How to Say It Orally, But for the Written Word
We speak differently than we write. Our spoken language is often casual, filled with contractions, colloquialisms, and interjections. Written language, however, requires a different approach. It needs to be clear, concise, and engaging, even without the benefit of tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language. This article explores the techniques for translating the natural flow and impact of spoken language into compelling written content.
Bridging the Gap Between Speech and Writing
The key lies in understanding the nuances of both mediums. Spoken language relies heavily on context, shared understanding, and non-verbal cues. Written language needs to be more explicit, providing all the necessary information within the text itself.
1. Embrace a Conversational Tone (But Write it Out):
While avoiding slang and overly casual language, aim for a conversational tone. This means writing in a friendly, approachable style that feels natural and engaging to the reader. Imagine you're speaking directly to them. However, write out those contractions and informal phrases. Instead of "gonna," write "going to." Instead of "wanna," write "want to."
2. Structure for Clarity:
Oral communication often relies on impromptu shifts in topic. Written content benefits from a clear and logical structure. Use headings, subheadings, bullet points, and numbered lists to break up text and guide the reader through your points. This improves readability and comprehension, mirroring the natural pauses and emphasis of spoken language.
3. Use Strong Verbs and Active Voice:
Active voice makes your writing more direct and impactful. Instead of "The report was written by John," write "John wrote the report." Strong verbs add energy and clarity. Choose verbs that accurately and vividly convey your meaning.
4. Show, Don't Just Tell:
Descriptive language helps bring your writing to life. Instead of saying "The food was delicious," describe the flavors, textures, and aromas. Use imagery and sensory details to paint a picture for the reader, mimicking the richness of oral storytelling.
5. Vary Sentence Length and Structure:
Just as spoken language uses a mix of short and long sentences, avoid monotony in your writing. Vary sentence structure to maintain reader interest. Short, punchy sentences create emphasis, while longer sentences can build suspense or convey complex ideas.
6. Employ Rhetorical Devices:
Mastering rhetorical devices like metaphors, similes, and analogies can add depth and impact to your writing, similar to the use of figures of speech in conversation. These devices can help illustrate points more effectively and make your writing more memorable.
7. Read Aloud:
Once you've finished writing, read your work aloud. This helps identify awkward phrasing, clunky sentences, and areas needing improvement. You'll hear where the flow is broken, just as you would if speaking the content.
Examples of Transforming Spoken Language into Written Form:
Spoken: "So, like, I went to the store, and, um, it was, you know, really crowded."
Written: "I visited the store, which was unexpectedly crowded."
Spoken: "It was, like, totally awesome!"
Written: "The experience was incredibly enjoyable."
Spoken: "He's a really great guy, you know?"
Written: "He possesses admirable qualities."
By consciously applying these techniques, you can translate the natural flow and impact of spoken language into compelling and engaging written content. Remember, the goal is to achieve clarity, precision, and an engaging conversational style – all within the structured framework of written communication.
