Keep it short and simple
Some words and phrases just complicate the language without adding value. Don’t use a complex style because you think it has more authority and meaning. Look out for these simple swaps to improve your writing.
Simplify functional phrases for precision
- in
- for, to
- with
- to
- about, for, to
- without
- if
- contained in
- for the purpose of
- in conjunction with
- in order to
- in relation to, with regards to
- in the absence of
- in the event that
Avoid complex phrases for readability
- during
- for 3 years
- promptly, soon, on time
- is recruiting
- manages
- regularly
- the risks of
- during the course of
- for a period of 3 years
- in a timely manner
- is in the process of recruiting
- is responsible for the management of
- on a regular basis
- the risks associated with
Trim the process detail for efficiency
- because
- after, at the end of
- in line with, under
- despite, although
- most
- the rest of
- use
- as a consequence of, due to the fact that
- at the conclusion of
- in accordance with, pursuant to
- notwithstanding
- the majority of
- the remainder of
- utilisation
Enjoy the benefits
Plain language makes your documents more effective and persuasive. Use our simple swaps and take a look at the before-and-after example below to see what a difference plain language makes!
Before: The company may require an audit of the business comprising an examination of such business records as necessary to ascertain financial results for the period in question.
After: We might need to audit your business records to confirm the financial results for the period.
Let us help
As Australia’s leading plain language company, we deliver hundreds of training courses every year. Our participants come away with vastly improved writing skills and a newfound enthusiasm for communicating with clarity and precision.
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