Made-up Words part 2

Adding “-ize”

Don’t Say: Every time Malcom’s mail is late he says they should privatize the postal service.
Say Instead: Every time Malcom’s mail is late he says they should turn over the postal service to the private sector.

Here’s Why: There are a lot of respectable “-ize” verbs such as “hospitalize,” “jeopardize,” and “institutionalize” that had to travel a long and rocky path to acceptability. But there are a number of “-ize” words in popular use—especially in business environments—that haven’t made it yet into the hallsof standard English. These include “privatize” from our example, as well as “finalize, “prioritize,” “incentivize,” and “theorize.” These words sound like needless jargon at best and pretentious jargon at worst—they’re best avoided by careful speakers and writers.


Enthuse

Don’t Say: The company president enthused over the new budget report until he discovered that it contained five mathematical errors.
Say Instead: The company president praised (or applauded) the new budget report until he discovered that it contained five mathematical errors.

Here’s Why: The verb “enthuse” is a fine word that performs a useful function: it conveys either the causing or the expressing of enthusiasm. But it’s a relatively recent creation, and some conservative speakers still object to it. So enthuse away in ordinary conversation at home and at work; but in the most formal kind of speech and writing, however, you may wish to cater to the conservatives and avoid it.


Adding “-wise”

Don’t Say: It’s an interesting job, but not much salary-wise.
Say Instead: It’s an interesting job, but the salary is small.

Here’s Why: Lots of respectable words end in “-wise” as a way of indicating a manner or a direction—“clockwise” is a common example. However, tacking on the suffix “-wise” willynilly in order to convey “with regard to” is a no-no. Stay away from formulations such as “profit-wise,” “time-wise,” and “height-wise.”