As a criminal justice professional, you should strive to write plainly, efficiently, and clearly. You’ll save time, and so will your readers. Here are some words and expressions that can (and should!) be simplified:
|
Avoid |
Use Instead |
|
utilize |
use |
|
single-click |
click |
|
for the purpose of |
to |
|
in the event that |
if |
|
if or when |
if |
|
the month of November |
November |
|
blue in color |
blue |
|
large in size |
large |
|
pull-down menu |
menu |
|
scream and yell |
scream |
|
brand-new |
new |
|
lower down |
lower |
|
PIN number |
PIN |
|
preplan |
plan |
|
preregister |
register |
For more suggestions about clarity and efficiency, go to www.PlainLanguage.gov.
