Upon completing this chapter, you will be able to adapt your language to specific readers and to select the most effective words for your communication purpose. To reach this goal, you should be able to:

1. Explain the role of adaptation in selecting words that communicate.
2. Simplify writing by selecting familiar and short words.
3. Use slang and popular clichés with caution.
4. Use technical words and acronyms appropriately.
5. Use concrete, specific words with the right shades of meaning.
6. Avoid misusing similar words and use idioms correctly.
7. Use active verbs.
8. Use words that do not discriminate.