Engaging the Reader: Using Positive Language to Implement an Effective Tone

 

Avoid words with "no" in them

Quick Reference: Implementing an Effective Tone
  • Avoid words with "no" in them.
  • Find words that make your "no" messages positive.
  • Replace equivocal language with authoritative language.
  • Use empowering language when referring to people who are coping difficult problems.

HelpGram should be uplifting, energetic, and motivational in tone. They should be saturated with information that the reader can act upon. Since we aim to empower our readers to improve their lives, we want to avoid negative phrases as much as possible in our HelpGrams.

In general, avoid the following words, unless they're essential to your point:

Negative Words to Avoid Don't
  • can't
  • couldn't
  • didn't
  • don't
  • never
  • no
  • not
  • wasn't
  • weren't
  • won't
  • wouldn't

Only use the words above if there's no other way to communicate your point. For example, don't say "not honest," say dishonest. Find words that make your "no" message as positive as possible.

Use authoritative language

Writers who use authoritative language sound more credible. In addition, authoritative language amplifies the power of your message.

Here are some examples of ways to revise equivocal language:

Revising Equivocal Language
Equivocal Words Don't
RevisionsDo
can will
may is, will
might is, will
maybe will
should do
would will, was

Use language that empowers readers

Since we aim to empower our users, we must avoid using negative language when referring to people who are dealing with difficult situations.

Always avoid the following terms in reference to people:

Negative Words & Phrases to Avoid in Reference to People Don't
  • helpless
  • hopeless
  • need help
  • powerless
  • sufferers
  • victims

Here are some ways to revise negative phrases, such as the ones listed above:

Revising Negative Language
Negative Phrases Don't
Revisions Do
if you need help with a problem if you want to improve a problem
infected with
  • carrying
  • coping with
  • dealing with
  • harboring
  • living with
suffering from
  • coping with
  • dealing with
  • enduring
  • living with
  • surviving
victim survivor
victimized by attacked

 

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