Emma Jonson What is a common problem with word choice?
Using a word that sounds similar to the intended word but has a different meaning is one of the most common errors in word choice. Among native speakers, such an error is often just a slip of the tongue. Among non-native speakers, however, it could be the result of genuine confusion.
What is a precise word choice?
Precision. A very important part of word choice is precision. Through precise word selection, you can increase the clarity of your argument by enabling your readers to grasp your intended meaning quickly and accurately. Therefore, you also need to choose words that will convey your ideas clearly to your readers.
What are four common word choice problems?
Here are four common conundrums that writers encounter all the time—and how to sort them out.
- Farther vs. Further. “Farther” has the word “far” in it.
- Oral vs. Verbal. Wondering whether you have a “verbal” or “oral” agreement?
- “You and Me” vs. “You and I”
- Affect vs. Effect.
What are the experts saying about your choice of words?
Social psychologist of the University of Texas, James W. Pennebaker, observes that we often go wrong when trying to present ourselves in a way we think other people will find acceptable. When we over-think how we speak, we tend to use constraining words that can stop us from sounding authentic.
Is it possible to say’your choice * for’?
The separate object could be a reason (I chose this car for the simple fact that it’s the best there is) or an object/person (I chose this car for you because it’s the best there is). I think this is best shown by the fact that My choice for is not a phrase that is often heard, it sounds more like an announcement.
How can this sense be indicated in writing?
I’ve often had situations where I’m unsure of the correct word to be used, either when writing or proofreading. How can this sense be indicated in writing? Someone mentioned adding a question mark just before it to indicate that the writer is unsure of that particular word. For example: