Last week, a BBC journalist did something unexpected.
Commenting on the findings of research on the current heatwave, she said “pregnant people.”
And then corrected herself to “women.”
It was striking to watch a presenter subtly push back on the language she was given.
Language evolves—but not everyone agrees on how.
And when that moment of disagreement comes live from the British Broadcasting Corporation, it feels especially noteworthy.
People adjust their language to match what feels right
This week’s three tips:
SOMETHING TO AVOID 🫣
🤦🏻♀️ “She did a change”
You would never do a change. It’s the wrong collocation.
✅ “She made a change”
It’s better to say that you make a change.
Did you make the changes I asked you?
SOMETHING TO SOUND CONFIDENT 🧐
👔 Business expressions
“Walk into a minefield”
To enter a situation that’s full of hidden risks or sensitive issues — especially when speaking publicly.
“When you talk about gender, politics, or identity at work, you’re walking into a minefield. One wrong word can blow up the whole conversation.”
SOMETHING TO WATCH 👀
NEXT STEP ➡️
LOOKING FOR MORE?🔎
Keep learning,
The Crystal Clear English Team
Please give us your opinion about this newsletter by replying to us ✉️
and remember to follow us on social media 🫶