When writing to diplomatic missions or within international organizations, the goal is often clarity wrapped in courtesy and neutrality. Diplomatic language softens directness, avoids blame… Read More »Switching between diplomatic and plain English writing
When we write at work, we usually have to be factual, clear and direct. At other times, though, we need to express ourselves more cautiously… Read More »Hedging language
Are you still using expressions like any of these? “Kindly be advised” or “Please be informed” or “Kindly note that” “for your reference and perusal”… Read More »Are you writing emails in an old-fashioned style?
Well, not quite. They can make you sound pompous, long-winded and old-fashioned. In most communications today, long words are inappropriate and may confuse your reader.… Read More »Long words make me sound sophisticated, right?
Passive voice shifts the responsibility and can sound impersonal. The active voice puts the person back into the writing and makes the reader feel included.… Read More »Use active voice in your correspondence
Today in international organizations, we’re writing emails to so many different people in different locations that our email language is sounding less and less English… Read More »Unfortunate email beginnings
Generative AI (GenAI) tools are software applications powered by artificial intelligence that can create new content, designs, or data based on the prompts or training… Read More »What is Generative AI and how can I use it when writing emails?
In professional writing, “sorry” can convey an apology, empathy, responsibility, bad news or a desire to maintain positive relations. But its usage requires caution. According… Read More »“Sorry!”: a word with multiple meanings
When we’re writing emails at work, it’s important to distinguish between casual usage and more formal language. A casual tone is appropriate when we’re writing… Read More »Getting the tone right in emails
Use of Miss, Mrs., Ms. and Dr.Titles and their usage often vary from one culture to another. In French, for example, Mademoiselle and Madame relate… Read More »How to address people in work-related correspondence