Awkward phrasing

Definition

Awkward phrasing refers to sentence constructions that are clumsy, confusing, or unnatural, making it difficult for readers to understand the intended message. This often happens when sentences are overly complicated, use incorrect word order, or include unnecessary jargon. Identifying and correcting awkward phrasing is crucial in producing clear and engaging long-form journalism that maintains the reader's interest and conveys information effectively.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Awkward phrasing can lead to reader frustration, causing them to lose interest or misinterpret the content.
2. Self-editing techniques for long-form journalism often involve reading sentences aloud to identify awkward phrases that disrupt flow.
3. Replacing jargon with simpler language can help avoid awkward phrasing and enhance readability.
4. Using active voice instead of passive voice can reduce awkwardness in phrasing, making sentences more direct and engaging.
5. Awkward phrasing can be minimized by breaking long sentences into shorter ones, which often enhances clarity.

Review Questions

• How does awkward phrasing impact the reader's experience in long-form journalism?
  • Awkward phrasing significantly impacts the reader's experience by creating confusion and frustration. When sentences are poorly constructed or overly complicated, readers may struggle to grasp the main ideas, leading to disengagement. This can result in a lack of understanding of key points in the article, diminishing the overall effectiveness of the piece and potentially turning readers away from future content.
• In what ways can self-editing techniques improve the clarity of writing by addressing awkward phrasing?
  • Self-editing techniques such as reading aloud, simplifying complex structures, and utilizing active voice can greatly enhance writing clarity by addressing awkward phrasing. When writers read their work out loud, they can hear how sentences flow and identify spots where awkwardness occurs. Additionally, consciously choosing simpler language and shorter sentences helps convey ideas more directly, improving readability and engagement for the audience.
• Evaluate the role of feedback in identifying and correcting awkward phrasing in long-form journalism.
  • Feedback plays a crucial role in identifying and correcting awkward phrasing by providing an external perspective on the clarity and coherence of writing. Peers or editors can point out areas where phrasing may confuse or mislead readers, allowing writers to refine their work. Incorporating constructive criticism not only helps eliminate awkward phrases but also strengthens overall writing skills by encouraging writers to think critically about their word choices and sentence structures.

Related terms

Clarity: The quality of being easily understood, free from ambiguity, which is essential for effective communication in writing.

Conciseness: The practice of expressing ideas in a clear and brief manner, avoiding unnecessary words that may dilute the message.

Sentence Structure: The arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences, playing a vital role in how clearly a writer communicates ideas.