咸阳师院外国语学院写作课件2.ppt

A Basic Course in Writing英语写作基础教程1 Chapter 2 Using Proper WordsI. Using words correctlyII. Using words accurately2 1. Using words correctlyUse common or informal words for general purposes; use formal or nonstandard words only on special occasions or for special purposes;Use specific and concrete words when giving details; use general or abstract words when presenting topics or making summaries;Use idiomatic expressions and words in acceptable collocations;3 When there are synonyms, choose the word that expresses the meaning most exactly and that suits the content and style;Avoid clichés, i.e., ideas and expressions that have been too much used and are now out-dated. 4 Informal Formal blow up cut down fire job leave same tired explode reduce dismiss position depart identical fatigued5 II. Using words accuratelyThe shade of meaning1: eagle and hawkEagle is a bird that soars high and thus sees far. to have an eagle eye (to have excellent vision)Hawk is a bird of prey, symbolizes harshness, thus people call the hard line politician “the hawk“.2: dumb and muteThe little child, before it has learned to speak, is mute, but not dumb.6 Q: Is it O.K. to use the terms “deaf-mute” and “deaf-and-dumb”?A: No. Although the term “deaf-mute” still persists in the U.S. and English press (which still uses “deaf and dumb”), neither of these terms should be used. “Deaf-and-dumb” and “deaf-mute” were at one time non-pejorative terms for deaf people. They reflected a common misconception that deafness caused muteness. People believed that deaf people couldn’t speak, that they were incapable of speech. Even deaf people used these terms to describe themselves. 7 With the evolution of the deaf community and changing perceptions, these terms are now considered obsolete and offensive. They have acquired a derogatory connotation. “Mute” is now used to describe a person who