Deep-six these fast-track cliches from your output. (Editing).
If language is a currency, as we've observed before, it can be seriously devalued by jargon, cliches, and trendy buzz words.Avoid the following words and phrases in your writing and speaking if you want to maintain the full value of your communication--that is, if you want your readers and listeners to actually read what you've written and to listen to what you're saying:
* address (when used as a verb in any context except addressing envelopes and audiences)
* at the end of the day
* ballpark
* benchmark (both noun and especially verb)
* best practice
* bottom line
* client focus(ed)
* core competencies
* empower (or empowerment)
* fast track
* game plan
* knowledge base
* leverage
* mindset
* out of the loop
* proactive
* result-driven
* revisit
* strategic fit
* synergy
* take that off-line
* think outside the box
* touch base
* 24/7
* value-added
* win-win
There's even a game circulating on the internet whose name we'll render as Bullpucky Bingo. It's designed to help energize tedious office meetings and long and boring conference calls. Here's how it's played:
Before your next meeting, prepare a "Bullpucky Bingo" card by drawing a 5" x 5" square. Divide the square into five columns--five across and five down. This will give you 25 one-inch blocks.
Then write one of the words or phrases listed above in each block. When you hear a speaker use one of them, check off the appropriate block.
When you get five blocks checked off horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, stand up and shout "Bullpucky Bingo."
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| Publication: | The Newsletter on Newsletters |
|---|---|
| Date: | Oct 3, 2002 |
| Words: | 244 |
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