This post is about simplifying complex words and a guide to easier communication, to promote clearer and more accessible communication. While using the "big grammar" might be suitable for certain scenarios in most other cases it is unnecessary as such words can make understanding more difficult for your listeners thereby defeating the goal of effective communication.
Language is a powerful tool for communication, but sometimes, the complexity of certain words can create barriers rather than bridges. In professional and academic settings, there's often a preference for big, complex words, but these can be confusing or off-putting for some audiences.
Commonly used 'big' grammar words and their simpler alternatives
- Ascertain = Find out
- Disclose = Reveal
- Utilize = Use
- Facilitate = Help
- Obtain = Get
- Commence = Begin/Start
- Conduct = Carry out
- Implement = Put in place/Do
- Accomplish = Achieve
- Perceive = See/Understand
- Consequence = Result
- Enhance = Improve
- Terminate = End/Stop
- Substantiate = Prove
- Ameliorate = Improve/Make better
- Manifest = Show
- Consolidate = Combine/Unite
- Precipitate = Cause
- Exacerbate = Worsen
- Disseminate = Spread/Distribute
- Enumerate = List/Count
- Innovate = Create/Invent
- Rectify = Correct/Fix
- Elucidate = Explain
- Mitigate = Reduce/Lessen
- Culminate = End/Peak
- Initiate = Start/Begin
- Proliferate = Spread/Increase
- Expedite = Speed up
- Consensus = Agreement
- Fluctuate = Vary/Change
- Assimilate = Absorb/Adopt
- Deteriorate = Worsen/Decline
- Augment = Increase/Add to
- Subsequent = Next/Following
- Compensate = Pay/Make up for
- Authenticate = Verify/Prove
- Fabricate = Make up/Construct
- Incentivize = Motivate/Encourage
- Incur = Suffer/Get
- Predominant = Main/Leading
- Inadvertent = Unintentional/Accidental
- Comprehensive = Thorough/Complete
- Arbitrary = Random/Chance
- Incongruous = Out of place/Not fitting
- Plausible = Believable/Possible
- Deleterious = Harmful/Damaging
- Ubiquitous = Everywhere/Common
- Irrevocable = Permanent/Final
- Equivocate = Dodge/Avoid saying directly
Why Simplify Your Usage of Words?
Simplifying language can make your message more accessible to a wider audience. It's not about 'dumbing down' your communication; it's about making it more inclusive. This is particularly important in today's global environment, where your audience might include non-native English speakers or individuals from different educational backgrounds.
The Right Word for the Right Audience
It's essential to consider your audience when choosing your words. In some contexts, the more complex word might be necessary or expected. However, in most everyday situations, simpler words can make your communication more effective.
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Conclusion
Effective communication is about getting your message across clearly and effectively. Sometimes, this means choosing simpler words over their more complex counterparts. By doing so, you're not only making your language more accessible but also ensuring that your message is understood by the widest possible audience.
