The 10 most beautiful words in the English language

It’s axiomatic that the best writing is studded with words so evocative they quicken the pulse of English-speaking people. But how does one strike a tone that sends a warm current through the hearts of its recipients? And how on earth do we accomplish that with business writing?

In that regard, we’ve all been given a big assist by the British Council, which is dedicated to building strong cultural relations with other countries. The British Council conducted a study titled the Most Beautiful Words in the English Language. More than 40,000 people in 100 countries participated in the study. A total of 70 words were ranked. Here is what voters decided are the top 10 most beautiful English words:

1. Mother
2. Passion
3. Smile
4. Love
5. Eternity
6. Fantastic
7. Destiny
8. Freedom
9. Liberty
10. Tranquility

So the question is … how many of these words can you lace into your next sales proposal, business letter, speech, billboard, newspaper ad or web page? Do so and you’ll be creating some positive imagery in the minds of your target audience. This helps humanize your communication and enhances its chances of making an emotional impact.

It isn’t as difficult as it might seem – even for business writing. Let’s try a few phrasings.

• At Nordstrom we are passionate about the shopping experience and committed to providing you with fantastic customer service.
• Robert Half International is the mother company to an entire family of specialized staffing firms.
• Outsourcing your accounting and human resource operations to ADP will give you the freedom you need to focus on the business activities that put a smile on your face and give you more control over your destiny.
• Starbucks strives to provide you with an environment of peace and tranquility, a place where you have the liberty to think free thoughts and give the love of premium coffees a chance to blossom anew.

Okay, I cheated a bit on the last one by counting “free” – the root word of “freedom.” I also included “peace” and “blossom,” the No. 11 and 12 ranked words.

Keep in mind that I just dashed off those sentences. With a little time and effort you can do much better, and make a warm connection with your customers in the process.

I invite your thoughts, including your own choices for the most beautiful words in the language. Just click on the “comment” link and you’re off and running.

Cheers.

 

Leave A Comment:

If you are already a member, please log-in to leave comments.
Not a member? Please register.
Have you forgotten your password?