An idiom is a phrase that fluent speakers generally understand and that would not make sense if you looked at its component parts. For example, what does it mean to say, “It’s raining cats and dogs”? We’re not feeling fur fall from the sky, but we know what the phrase means. Most of us use idioms all […]
Gratitude builds bridges. People who feel appreciated are happier, healthier, and more productive. Learn how to thank people powerfully.
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Who Cares About Grammar Errors? During Worktalk’s business writing trainings, people often ask me whether grammar errors still matter in the age of text and Twitter. I tell them that grammar still counts, even with the advent of emojis. Grammatical writing is vital because it contributes to clear writing, and clear writing helps us get
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Sets of words that sound similar often confuse writers. My book, Get to the Point, 2nd edition, contains an extensive (or was it intensive?) list of these words. Several Writamins subscribers have requested that we review a few classics. Affect versus Effect AFFECT (verb or noun) in its verbal usage means to act on; to
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Where’s the Beef? Which would you rather eat — a burger made with 100% meat or one that’s clogged with flour, preservatives, and other fillers? Assuming you’re not a vegetarian, you probably want the beef, not the filler. In the same way, your readers want your message, not the mealy-mouthed hedge words that clog up
Filler Words Annoy People — So Why Do We Use Them? Read More »
