
For example, consider herewith. The word sounds noble. So does its not-too-distant cousin herein. Wouldn’t using these words make the writer appear intelligent? And doesn’t that intelligence translate into professionalism?
Not always. In order for words like herewith and herein to sound intelligent, they must appear in very wordy sentences filled with equally “lofty” language. What results from the whole provides a much less effective vehicle for communicating what is often a simple message.
Take the example sentence in the graphic at top, for example. It sounds very “official.” But how does its effectiveness at communicating a simple message compare with this revision?
So if you want your writing to communicate more professionalism, avoid “elevated and enlightened” language like herewith and herein. The image you convey respecting your organization and brand will be all the better for it.