Chapter 4 - Using An Appropriate Style
Using Familiar Words (LO1)
Instructions: Sentences 1-20: Assume that your readers are about tenth-grade level in education. Revise these sentences for easy communication to this audience.
1. We must terminate all deficit financing.
2. We must endeavor to correct this problem by expediting delivery.
Selecting Concrete Words (LO3)
26. Some years ago she made good money.
27. His grade on the aptitude test was not high.
Using Proper Idiom (LO5)
Instructions: 60-67. These sentences use faulty idioms. Make any changes you think are necessary.
43. The purchasing officer has gone in search for a substitute product.
45. This strike was different than the one in 2000.
Limiting Use of Passive Voice (LO6)
51. Our action is based on the assumption that the competition will be taken by surprise.
52. It is believed by the typical union member that his or her welfare is not considered to be important by management.
Avoiding Camouflaged Verbs (LO6)
58. It was my duty to make a determination of the damages.
59. Harold made a recommendation that we fire Mr. Shultz.
Avoiding Discriminatory Language (LO7)
Instructions: Sentences 68-77. Eliminate the discriminatory language in these sentences.
69. Any worker who ignores this rule will have his salary reduced.
70. The typical postman rarely makes mistakes in delivering his mail.
Making Sentences Economical (LO8)
Instructions: Sentences 86-113. Revise the following sentences for more economical wording.
81. In view of the fact that we financed the experiment, we were entitled to some profit.
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Chapter 4 - Using An Appropriate Style
89. It is essential that we take the actions that are necessary to correct the problem.
Using a Conversational Style (LO12)
Instructions: Sentences 134-142. Rewrite the following in conversational style.
145. Attached please find receipt requested in your May 1 st inquiry.
152. Kindly advise the director as to your availability for participation in the program.
Using the You-Viewpoint (LO13)
Instructions: Sentences 143-156. Rewrite the following using you-viewpoint.
153. Company policy requires that you must submit the warranty agreement within two weeks of
sale.
159. We are happy to report approval of your application for membership.
Accenting the Positive (LO12)
Instructions: Sentences 157-171. Underscore all negative words in these sentences. Then rewrite the sentence situations for positive effect. Use your imagination to supply situation information when necessary.
169. We regret that we must call your attention to our policy of prohibiting refunds for merchandise
bought at a discount.
171. You cannot visit the plant except on Saturdays.
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