Jumping to conclusions
Recently I heard an ad on the radio. It started with ‘We only sell the best brands of vehicles’. Being the sceptical, persnickety editor that I am, I expected the ad to continue on to talk about their after-sales servicing and who knows what else. But, no, it seems that they sell. That’s it. It would seem that they didn’t mean ‘We sell only the best brands…’ as I had anticipated. I had to silently apologise to the copywriter – and cheer that the subtle difference that the placement of words like ‘only’ was recognised. Think about the differences in meaning in these sentences.
- Only I ate the cakes. [Everyone else ate biscuits.]
- I only ate the cakes. [I didn’t bake them.]
- I ate only the cakes. [I could have eaten biscuits as well.]
Does it matter?
How clearly do you want your message to be broadcast? Do you want your readers to easily understand what you’re telling them?
I think it does: I always aim for clear, engaging and sharp writing, whether I’m writing or editing.
What do you think? Have you had to think twice about a message because of the placement of one of those pesky little words?
sharpening your writing
Word-nerdy blog 
I always aim for clear, and engaging writing, however like most self publishers, really need help. I think this is why I write so rarely these days. Once an avid blogger, I can’t stand returning to my work, only to discover minor, or worse major infractions.
Mind you, when I get around to publishing a book, whatever the genre, I’ll be sure to call you.
Ah Catherine, I feel your pain.
And it’s getting those little things right that makes the difference between good writing and excellent writing.
It will be a delight to work with you when you return to writing.