Intoxicated by Verbosity

“Don’t use a big word when a minuscule alternative will suffice.” It’s an old joke, but one that makes an important point: Big words are like fine jewels—you may take them out for special occasions, but they’re not for everyday use. No matter what you’re writing, you want your words to be read and understood.

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“You Said What?” Saying What You Mean, and How to Say It

Does the word discuss mean the same as present? Or healthcare the same as health care? Some would say yes; some, no. The fact is, we don’t always agree on the meanings of words. But if we don’t always agree on the meanings of words, do we always know what we’re saying to each other? Not necessarily.

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The Associated Press Stylebook 2018: Keeping With the Times

A bit belatedly, this blog will highlight some changes in the latest edition of the AP Stylebook. For a general overview, also see the What’s New section at the front of the guide. Generally, the main sections have been shuffled around a bit. There is a new Polls and Surveys section that takes the place

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That 3 p.m. Haze

It’s 3 p.m. Your eyes have glazed over from staring at a computer, you’ve talked to a mind-numbing number of people, and—against your will—the afternoon haze has begun to set in. Have no fear, your wake-up call is here! Who doesn’t struggle with that feeling of “I just need to look at something else for

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Renewed Appreciation

Copyeditors often work under the “no news is good news” principle. We complete our step in the publication process, hand the content along for review or layout, and turn to the next urgent edit in our pile. We may even worry when we see a response from a client about a project we finished pop

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