What is the advantage of using Latinate text over Germanic? When writing, for example, a newspaper article, what is the effect of the occasional Latinate word amongst the simpler words?
Is Latinate better than Germanic, or simply more pompous?
Sorry, I guess that is three questions! But I am curious... :)
2007-02-25 20:29:38 · 2 answers · asked by Ticalpoe 2 in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
I'm not worried about my own writing style, by the way, and whether or not to use long words myself. When I write, I use whatever words as I see fit; the ones that communicate my message with the greatest clarity. I just wanted to know what people think of the effect of having long, Latinate words in a text - does it lend the text more authority? sophistication? pomposity? I just want your own opinion on this! Cheers!
2007-02-26 09:10:31 · update #1
The one golden rule when writing a newspaper article is KISS - Keep it simple stupid. Always use a shorter word, usually germanic, instead of a latin one. Eg, 'I think', rather than 'I consider'. Words with a Latinate root will often sound pompous and would probably be subbed out.
2007-02-25 21:23:36 · answer #1 · answered by rdenig_male 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
While the person who answered your question above me certainly has a point, please also bear in mind that the English language has been permeated by Latinate vocabulary to such an extent that the original Germanic word has now become obsolete. If I were you, I would not worry too much about the percentages of Latinate vs. Germanic words in your text. The most important consideration should be to sound yourself and to sound natural.
2007-02-26 10:05:10 · answer #2 · answered by Dennis J 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋