What is “word choice”?: Difference between revisions

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They did not notice their errors.
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===More Examples===


Incorrect word choice:
== Effects of Word Choice ==


:The media often <i>personifies</i> teenagers as irresponsible, violent, and carefree.


"Personify” means “to represent an object or abstraction by a human figure” and therefore is and inappropriate word choice. An accurate word would be “portray” (among others):
Along with definition use, word choice also dictates the tone of your writing. Biases, discrimination, preferences, and personel views can all be illustrated through the writers word choice. Many writers attempt to use subtle implications of their views while others use more obvious forms. Choosing which words to use and what implications they convey is critical to appealing to the intended audience. Writers must always "be alert to the ways language can reflect and perhaps reinforce biases" (Sutcliffe 6). Along with biases, offensive language is not restricted to obvious slurs, "offensive language can take more sublte forms" as well (Hacker W4-f 138). However, the right word in a sentece can make it all the more compelling, "[good] usage adds force, precision, and credibility to all writing" (Sutcliffe 6). Words can help the write appeal to the audiences emotions and feelings on the subject (Barnet 136). The word choice that an author chooses is crucial to how the writing turns out and it must always be monitered to ensure it follows the author's purpose.  


:The media often <i>portrays</i> teenagers as irresponsible, violent, and carefree.
 
== Works Cited ==
Sutcliffe, Andrea J. ed. ''The New York Public Library Writer's Guide to Style and Usage.'' New York: Stonsong Press Book, 1994.
 
Hacker, Diana. ''A Writer's Reference.'' 5th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's, 2003
 
Barnet, Slyvan, and Huga Bedau. ''From Critical Thinking to Argument: A Portable Guide.'' Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's, 2005   


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[[Composition FAQ]]
[[Composition FAQ]]
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