Language of Research and Advocacy

Formal, precise language using technical terms; avoiding emotional bias; citing evidence (studies, statistics).

Language designed to engage and motivate, using emotional appeal; simple, relatable, and memorable phrases; often uses slogans.

Persuasive and assertive, focusing on policies to bring about systemic change; combining data with human narratives.

Provide accurate, evidence-based, and unbiased insights.

Engage and motivate a target audience.

Persuade decision-makers or mobilize communities for systemic change.

Formal, precise, neutral tone, uses citations and data.

Emotional appeal, simple language, memorable phrases, and inclusive language

Words or phrases designed to evoke strong emotions like joy, anger, guilt, or fear in the audience.

Verbs that express possibility, necessity, or obligation, like 'must', 'should', 'could', or 'might'.

Using pronouns like 'we', 'us', or directly addressing the audience with 'you' to engage them.

Questions designed for emphasis, not expecting answers, to make the audience think.

Comparing complex ideas to familiar things to make them easier to understand.

Supporting claims with facts, statistics, or expert opinions to make arguments more convincing.

Repeating words, phrases, or ideas to emphasize key points and make them more memorable.

Appealing to the audience's emotions through storytelling or evocative language.

Words that make writing more vivid and impactful by adding detail and color.

Linking an idea to positive or negative connotations to influence how the audience perceives it.

Suggesting that a lot of people support something to persuade others to join in.

Using a respected authority figure to back up claims and build credibility.

Building trust by showing expertise or citing reliable sources.

Stating your argument or opinion clearly and confidently.

Understanding the values and beliefs of your audience to tailor your message.

Organizing your persuasive writing with an intro, body, and conclusion.

Using assertive verbs and avoiding weak qualifiers like 'might' or 'could'. This makes writing impactful and convincing.

Clearly stating what you want the audience to do, making it easy for them to take the next step. It's the specific action you want them to take.

Phrases like "might", "could", "maybe" weaken your argument. Use stronger, assertive words to convey confidence and urgency.

Making your writing clear, accurate, and impactful by removing unnecessary words and jargon.

Every word should contribute to a powerful message. Aim for clarity, accuracy, and a strong impression on your audience.