A miscellaneous compilation of articles and off-the-cuff ideas, mostly relating to the English Language and its words, and how well they are used on some occasions, and how badly on others. But other topics and whimsies are likely to keep cropping up too. This blog is closely related to the website mentioned below.

Sunday, 7 February 2010

Save breath (or paper and ink) and time

"I trust that we shall be able to enjoy clement weather during the latter part of the day."
[18 words, 23 syllables]
"I hope it will be fine this evening."
[8 words, 9/10 syllables]
"Better weather later, I hope"
[5 words, 8 syllables]

"We have the advantage of being in a position to utilise specialist equipment whenever we find it necessary to undertake work of this nature."
[24 words, 43 syllables]
"For this sort of work we use special equipment."
[9 words, 12 syllables]
"We have the right gear."
[5 words, 5 syllables]

"Though I would not like to be thought to be setting a precedent, I rather think that I am inclined to accede to your request on this occasion."
[28 words, 37 syllables]
"I'll give permission now, but don't count on it next time round."
[12 words, 14 syllables]
"OK, just this once."
[4 words, 5 syllables]

But of course, it may take longer to think up the concise version than to speak or scribble the waffly one.

Save breath (or paper and ink) and time

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