Tuesday, February 27, 2018

Readers and Questions

Last month's post garnered an unusually high number of reader emails. Thanks to those of you who sent me your comments.

In January, I examined a current-day phenomenon that is everywhere; by everywhere, I mean everywhere. My goal was to bring some needed attention to the widespread practice of asking questions within declarative sentences or statements. Why is it that many of us insert question-mark-tones into declarative statements? Is this acceptable, and what are its implications for you as a communicator?

The post resonated with you for several reasons, it seems. Today, I’ll list the top-three reasons that you gave me as to why discussing the overuse of questioning tones is timely and important to you.

Readers say:

1. It’s annoying and distracting. One reader said that he “took extra care when listening to commentators on television and radio. It was all too exasperating, and I feel that this communication problem will never end and we’ll just have to tolerate it.” Another reader observed that she was so furious with professional speakers and journalists who could not shake this tiresome habit, that she quit watching certain news and entertainment programs.

2. I am aware of it when I do it. A reader said that after observing others talking this way every day, he is more conscious of it and has significantly decreased his tendency to do just that.

3. I am more tuned in to others. One reader said that she has become more mindful of what others are trying to communicate. As a result, she is more focused on how she speaks and what she writes as well.  

Randall Ponder, Baton Rouge, Louisiana USA         www.editing-expert.com 

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