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Boundless Communications
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Communications

Chapter 11

Wording the Speech

Book Version 5
By Boundless
Boundless Communications
Communications
by Boundless
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Section 1
Understanding Language
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The Importance of Language

Language, from verbal to non-verbal communication, helps your audience understand your speech.

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Ways of Thinking About Language

It's important to consider language from multiple contexts and factors when crafting your speech to be as effective as it can be.

Section 2
Variations in Language
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Variations in Directness

Use force and directness to add dynamic contrast and texture to your speech.

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Variations in Abstraction

While abstract descriptions should usually be avoided, abstraction can be used to your advantage when used correctly.

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Variations in Objectivity

Ideally, strive for a balance between subjectivity and objectivity in your speech.

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Variations in Orality

Orality is thought and verbal expression in societies where the technologies of literacy (writing) are unfamiliar to most of the population.

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Variations in Accuracy

Make sure all sources of information for your speech are accurate, reliable, unbiased, credible, and current.

Section 3
Using Language Effectively
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Choosing Clear Words and Phrasing

Choose clear words and phrasing in your speech by fully understanding your topic through delimiting the question and defining key terms.

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Choosing Vivid Words

Don't lose audience interest by having a boring speech; use descriptive language to build interest and make your points more creatively.

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Choosing Appropriate Words

Consider the style, tone, and sections of your speech to determine the most appropriate words and phrases.

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Matching Personal Style

Matching your personal style in your speech by defining your voice will take time and practice.

Section 4
Deploying Style Effectively
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Alliteration

Alliteration is a stylistic device whereby a series of words begin with the same consonant sound, which can help your audience's listening.

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Antithesis

Anthesis adds stylistic texture to your speech through the presentation of contrasting ideas and an opposite point of view.

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Hyperbole

Hyperbole is the use of exaggeration or overstatement to get your point across to your audience.

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Onomatopoeia

Onomatopoeia is a stylistic choice to represent sound within words and can be used as an attention-getting device in your speech.

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Personification

Personification can refer to speaking as another person or thing, or assigning human qualities to a non-human animal, object or idea.

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Repetition and Parallelism

Repetition and parallelism can add clarity and dramatic punch to your speech.

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Simile and Metaphor

Simile and metaphor are creative ways of making comparisons in your speech.

Section 5
Understanding Bias in Language
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Gender Bias

Gender bias exists because of the social construction and language of gender itself; recognize it and try to avoid it when speaking.

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Culture Bias

We all carry cultural biases, intentional or otherwise; try to find and address cultural bias within your speech.

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Boundless Communications by Boundless
Previous Chapter
Chapter 10
Organizing and Outlining the Speech
  • Principles of Organization
  • Main Points
  • Introduction
  • Conclusion
  • Transitions
and 1 more sections...
Current Chapter
Chapter 11
Wording the Speech
  • Understanding Language
  • Variations in Language
  • Using Language Effectively
  • Deploying Style Effectively
  • Understanding Bias in Language
Next Chapter
Chapter 12
Delivering the Speech
  • Methods of Delivery
  • Speaking in the Real World
  • Effective Vocal Delivery
  • Effective Visual Delivery
  • Interaction in Public Speaking
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