Language is the system that people use to communicate with each other. It has several key characteristics - it is arbitrary, ambiguous, and abstract. There are also differences between spoken and written language, with spoken being more dynamic and immediate while written is more static and distant. When using language effectively, it is important to tailor it for your audience by personalizing it, using inclusive language, and visual elements to engage the imagination. Some guidelines for using language well include using spoken language styles, choosing meaningful words, balancing clarity with some ambiguity, being concise, and avoiding offensive or aggressive terms.

1. Using Language
10 Effectively

2. Language
 The system of words people use to
communicate with others
He didn't have to wake up
He'd been up all night
Layin’ there in bed listenin’
To his new born baby cry
He makes a pot of coffee
He splashes water on his face
His wife gives him a kiss and says
It gonna be OK

3. Language
 Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
 When I was young me and my mama had beef
Seventeen years old kicked out on the streets
Though back at the time, I never thought I'd see her face
Ain't a woman alive that could take my mama's place
Suspended from school; and scared to go home, I was a
fool with the big boys, breakin all the rules

4. Language Basics
Language is arbitrary—different meanings
depending on the culture
Language is ambiguous—words have
multiple meanings
Language is abstract— intangible
Language is active—full of life

5. Spoken Versus Written Language
 Dynamic versus static
 Immediate versus distant
 Informal versus formal
 Narratives versus facts
 Rhythm versus image

6. Audience-Centered Language
 Put your language in context
 Personalize your language
 Use inclusive language
 Use visual language
 Spark imagination with your language

7. Guidelines for Using Language
 Use spoken language
 Choose meaningful words
 Balance clarity and ambiguity
 Be concise
 Avoid offensive and aggressive language