2 ms·
As a counterpoint, I think context matters the _least_. I've read a lot of business writing where the writer's mindset is clearly:I am writing for business, th
by morley 4y ago
As a counterpoint, I think context matters the _least_.
I've read a lot of business writing where the writer's mindset is clearly:I am writing for business, therefore I must sound business-like. Lots of "in terms of", "for the purpose of", "ideation", "develop needs", "affect change", "going forward". From what I hear and from what little I've read, a similar overwrought voice has developed in academia too.
I've fallen into this trap before, partially to "fit in" and partially because it's hard to simplify. But many famous business communicators -- Steve Jobs and Warren Buffett come to mind -- show that clarity is more effective than sounding like the context.
- littlelady 4y agoI neither intended to imply that a writer must sound exactly like their context, nor did I intend for context to be interpreted as a style that a writer should achieve or imitate. What I meant by context was: (1) For whom is the writing intended? (2) What is the purpose of the writing? (3) What is the intended tone? (1) Is the reader an academic? New to a subject? An expert? A layperson? How old are they? (2) Is the purpose of this text to inform? To persuade? To entertain? To instruct? (3) Optimistic, pessimistic, uplifting, formal, casual? The most effective communicators will have a consistent (and unique) voice whether writing a newspaper article, a college text book, or a toast. I believe strong communicators consider the context of their writing or speaking.