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Chapter 12
Using Words Well:
Speaker Language
and Style
“A speech is
poetry; cadence,
rhythm, imagery,
sweep! A speech
reminds us that
words, like chil
dren, have the
power to make
dance the dull
est beanbag of a
heart.”
—Peggy Noonan
12.1 Differentiating Oral and Written
Language Styles
12.2 Using Words Effectively
Use Specific, Concrete Words
Use Simple Words
Use Words Correctly
Use Words Concisely
12.3 Adapting Your Language Style to
Diverse Listeners
Use Language That Your Audience
Can Understand
Use Respectful Language
Use Unbiased Language
Outline
(continued)