Tone and words: Use accurate language
Worry more about substance than style. This is not to say that some styles aren’t more effective than others with different people and in different circumstances, but I often hear people complaining about the style or tone of a criticism in order to deflect from its substance. If you think someone’s style is an issue, box it as a separate issue to
... See moreRay Dalio • Principles: Life and Work
Some words—like “attractive,” “ugly,” “good,” and “bad”—carry judgments that are obvious. But be careful with words like “inappropriate,” “should,” or “professional.”
Roger Fisher • Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most
She suggests using specific language, like “Help me understand your point” in place of “I disagree with that,” to depersonalize and invite intellectual discussion among those who might otherwise give in.
Gretchen Anderson • Mastering Collaboration: Make Working Together Less Painful and More Productive
articulating overblown promises as a result of undisciplined language can be an incredibly dangerous game to play.
Frank Luntz • Words That Work: It's Not What You Say, It's What People Hear
