Discuss the stylistic resources that can increase the clarity of a speaker's message.

What will be an ideal response?


- Concrete words: make a message easier to understand. Abstract words force the audience to try and decipher the message.
- Maxims: familiar statements to most people that can be used to describe an idea or situation. Memorable phrases make a connection with the audience.
- Limiting jargon, defining technical terms: specialized terms in specific areas of knowledge should be avoided unless the entire audience is aware of the term. Unknown language makes the audience feel like outsiders. If technical terms must be used, a speaker should define them.
- Word economy: speakers should use words efficiently and avoid unnecessary words. Overly complex sentences, excessive use of adjectives and adverbs, and needless qualifiers distract from the message.
- Active voice: this is much more personable than passive voice and usually requires fewer and simpler words to express an idea.

Communication & Mass Media

You might also like to view...

The central idea of a speech is to state whether it will explain, describe, demonstrate, or report

Indicate whether the statement is true or false.

Communication & Mass Media

Manuel told the audience that the community was suffering from high taxes and unemployment. He then described how poor decisions at the state government level had created these issues. Which organizational pattern is Manuel using?

A. topical B. spatial C. effect-cause D. chronological

Communication & Mass Media

The perceptual process in which you’re more influenced by what you sense first is ___________

a. proximity b. primacy c. recency d. consistency

Communication & Mass Media

The Greek philosopher _________ formulated guidelines for speakers that we still follow today

Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).

Communication & Mass Media