Great one, Antonia! If we're college-educated or politically active, it takes a lot of effort to scrub these words from our vocabulary and really speaks to the need for working class people to be running for office and writing speeches.
Very good. Mandatory reading for the political consultants. Timing and messengers are missing in much of today's messaging.
I can't help but add that when Trump announced a 10% across-the-board tariff, why didn’t Democrats call it what it is — a 10% tax on your groceries, auto parts, appliances, and small business supplies? Voters understand “tax,” not “tariff.” .
BTW “Folks” is wearing thin in middle America, and “ threat to one's existence” sounds academic. How about: your family’s bills will rise, and your family’s future will get worse. Call it clearly and repeat it.
This is a great piece. For me, 90% of the jargon comes from PR people and speech writers who want to come off as smart. Here’s one you can add: houseless vs homeless.
People without a place to live are homeless, not houseless. Houseless implies that one needs to live in a house, not an apartment or even a dorm, but a house. And…it’s a damn awkward word that’s come out of nowhere.
Brilliant as usual. However, I’m going to disagree with everyday people. I hear everyday people and I immediately hear the song by Sly and the Family Stone. Even so, it’s a common enough phrase.
Great one, Antonia! If we're college-educated or politically active, it takes a lot of effort to scrub these words from our vocabulary and really speaks to the need for working class people to be running for office and writing speeches.
Very good. Mandatory reading for the political consultants. Timing and messengers are missing in much of today's messaging.
I can't help but add that when Trump announced a 10% across-the-board tariff, why didn’t Democrats call it what it is — a 10% tax on your groceries, auto parts, appliances, and small business supplies? Voters understand “tax,” not “tariff.” .
BTW “Folks” is wearing thin in middle America, and “ threat to one's existence” sounds academic. How about: your family’s bills will rise, and your family’s future will get worse. Call it clearly and repeat it.
In this case, I was not recommending the optimal thing to say, but just an appropriate alternative to the original phrase. 😉
I don’t know how to emphasize gratitude on substance, but thank you very much for what you write. And you’re right
Love this! I have made a few mistakes but I can get it right. That's what life long learners do!
This is a great piece. For me, 90% of the jargon comes from PR people and speech writers who want to come off as smart. Here’s one you can add: houseless vs homeless.
People without a place to live are homeless, not houseless. Houseless implies that one needs to live in a house, not an apartment or even a dorm, but a house. And…it’s a damn awkward word that’s come out of nowhere.
Yup. That one goes right next to food insecurity.
Excellent speaking tips. Drop the high brow -- intelligent speakers use the language that their audience uses and understands.
Brilliant as usual. However, I’m going to disagree with everyday people. I hear everyday people and I immediately hear the song by Sly and the Family Stone. Even so, it’s a common enough phrase.
I do love the song! But I still hate the phrase.