Essay Example: The Secret to Effective Language

Language is the mode of communication by which a message is passed from one person to the other. Human beings are social organisms who cannot exist without a language. This makes it an important aspect of the society, which must be embraced, strengthened, protected and used smoothly for the right message to be communicated. Language goes beyond the words to the way how, when and why it is used. All these have the potential to determine what reaches the audience. There are many factors that shape language, making it to vary among different age groups, communities, and environments. Every environment has its language, for example, the language used at a hospital greatly varies from that used in a club. Language educates, entertains, warns and sensitizes the society. Language is the force behind successful communication. This paper takes a critical look at the secret to good language.

Good Language

The secret to good language lies in the choice of words, their pronunciation (intonation), and context. Two people can communicate entirely different messages using the same words. Likewise, a person who is not well enlightened on language can communicate incorrect things unintentionally, and maybe hurt others, all due to improper use of language. The choice of words is very essential in communication, various groups will pick their words differently; for example, the words used by the old men in the society differs greatly with those picked by the youth. This difference is caused by experience, prevailing circumstances and the mood of the circumstance. Effective communicators value their language, increase their prowess by researching and learning more words and practicing it often.

Language and Perception

The perception of the communicator or the subject by the target audience is determined by the language used. For example, a musician can present a love song, only to communicate a different message due to the perception. There are instincts in communication, which can betray the communicator if he or she is hiding a given feeling, message or personal issue to the audience. Language requires the individual to be fully devoted to the activity and to involve themselves fully. Audience perception of the communicator is greatly influenced by the use of nonverbal clues. Illustrations such as gestures, eye contact and movement of the person as he or she passes their message during a live communication tell more about the situation, the individual and the topic being addressed. The written language, on the other hand, can be difficult to comprehend any message beyond the words, especially if it is precise. To ensure the perception of the right message, the language should be inclusive of the above communication cues.

How to Use Language

Language should be used differently depending on the audience, message, environment and the circumstance. Different situations have their own languages, failure to which an incorrect message will be passed. For example, you cannot use love language in a bank or court language in a kindergarten. Language should, therefore, choose and used accordingly for suitability. All these factors should be taken into consideration, as some languages can end up causing more harm than good to the audience, contrary to the originally intended message. Secondly, proper choice of word and articulation is crucial. Proper language should be respectful, understandable should cover the topic well. For example, the language used at home is not suitable for a hotel, hence the cooks and waiters have to design it specifically to suit this purpose. This enables them to communicate to each other effectively. However, it may not be applied outside the hotel environment.

Complicated Language

Language complication occurs due to improper use, where the choice or the only language available is not consistent with factors such as environment and audience. If a professor of English teaches primary school students, there is going to be a communication breakdown, as the students would not understand whereas he or she thinks that the language being used is appropriate. However, if the same professor talks to his fellow tutors in a departmental meeting, they will easily understand each other without struggling to remain relevant. The secret of proper language, therefore, lies in consideration of various determinants such as audience and environment. There are thousands of languages on the globe today, most of which can only be understood by the members of that particular society. This should not be interpreted to mean that it is complicated, Language is beautiful and communication is essential in human life.

Conclusively, a language should be used appropriately according to the environment, audience and prevailing circumstance. There are different languages according to the community, age, and profession. Improper language includes the use of offensive language, wrong choice of words, or trying to mimic a language which one is not familiar with at all. It is essential for everyone to use the suitable language at any time in an effective and peaceful manner. Nonverbal language involves using body signs, gestures and other skills to enhance communication. It can be used alongside words to ensure vivid communication, especially when teaching or giving a speech. It is impossible for human beings to live without language, hence it should be treasured.