English, as well as many other languages is constantly changing and Busy Bee Editing has to try to keep pace with such changes.
Nevertheless, certain modes of usage, although often ignored by professors and authoritative experts in many fields, including scientists, journalists, news anchors, civil servants etc. you name it – are considered by many users as correct.
We believe that usually these phrases or words are simply unnecessary verbiage which the users mistakenly consider more impressive than simply using straightforward clean English. They add nothing to the meaning of what is being said or written.
We, as editors, have to maintain acceptable standards so, from time-to-time, we remind English language users of common mistakes that appear in the manuscripts we handle every day, which we edit or that simply pop-up constantly in speeches, advertising, on TV, etc.
Here they are: These are definite NO NOs!
at this particular moment in time – Just say ‘at this time, at the moment, right now etc.
more unique or very unique – just say unique
impacts on – just say impacts
comprises of – just say comprises
most probably – just say – probably or perhaps or it is likely that …
voiced out – just say – voiced
HESITATION PHRASES OR WORDS
These add nothing to meaning but simply allow a speaker a breathing space so the brain can catch-up with his/her speech or breathing.
“err …” This has to be a pause in the speaker’s thought process. We all do it, but some people do it excessively.
“you know” when the person who is making a speech or talking to you keeps saying You Know, it is extremely irritating, but even very accomplished speakers do this, including myself.
“like” (This is a favourite among younger speakers – but many speakers including yours truly, drop a “like” here or there).
Speakers should try and cut down on these “crutches” wherever possible, because they can be quite annoying for the listener.
The next set of guidelines will deal with excess verbiage in phrases and paragraphs.
Wishing Good Luck to all the students, graduates, business people and entrepeneurs we deal with. May it bring much happiness and success to all of you as we continue to grapple with life for the rest of this tumultuous year, and heartfelt thanks go to all who make use of all our services.
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