Written communication should be engaging and easily understandable. However, in many texts, there is a phenomenon that significantly disrupts the flow of reading: nominalizations. These linguistic stumbling blocks rob the sentences of their vitality and make them cumbersome. Often, behind the complex expressions, there is only an attempt to demonstrate competence. In this guide, you will learn how to identify and avoid nominalizations in order to make your texts appealing and lively.
Key Insights
- Nominalizations diminish the dynamism of your texts.
- Verbs are vital elements that strengthen your writing.
- Simple and clear language effectively reaches your readers.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Identify Nominalizations
The first step is to identify nominalizations in your texts. These words are often weakened versions of originally lively verbs that appear static and lifeless. When you find them in your own texts, for example in terms like "utilization," you know that action is needed here.
2. Transform Nominalizations into Verbs
The next step is transforming nominalizations into active verbs. This is where you become aware that the lively effect of a sentence significantly depends on the verbs used. Instead of writing "No costs are incurred in the utilization of our help," you should say, "When you use our help, no costs are incurred." This brings liveliness to your sentence and improves the flow of reading.
3. Simplification of Language
Once you start reducing nominalizations, aim for further simplification. Replace not only the nominalizations but also rephrase entire sentences to make them easily understandable. A sentence like "We help you and you pay nothing" is much simpler and direct. This clarity draws readers into your text and keeps their interest alive.
4. Practice with Examples
Practice makes perfect. Make it a habit to work with examples. Write sentences containing nominalizations and practice reformulating them. A practical exercise is to try to form a complete sentence without nominalizations based on the learned structures.
Summary
Avoiding nominalizations is crucial for dynamic and captivating writing. It requires attention to language and the courage to choose simple and direct formulations. By following the steps above, you will be able to optimize your texts and captivate your readers sustainably.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I identify nominalizations in my texts?By identifying words derived from verbs that appear less active, you can recognize nominalizations.
Why are nominalizations problematic?They make sentences cumbersome and rob them of their dynamism, causing readers to become inattentive.
How can I avoid nominalizations?By attempting to replace static terms with actions or verbs, you can make your text more lively.
Is there a simple rule for transformation?Yes, a simple sentence structure with clear verbs enables more dynamic and understandable communication.
