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Feature Article
Monday, September 10, 2007
Aussiespeak: One More Reason For Controlled Vocabularies
Canadians do it. Italians do it. Brits and Mexicans do it. Chances are, you do it, too. We choose words—and turn phrases—that are difficult to translate. Our native languages are full of terms that are very hard—if not impossible—to translate into numerous target languages. In this increasingly global marketplace, we need to understand how our choice of words can negatively impact our message.
One resource that can help you better understand the implications of ambiguous word usage is a new book entitled Undiplomatic Activities, by former diplomat Richard Woolcott. The book chronicles the problems created when cheerful Aussies sling slang abroad. According to a report in The Week, Former Prime Minister Bob Hawke, for example, tried to brush off a questioner in Japan by saying, “I am not here to play funny buggers”—which in Australia means to split hairs. The translator rendered it as, “I am not here to play laughing homosexuals.”
One more reason for adopting controlled vocabularies.
Filed under: Content Quality Management : Plain Language : Simplified Technical English
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The Plain English Campaign: Fighting For Crystal Clear Communication
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
The Plain English Campaign officially began in 1979, after founder Chrissie Maher publicly shredded hundreds of official documents in Parliament Square, London. Entirely independent, the campaign funds itself through its commercial services, which include editing and training. The organization provides some great examples of clear communication (see before and after) and seeks examples of horrid, jargon-laden writing from the public. Send examples to the Plain English Campaign today. If you’re really interested in crystal clear communication, you’ll want to subscribe to Plain English magazine.
Previously published issues of the magazine are available online.
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