How we change what others think, feel, believe and do |
Clarity
Disciplines > Argument > Virtues of Style > Clarity Description | Example | Discussion | See also
DescriptionSpeak or write with a constant focus on helping the other person understand what you are trying to convey. Make it easy for them to understand. Use simple forms of the language, simple sentences and so on. ExampleEschew obfuscation. (not clear) Avoid making things unclear. (clearer) Be clear. (even clearer) DiscussionClarity is similar to Correctness in that it does seek to follow the rules of language, yet you can be correct and very obscure. Obscurity occurs when you are using uncommon words and archaic forms of the language that, although correct, are difficult to understand. 'Plain English' is a movement that seeks to spread clarity in speech and, particularly, writing. Vices of clarity include using complex sentences and uncommon words in a deliberate attempt to assert authority by causing confusion. A common form of losing clarity is where there is ambiguity, such that multiple meanings may be given (again, this can be a deliberate device). See also
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Site Menu |
| Home | Top | Quick Links | Settings | |
Main sections: | Disciplines | Techniques | Principles | Explanations | Theories | |
Other sections: | Blog! | Quotes | Guest articles | Analysis | Books | Help | |
More pages: | Contact | Caveat | About | Students | Webmasters | Awards | Guestbook | Feedback | Sitemap | Changes | |
Settings: | Computer layout | Mobile layout | Small font | Medium font | Large font | Translate | |
| Home | Top | Menu | Quick Links | |
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