Everyday Grammar: Simplify Your Language to Sound Smarter

John: Dr. Jill, can you help me with this memo?
Jill: Sure, John, what is it for?
John: I have to explain the new office rules to our coworkers.
Jill: Okay, read me the first part. You know, as government workers, we have to write in Plain English – to save time and communicate better.
John: Our plan, at this point in time, is to return to the office next month…
Jill: Hold on – make that “We plan to return to the office next month.”
John: Oh, that’s shorter – and clearer. The next part is, “Each employee is required to wear masks in the building and in his or her own office.”
Jill: How about this? “You must wear a mask in your office.”
John: That’s simple! Alright…
Jill: If you want others to understand your message, short and simple is better. Want to try making this shorter? “All employees are asked to make sure they are vaccinated before returning to work.”
John (reads from his notes): I know – “Get your shots before you come back to work!”
Jill: Perfect! So next time you write a memo, try to make the sentences simple and clear. Then it will be easier for everyone to understand. And that’s Everyday Grammar!


Originally published at - https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a...