Tomatoes aren't just tomatoes

You’re visiting a restaurant and, as you read the menu, you notice some dishes contain tomatoes. But you notice some differences:

[1] tomatoes
[2] home-grown grilled tomatoes
[3] local vine-grown, char-grilled cherry tomatoes

Which appeals more? Which is more expensive? When we want to add value to our writing, we can do so in a number of ways; one being words.

There’s no special grammar within the above descriptions, but the words chosen provide a valuable picture for the reader. A tomato will mean what the reader wants it to mean; the writer has left the reader to imagine, to visualise, to define ‘tomato’.

In [2] the writer has painted a rudimentary picture, providing information about where the tomatoes were grown and how they are cooked; the diner’s image becomes a little clearer.

However, the writer in [3] has taken full control, describing tomato type, location and precisely how it’s cooked. The diner is provided with a full-colour, and sensory, image of what to expect.

While such language may not be appropriate for every occasion (Please find attached a dynamic, insightful and detailed Q1 2023 financial report.), adding value to writing is essential if readers are to benefit from it.

Want to find out more? We understanding writing in English isn’t easy. We run online workshops looking at improving, developing and enhancing our writing. Why not join us?

More information here.

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