14. Use Specific Language

14. Use specific language:

-“Prefer the specific to the general, the definite to the vague, the concrete to the abstract….It is not that every detail is given-that would be impossible, as well as to no purpose-but that all the significant details are given, and with such accuracy and vigor that the reader, in imagination, can project himself into the scene.” (E.B. White The Elements of Style).

-All significant details are provided in description, narration, and analysis.

-All general statements are followed by specific illustrations of the general principle

-Avoid use of the following vague terms or phrases:

-“something,” “or something,” “a lot,” “very,” “talks about,” “nice,” “pretty,” “and stuff,” “beautiful,” “little,” “rather,” “really” “thing,” “ok,” “etc.,” “cool,” “like (not used in a simile),” “kind of,” “sort of,” “interesting,” “meaningful,” “unique,” “utilize,” “good,” “bad,” “excellent,” “awesome...”

Vague, tentative language:

I have lived with the migrant workers. I have personally observed their inadequate living conditions and their unappetizing food. I have seen evidence of their malnutrition. And I have observed their strenuous labor as they pick various kinds of fruits and vegetables.

Definite, Specific, Concrete Language:

I have lived with migrant workers. I have seen their hovels: two room units separated only by plasterboard, with five such units in a single wooden frame barracks. I have shared the supper of stale beans and sow’s ear. I have see evidence of their malnutrition: the dull eyes, the thinning hair, the lean, twisted limbs, the gaps among their decaying teeth as they smile in hospitality. And I have watched their work: ten hours of bending their backs in 90 degree heat to pick tomatoes and strawberries and bending even further over to cut asparagus spears and lettuce.