This writing advice shows bad language examples, such as jargon, "doublespeak," and gender discrimination terms, and how writing well avoids such language.
When writing professionally or academically, sometimes it is difficult to know what words are "bad language" and what words are not. While there are definite exceptions depending on the company, school, or audience, here is some writing advice related to jargon, modern slang, "doublespeak," and terms of gender discrimination. So, you don't need to pay for homework help. Use this language lesson for writing well, as long as custom writing instructions are not given.
Euphemisms, evasive phrases seen as "nice" synonyms for "ugly" words, are generally not appropriate for writing aimed at an adult audience. Sometimes they are acceptable, such as when someone says "Today Edward Smith III passed away." However, sometimes they are deliberately evasive and, frankly, offensive to the reader's intelligence. For instance, saying that a company has "downsized" can be offensive to readers, as it implies that they cannot read past the nice phrase and see the ugly truth: the company fired workers. Writers looking for my essay writing advice should avoid using these terms.
Euphemisms are a type of "doublespeak," which is a more encompassing term that includes any language that is evasive or deceptive. Businesses and politicians commonly use this "bad language" to make any defeats, poor decisions, or tragedies sound better. For instance, when a business says it is "streamlining" it is likely referring to cutting the budget or firing (possibly long-time) employees.
Writers should try to appeal to their audiences, and in the case of a general audience both intellectual language and slang are "bad language." Generally, an author should try to write as clearly as possible without injecting either overly proper language or words usually used in speech (slang).
Jargon (technical terms) and complex, pretentious words should not be used when writing for a general audience. While certain flowery words and technical terms are appropriate for specific audiences, such as professors or industry executives, to most readers these terms can seem pretentious. Instead, use language that most readers can understand. Instead of "ameliorating," use "improving." Instead of "progenitors," use "parents."
On the opposite end of the language spectrum, modern slang is not appropriate for professional paper writing services. There are some exceptions–such as creative writing and dialogue–but generally, slang is not used when writing well. Terms like "c'mon" and "cool," as well as terms used in regional dialects, are more appropriate for informal writing. Instead, use terms like "let's move on" and "good."
Many people use discriminatory language without even realizing it. People still use sexist language when writing or speaking, because old, sexist terms still abound in the English language. In order to avoid making a sexist error and unintentionally encouraging stereotyping, think about the terms used and whether or not they may be sexist.
Sexist language does not have anything to do with biological facts. For instance, a woman who has children can be called a "mother:" she does not need to be called the generic "parent." The same, of course, goes for men with children being called "fathers." Only when non-biological, social aspects come into play does language show gender discrimination.
The career world is full of sexist language, both for men and women. Teachers, nurses, and secretaries are often referred to generically as women, even though many men have these positions. However, men still have the advantage in career-related sexist language, as people in high-salary positions of power (such as doctors, professors, politicians, and lawyers) are often referred to generically as men.
To avoid these sexist mistakes in any context, refer to people in the plural ("They are doctors"), use "he or she" ("When a lawyer passes the bar exam, she or he is ecstatic"), or completely change the sentence ("A nurse likes to take care of people"). In addition, certain positions, such as "fireman," "salesman," and "anchorman," should be made gender-neutral: "firefighter," "sales representative," and "anchor" are much more appropriate.
Few of these language slip-ups (except for sexist language, depending on the audience) will cause much fuss. However, professional writing will look much more polished without bad language elements, including jargon, "doublespeak," euphemism, modern slang, and terms that create gender discrimination. This language lesson helps with writing well for a general audience, but remember that many clients and audiences will require cheap custom writing.
Written by Joseph Kirby for MrOwl, Feb 2021.
