WHY BOTHER WITH THE RIGHT WORD? 'People understand me well enough' is the typical response of the uncaring speaker to any criticism of his usage that is, of the way he talks or writes. But do people understand such a speaker well enough? And even if they do, what is their impression of him or of anyone who speaks and writes in a sloppy, careless way? Much the same, probably, as their impression of someone who is sloppily dressed. Using the right word at the right time is rather like wearing appropriate clothing for the occasion: it is a courtesy to others, and a favour to yourself - a matter of presenting yourself well in the eyes of the world.
The comparison goes further than that: just as dressing appropriately can help you to feel more confident and to act more effectively, so speaking and writing appropriately can help you to reach clearer decisions and persuade others to agree with you. Sloppy language makes for muddled thinking:
The English language .. becomes ugly and inaccurate because our thoughts are foolish, but the slovenliness of our language makes it easier for us to have foolish thoughts.
- George Orwell,
'Politics and the English Language'
Hard cover with no notable flaws

Condition: Good