Language techniques and different genres

In Table 3, two techniques have been highlighted: comparison and description. Here are examples of how they might work when used as language techniques in different writing genres.

Narrative

We had always known that our neighbours were strange. But a week ago we would not have thought they were as weird as we now do. So much has happened in seven short days! Let me tell you why we now think they are aliens from Outer Space and not just fussy eccentrics.                                                                                                 Lelia Lord

 Comparison is used to highlight the change in the narrator’s view of his neighbours.

Argument

If the Government knew as much now about the Herboldt Project as they do now, they would never have agreed to its establishment in this country. The project was set up in other countries with the full knowledge of those governments and peoples, whereas here, they chose to be secretive about the possible repercussions and results of injecting tons of chemicals into our ecosystems.                                                                                                 Lelia Lord

Comparison is used to highlight the difference in the approach the company used.
 

Description

Narrative

As I wandered through the undergrowth I could not help but marvel at the beauty of it. I knew I should hurry towards my destination, but the place was casting a spell on me. The heavy scent of the flowers that were nestled in the roots of trees made my head spin, and awoke in me a strange longing to lie amongst them. The sunlight glittered on the delicate leaves, creating a dazzling display. I reached out to touch them.                                                                                                 Lelia Lord

 
Description is interwoven with the narrative to enhance the imagery and the narrative.
 

Exposition

This type is called a schooner and is used for inter-island travel. These schooners or sloops, as they are also known, are quite large, with accommodation for up to 20 passengers. They use both engine power and sail power, as they are equipped with square and lateen sails. Some schooners have heavily carved and decorated forecastles.                                                                               Lelia Lord

Description is used to add depth to the explanation.

The words and phrases that are in bold illustrate how the technique is used in each genre. Note the use of transition words: as, also and whereas.

Language techniques and enhancing writing styles

The purpose of using language techniques is to enhance writing styles, and particularly to draw the reader’s interest. Increasing your vocabulary is important. In description, for example, sense words are often used to enhance creative writing. You should select sense words that improve your writing style and create images in the reader’s mind. Study the descriptive words and samples in Table 4.
 

DESCRIPTIVE WORDS
Sound words	tinkling, murmuring, sighing, rustling, moaning, swishing, bubbling, sniveling smashing, clattering, bellowing, rumbling, trumpeting, booming, raucous
Touch words	scratchy, scarred, hairy, rough, dry, coarse woolly, moist, numbing, waxy,  polished, smooth, slippery, bushy, slimy
Sight words	glaring, glittery, shimmering, dazzling, crystalline, glassy, brilliant pale, transparent, dull, opaque, dark, murky
Smell words	fragrant, perfumed, tangy, sweet smelly, fetid, rotten, earthy, acrid, fishy, nauseating, musty, putrid
Taste words	delicious, tangy, bland, spicy, sweet, fruity, sugary, luscious, gingery burnt, sour, vinegary, repulsive, raw, oily, salty, bitter, rotten, greasy
Sound words	tinkling, murmuring, sighing, rustling, moaning, swishing, bubbling, sniveling smashing, clattering, bellowing, rumbling, trumpeting, booming, raucous

Table 4
 
The following sentence illustrates how to enhance a descriptive sentence.

No A loud sound came to my ears. At the same time I smelled fire. Yes A booming, rumbling sound filled my ears as the acrid smell of smoke wafted through the air.

In the example below, several language techniques are used to enhance argumentative writing.

Lastly, but most importantly, a programme aimed at reversing increasing violence among the youth must take into account the appalling lack of parental involvement that has been caused by increasing economic hardship and societal stress. The findings of a comprehensive UCC survey completed in 2010, suggested that parents struggle to spend quality time with their children because they work two or more jobs in order to feed, clothe and educate their families, leaving their children prey to the social hazards inherent in their environment – drugs and violence. The situation can be likened to a game of Russian Roulette. Raising children successfully is subject to the luck of the draw!

The language techniques highlighted are:

• Appalling, struggle, prey – emotive words.
• The findings of a comprehensive UCC survey completed in 2010 – referring to reliable, up-to-date evidence.
• Likened to a game of Russian Roulette – analogy.

 Language techniques can be used to enhance not only your own writing, but also your understanding of how language works. As you become aware of how this works, you will find that your communication skills will improve dramatically.