Copyright © 2012 by Pearson Education, Inc.

Copyright © 2012 by Pearson Education, Inc.

CHAPTER 30: WORD CHOICE

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CHAPTER OUTLINE AND LEARNING OBJECTIVES

In this chapter, you will learn to: identify examples of wordiness, slang, and

cliches and gain an appreciation for precise word choice (

diction) in your writing.

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PRECISE LANGUAGE Pay close attention to word choice while

writing Be careful to use precise language and avoid

wordiness, cliches, and slang.

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WORDINESS As you revise and edit, check for wordiness:

the use of extra words.

Strive to be precise and direct.

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CLICHES Cliches are worn-out expressions. Avoid using cliches in your writing.

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SLANG Slang is an informal vocabulary frequently

used during conversations among friends. It is also used by fiction writers when they try

to create realistic dialogue. Avoid using slang in formal writing

assignments.

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WHICH SENTENCE IS AN EXAMPLE OF PRECISE LANGUAGE?

A. He gave me a smile.B. Yesterday, I scored 100 on my quiz.C. I made lots of money.D. Julie is a friend.

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WHICH SENTENCE IS AN EXAMPLE OF PRECISE LANGUAGE?

A. He gave me a smile.B. Yesterday, I scored 100 on my quiz.C. I made lots of money.D. Julie is a friend.

gain an appreciation for precise word choice (diction) in your writing.

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FIND AN EXAMPLE OF SLANG

A. make ends meetB. in the blink of an eyeC. got game

Copyright © 2012 by Pearson Education, Inc.

FIND AN EXAMPLE OF SLANG

A. make ends meetB. in the blink of an eyeC. got game

identify examples of wordiness, slang, and cliches