ABSTRACT
Words are the raw material of all reports. Care must be taken to choose words which are appropriate to subject-matter, context and readership. Various languages show how their needs are reflected in language. Ewe and certain Amerindian languages satisfy themselves with the same word for 'yesterday' and 'tomorrow'. If every word means something slightly different, then every word must count for something. Cyril Connolly has pointed out: The perfect use of language is that in which every word carries the meaning that it is intended to, no more and no less. The report writer, however conservative, cautious or staid his approach to business, must keep abreast of developments. It is no more and no less than keeping up with fashion. Failing to do so will make the report–and thus the organization–appear dowdy, out-of-date and reactionary. The staff of Oxford dictionaries appreciates a greater interest in dictionaries and an increasing pace in supporting advertising.
