by Forman Skidsdon

Created on: September 08, 2007   Last Updated: September 20, 2008

CLARIFY THAT FOR ME PLEASE

Possessing the ability to speak English well provides entitlement to so much more than simply a breach of the language barrier that might provide a hot meal when you're hungry, a bed with soft pillow for your weary head or directions to a subway stop or other location.

With a precise vocabulary and the ability to articulate perfectly, one can open many doors, realize new opportunities and be transported into realms heretofore unimagined.

The moment you open your mouth and speak is the moment you are judged well educated and polished or not. It's more than a matter of what you say, although substance is crucial.

The difference between speaking good, clear, concise English and speaking sloppy, loose or bad English, is the difference between using good diction and using poor diction.

In order to speak well you must have knowledge of the rules of grammar and of rhetoric, the ability for oratory or having a way with words. Good diction will readily manifest itself, in the distinict, unfettered written word and one must apply the rules of grammar with conscientious care. Faulty diction can usually be found out on the 'street', whereas good diction is, presumably, the hallmark of the cultured.

Errors of grammar include errors of spelling, pronunciation, inflection and syntax(arrangement or agreement and governance of your words). Errors of construction are offenses against the 'canons of expression' (the principles or conventions of expression). These errors include irregular forms that hamper style and are caused in three ways: a) the desire for brevity, b) the confusion of construction, and c) the desire to avoid harshness of construction.

Diction is considered 'faulty' when words that are not sanctioned by society are used. New words and new understandings are constantly entering the living vocabulary of the English language.

"Talking and eloquence are not the same. To speak and to speak well are two different things. A fool may talk, but a wise man speaks." (Ben Jonson)

It has been said that "brevity is a great charm of eloquence". (Cicero)

In reference to speaking good English, are you referring to using good grammar, to employing correct pronunciation or enunciation or articulation, to making a speech or to
delivering a sermon or business presentation, or are you simply referring to the common fluency of the language as used in conversation?

Which conversation and with whom?

In general, Socrates put it best: "Such as thy words are, such will thine

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