keep it simple


 

Keep It Simple

 

Short words are best, and the old words when short are best of all.

― Winston Churchill

 

Use short words and simple writing.

 

For some reason, scientists prefer to use the word “utilize” instead of “use.” When I ask folks why, the response is “it sounds more scientific.” That is not a good reason to write poorly, and it’s pretentious. What is wrong with the word “use”?  

“Use” is a beautiful word: it’s three letters long and contains one syllable. Utilize has seven letters and three syllables. According to Merriam-Webster, the primary definition of “use” is “to put into action or service: avail oneself of” while the definition of “utilize” is “to make use of: turn to practical use or account.” In other words, they mean the same dang thing.

Consider the following:           

Utilize diminutive words in order to improve comprehensibility.

Now consider this rewrite:

Use small words to improve understanding.

Which one reads better?  Do not add complexity to your writing for no reason other than to sound scientific or smarter-than-thou. You are here to communication, not obfuscate.

In addition, scientists and bureaucrats default to convoluted writing. I believe this is an example of inertial writing—this is how those that came before us wrote and we shall continue the tradition.

Consider the following:

The totality of our group is inhabiting a subsurface oceanic vehicle that is the color of a ripe lemon.[1]

This could be rewritten as

            We all live in a yellow submarine.

Here’s another example:

In examining the audited statements, it is noted that a special expenditure was required in order to fulfill the mandate of our department with professionalism and commitment. In the course of time, and applying diligence and dedication, it is expected that this will be a non-repeating, non-redundant, non-requisitioned expenditure which will be brought under control for the purposes of budgetary harmony.[2]

that could be much improved by:

We spent too much money last year. We'll do better next time.

There are so many more examples of bad writing than good writing, so beware what you take as a good example. 

 

copyright Robert E. Mace 2025


[1] I’m not sure where I got this excellent example from.

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