Quick
Reference: Implementing an Effective Tone
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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
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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.
Writers who use authoritative language sound more credible. In addition, authoritative language amplifies the power of your message.
Revising
Equivocal Language
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Equivocal
Words
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Revisions
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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.
Negative
Words & Phrases to Avoid in Reference to People
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Revising
Negative Language
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Negative
Phrases ![]() |
Revisions
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if you need help with a problem | if you want to improve a problem |
infected with |
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suffering from |
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victim | survivor |
victimized by | attacked |
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