Chapter 14 - Language
Use specific language
Strategies for improving clarity
choose familiar language
Strategies for improving clarity
limit vocalized pauses
Strategies for improving clarity
provide details and examples
Strategies for improving clarity
simile
a direct comparison between two unlike things, expressed without using like or as
analogy
an extended metaphor
personification
attributing human qualities to concept or an inanimate object
linguistic sensitivity
avoid using generic language, non-parallel language, potentially offensive humor and profanity or vulgarity
antithesis
combining contrasting ideas in the same sentence
Effective oral style
descriptive words and phrases that appeal to the ear in ways that sustain listener interest and promote retention
Ask rhetorical questions
elements of Common Ground
Draw from common experiences
elements of Common Ground
Use personal pronouns
elements of Common Ground
Relevance
establish timeliness and proximity, demonstrate personal impact
Effective oral style
features plural personal pronouns
Speaking appropriately during a speech means
highlighting the relevance of your topic to the interests and needs of audience members, establishing common ground and speaker credibility, demonstrating linguistic sensitivity, and adapting to cultural diversity
timeless
how the information can be used now
Effective oral style
incorporates clear macro structural elements (main point preview, section transitions, and signposts)
proximity
information in relation to listener's personal space
rhetorical structures of speech
language that combines ideas in a particular way
rhetorical figures of speech
language that makes striking comparisons between things that are not obviously alike
verbal immediacy
language used to reduce the psychological distance between you and your audience
repetition
restating words, phrase, or sentences for emphasis
Effective oral style
tends toward short sentences and familiar language
common ground
the background, knowledge, attitudes, experiences, and philosophies a speaker shares with an audience
oral style
the manner in which one conveys messages through the spoken word
alliteration
the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words that are near one another
assonance
the repetition of vowel sounds in a phrase or phrases
onomatopoeia
the use of words that sound like things they stand for
vocalized pauses
unnecessary words interjected to fill moments of silence
Speaking appropriately
using language that adapts to the needs, interests, knowledge, and attitudes of the audience
Speaking clearly
using words that convey your meaning precisely
sensory language
words that appeal to seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling, and feeling
vivid language
words that are full of life
Specific language
words that narrow what is understood from the general category to a particular item or group within it
generic language
words used that apply to one co-cultural group as though they represent everyone
