Words
17
Suggestions For Selecting Words
Controversial Gender-Neutral
Man-made Human origin
Manpower Personnel, workers
Businessman Business executive,
businessperson
he or she is placed
19
Avoid words that stereotype by Age
Words that label people as old or young
can arouse negative reactions.
20
Suggestions for selecting appropriate words
Use Familiar Words:
Use Short Words
Use Less Technical Words
Select Words with the Right Strength and Vigor (energy)
Use Concrete Language
Select Words for Precise Meanings
Uses of Nondiscriminatory Words
Use Gender-Neutral Words
Avoid words that stereotype by Age
21
THANKS…..
22