Effective Language in Public Speaking: Enhancing Communication & Connection
Language is a powerful tool that reflects our culture and identity in public speaking. Using effective language can bridge connections with audiences while avoiding common pitfalls like sexist or racist language. Understanding denotative and connotative meanings is crucial for clarity and emotional resonance. Public speakers should strive for inclusivity and accuracy, choosing their words carefully. Techniques such as alliteration, metaphor, and repetition can enhance engagement, making their messages memorable. This guide helps you navigate language choices for effective communication.
Effective Language in Public Speaking: Enhancing Communication & Connection
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Presentation Transcript
Public Speaking Choosing Effective Language
Language reflects culture • What we say identifies where we came/come from • Soda, pop, coke • Gender plays a role in language • Females say plum, lavender, lilac • Males say purple
Words & Meaning • Denotative meaning – dictionary definition • Ambiguous meaning – words that stand for more than one idea. • Pot • Round container • Sum of money • Enclosed frame to catch fish, lobster • Marijuana • ruin
Words & Meaning • Connotative meaning – emotional overtones words carry • Police officers • Can be positive or negative depending on experiences • Jargon – specialized, technical vocabulary
What to avoid • Language that shows favoritism • Sexist language • Ageist language • Racist language • Nonparallel language • Actor-actress • male nurse-female judge • Stereotypes • Athletes as stupid • Native Americans as alcoholics
What to Avoid • Slurs • Little old lady, gramps, old hag • Dismissive language • Over the hill, white trash • Emphasis on differences • Latina nurse or African American professor
Use Language Effectively • Use accurate language • know pronunciations and definitions • Be appropriate • Speak to audience – use language for audience
Be Interesting • Alliteration • “Choose change or chase it.” • Rhyming • Repetition • Important words, phrases • Personification • Hyperbole • Metaphor • Simile