Clarity & Style
Concrete Language
Use specific, sensory words that people can picture.
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What & why
What it is
Language that uses specific, tangible details rather than abstract concepts. Concrete language includes numbers, names, sensory details, and specific examples that create clear mental images for the audience.
Why it works
Abstract concepts are processed in different parts of the brain than concrete, sensory information. Using concrete language activates more brain regions, creating a richer, more memorable mental image for the audience.
Before & after
Before
“Engagement is down.”
After
“Daily comments fell from 120 to 60 in two weeks.”
When you’ll use it
Simplifying dense product updates for cross-functional teams
Editing executive summaries for plain, direct language
Translating technical research into accessible talking points
Pro tip
Replace abstractions with numbers, examples, or visuals.
Questions & answers
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