Plain language as a bridge where there is no shared culture
In diverse settings, we can’t rely on “common sense” to communicate. That’s why we need plain language: to make the unspokens explicit. In 2022, I went to Tokyo to attend …
Tag: international audiences
Non-designers: Designing for better readability
Making your text more readable will help you reach more people. Readability isn’t about making things look pretty. It’s about making your written word accessible to a wide audience. That …
Are phrasal verbs difficult? Writing for international readers
Looking up phrasal verbs in a dictionary is a pain. That’s why you may want to reconsider using them if you’re writing for non-fluent English speakers. Plain language guidelines suggest …
Some contractions are easier than others: Writing for international readers
Do you use contractions (like “it’s” and “don’t”) in your writing? I do! But some kinds of contractions may be easier than others for readers to follow. Do you use …
Writing clear English for diverse audiences
We’re advised to tailor our writing to our audiences. But what if our intended audience is very diverse? What can we do to write as clearly as possible?
PODCAST: How to write effectively & inclusively, on Tandem Nomads
Yikes, I was interviewed on the Tandem Nomads podcast! We talked about how to write effective and inclusive content.
Presenting in clear English for diverse audiences
Need to present to a diverse, international audience? Here are some tips.
What’s wrong with “native speaker”? Plus ESL, ELL, EFL…alphabet soup!
In reality, a “native English speaker” means people who are from a Western English-speaking country. The term is used to exclude anyone who doesn’t fit into that group, no matter …
BOOK: The Elements of International English Style, by Edmond H. Weiss
Ever wonder how to write English suited for international readers? Edward Weiss’s Elements of International English Style is a comprehensive and thoughtful guide that gives concrete strategies while being sensitive …
Plain language vs. Easy English
Plain language’s aim is to ensure that people can access (understand and use) the information they need to lead better lives. But there’s also Easy English. The two share core …