Plain English

In clear, straightforward language, as in The doctor's diagnosis was too technical; please tell us what he meant in plain English.

What is plain language example?

Plain language style involves everyday words and expressions in a familiar group context and may include contractions. Many people see plain language as an ethical means of communication. For example, one legal expert rewrote Instagram's terms of use to be in plain language, then showed her version to teenagers.

What are the principles of plain English?

How to write in plain English

• Keep your sentences short.
• Prefer active verbs.
• Use 'you' and 'we'
• Use words that are appropriate for the reader.
• Don't be afraid to give instructions.
• Avoid nominalisations.
• Use lists where appropriate.

How to speak in plain English?

How to Speak in Plain English

1. Use as few words as possible to make your point. Try not to add too many description words or details.
2. Don't unnecessarily combine sentences. ...
3. Get to the point and then explain it. ...
4. Use vocabulary and language that you and your audience are familiar with. ...
5. Use active verbs, not passive verbs.

What are the 5 principles of plain language?

Plain language is clear, concise, organized, and appropriate for the intended audience.

• Write for your reader, not yourself.
• Use pronouns when you can.
• State your major point(s) first before going into details.
• Stick to your topic.
• Limit each paragraph to one idea and keep it short.
• Write in active voice.

Why is plain English used?

Plain language means readers understand your documents more quickly. Readers call less often for explanations. They make fewer errors filling out forms. They comply more accurately and quickly with requirements.

What is the difference between plain English and plain language?

Even Wikipedia entries reflect this subtle difference in focus: Plain English is language that is easy to understand, emphasizes clarity and brevity, and avoids overly complex vocabulary. Plain language is writing designed to ensure the reader understands as quickly, easily, and completely as possible.

What is the opposite of plain English?

Plain English is clear and direct speech or writing in English. Also called plain language. The opposite of plain English goes by various names: bureaucratese, doublespeak, gibberish, gobbledygook, skotison.

What is the first rule of plain language?

The first rule of plain language is: write for your audience. Use language your audience knows and feels comfortable with.

What is plain language style?

The Plain Writing Act of 2010 defines plain language as: Writing that is clear, concise, well-organized, and follows other best practices appropriate to the subject or field and intended audience. Language that is plain to one set of readers may not be plain to others.

Which of the following are characteristics of plain English?

Plain language is writing designed to ensure the reader understands as quickly, easily, and completely as possible. Plain language strives to be easy to read, understand, and use. It avoids verbose, convoluted language and jargon.

What is plain talk language?

What is Plain Talk? Plain Talk messages are clear, concise and visually easy to read. They contain common words, rather than jargon, acronyms or unnecessary legal language.

How do I clear basic English?

8 Essential Tips for Clear Communication in English

1. Keep talking.
2. Find a good speaking rhythm. ...
3. Make sure you're understood. ...
4. Repeat what you're told. ...
5. Ask clarifying questions. ...
6. Watch your body language. ...
7. Use appropriate language. ...
8. Practice empathy.

How can I speak English at zero level?

Follow these five easy steps to make your English sound more fluent starting today.

1. Smile and breathe. No matter what your level of English, confidence is vital.
2. Memorize examples with vocabulary. Don't just memorize lists of words. ...
3. Listen to learn. ...
4. Exercise your mouth muscles. ...
5. Copy a native speaker.

How can I speak more clear in English?

How to Speak Clearly

1. Be relaxed and confident using relaxation exercises. You'll find them in the voice spa course.
2. Use abdominal breathing for speech.
3. Speak with pauses instead of filler words.
4. Be concise.
5. Use warmth & kindness.
6. Use a varied intonation pattern.
7. Use a full resonant voice.

How can I practice plain language?

Information Status

1. Write for your audience.
2. Use simple words and phrases. Avoid hidden verbs. Avoid noun strings. Avoid jargon. Minimize abbreviations. Minimize definitions. Use the same terms consistently. Place words carefully.

What is the simplest language in the world?

Riau Indonesian is different from most other languages in how simple it is. There are no endings of any substance, no tones, no articles, and no word order. There is only a little bit of indicating things in time.

What are the 4 language rules?

These include morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics and phonology.

What reading level is plain language?

Aim at an 8th grade reading level if targeting a broad audience. If writing for an educated or specialized audience, still target a reading level several steps below the audience's formal education level. A 12th grade reading level is often a good target to make text easy for readers with college degrees.

What students benefit from plain language?

Readers tend to put more faith in writing that's clear and straightforward. Using plain language means you're transparent — you're not hiding behind jargon, ambiguity, and acronyms. Plain language helps you connect with your readers, and build a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness.