Speaking Tips

Word Wise

Whatever we say, when we speak publicly, has to go in through listeners' ears. And so we have to write for listeners' ears, not our mouths.

To write for the ear, we can use some tried and tested methods. Bob Abbott, a newsletter publisher and member of Airdrie Discovery Toastmasters, says, “For starters, use short words whenever possible. Examples include 'many' rather than 'numerous'; 'use' rather than 'utilize'; and 'need' rather than 'require'.

“Another way to write for the ear is to use common words rather than jargon or technical words. Step back from your speech, after it's written, and ask yourself if you've used words that a child would understand.

“We also want vivid words, words that fire up our imagination, that paint new images in our minds. Descriptive words that convey action and emotion, words that drive ideas into our heads like freight trains roaring down the rails.

“Use active verbs and not passive verbs. Banish words like 'is', and 'are'. Check every sentence for the word 'being' and rewrite the sentence to get rid of it. Bring in verbs that do something.”

Bob adds, “Now that you've taken out most big words, put the remaining words into short sentences. One short sentence. Followed by another short sentence. But, every once in while add a longer sentence for variety and to reduce the chances of boring your audience. Still, keep the ideas simple within those long sentences.”

Other Speaking Tips articles from Airdrie Discovery Toastmasters:

It's Okay to be Nervous

Show and Tell, Adult Style

How to Persuade Your Audience

How Should I Speak?

Making Introductions

Members of the non-profit Airdrie Discovery Toastmasters Club help each other learn to speak confidently, introduce other speakers, and more. For more information, visit our home page at: http://www.airdrie-toastmasters.com

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