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March 13, 2001
EXPOSITORY PATTERNS--PART VI
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DEFINITION
Using definition as an expository strategy means formally defining or explaining one or more key terms. Writing that typically relies on definition would include procedure manuals, guidelines, or process analyses.
The term requiring definition is introduced in a preliminary statement, usually the thesis if the document centers around the term. An example is a memo that explains a new security device that has been installed recently. If the document lists a series of steps as is commonly found in a procedure manual, each paragraph might emphasize a central term or action which is defined and then explained or illustrated.
Key terms should be formally and carefully explained so that readers will understand the concept and be able to use it appropriately. The distinguishing or identifying criteria of the concept also should be included in the definition, along with pertinent limits or boundaries.
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SPELLING OR WRITING TIP
Colloquial Language
All of us use informal diction or slang in everyday speech. In writing, however, it is wise to avoid using common expressions that should be reserved for casual conversation. Examples include the following:
Sam worked his tail off to get a promotion.
[BETTER: Sam worked overtime several days last month to get a promotion.]
How's your car running?
[BETTER: Have you had any problems with your car?]
Judi likes to party every weekend.
[BETTER: Judi likes to go out with friends every weekend.]
Brett sometimes will diss his friends.
[BETTER: Brett sometimes will insult his friends.]
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NEW WORD OF THE WEEK:
FALLOW (fal'o) adjective: Land that is plowed but unseeded; not pregnant.
Is Farmer Brown going to let his field lay fallow this year?
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YOUR GRAMMAR AND WRITING QUESTIONS
QUESTION: In the following sentence the phrase "are forced" is considered passive tense. Can you suggest the proper active tense? I realize there are two verbs in the sentence; is this correct usage?
The result is that many of America's seniors are forced to sacrifice adequate medical care.
Is this better:
Many of America's seniors must sacrifice adequate medical care.
GRAMMARCHECK: You're right on both counts. Your first construction uses passive voice in the phrase "are forced." But your second example fixes the problem by placing the word "seniors" in the subject position. Good work!
Using multiple verbs within one sentence does not constitute uncommon usage. Verbs can serve many diverse functions. Take care to use them correctly, however. (Look for more on verbs in an upcoming issue.)
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QUESTION: Can you tell me the correct uses of the words "effect" and "affect"? I'm a grant writer and often want to use these words, but I find myself steering away from them because I am so afraid I am using them incorrectly.
GRAMMARCHECK: Generally, use "effect" as a noun and "affect" as a verb:
EXAMPLES:
What effect [noun] did Jack's unemployment have on his wife?
How did Jack's unemployment affect [verb] his wife?
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QUESTION: When is the usage of "got" grammatically correct? It is used frequently in place of "have."
GRAMMARCHECK: The word "got" is the past tense and past participle of "get," and "get" means to obtain or acquire. "Have," on the other hand, means to possess or own. While the meanings are similar, the words are not interchangeable:
I have to go now.
NOT: I got to go now.
She has to get better soon.
NOT: She's got to get better soon.
The use of "got" in the above statement demonstrates colloquial use and should be avoided in most writing.
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QUESTION: Is "genuity" a word--as related to "ingenuity"? If so, please define.
GRAMMARCHECK: We cannot locate it in any of the well-known dictionaries. This seems to be one of those words that was "born" with "in" as its prefix.
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QUESTION: When writing about warranty items or warranty policies, which is correct--warranty or warrantee? I say it is warranty. How about this:
"Technicians will determine the guidelines for repairs not covered by warranty."
GRAMMARCHECK: You are correct! The use of "warranty" refers to a sanction, authorization, or warrant of a course of action or possession. But "warrantee" is the person to whom a warranty is made:
Did your new toaster come with a warranty?
Please send a copy of the policy to the new warrantee.
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