"Don't use words too big for the subject"

The essence of this quote is to keep things simple and straightforward. It's all about not complicating matters by using fancy or overly complex words when plain language will do just fine. Think of it as avoiding unnecessary drama and sticking to the point. It’s like saying, “If you don’t need to use a ten-dollar word, just don’t.”

This advice can be traced back to the wisdom of keeping communication clear and effective. Historically, this concept has been championed by many great writers and speakers. George Orwell, for instance, was a big advocate for clarity in writing. He believed that using complex language often masked the true meaning of what was being said or, worse, that the speaker didn't have a clear understanding themselves.

Let's bring this to life with a real-world example. Imagine you're at a team meeting at work. You have a crucial point to make about a project’s deadline. Instead of saying, “The current timeline is not feasible due to an underestimation of the necessary resource allocation,” you say, “We don’t have enough time or people to finish this project on schedule.” The first version might sound impressive, but it’s the second version that gets everyone on the same page quickly and efficiently.

To put this wisdom into practice, think about your audience. Are you talking to experts who understand the jargon, or are you addressing a general audience? Always aim for clarity. Before you speak or write, ask yourself: “Is there a simpler way to say this?” If the answer is yes, go with the simpler way. It saves time, reduces misunderstandings, and makes you look like someone who values clear communication.

Imagine this scenario to really drive the point home. You're teaching your younger cousin how to bake a cake. If you say, “We need to amalgamate the granulated sucrose with the ovum and lipids until homogenous,” you’ll probably get a blank stare. But if you say, “Mix the sugar, eggs, and butter until it’s all smooth,” you’ll get a nod and a smile—and probably a better cake.

In life, we often think that using big words makes us sound smarter. But more often than not, it just creates barriers. People tune out, get confused, and miss the point entirely. So next time you’re tempted to use a grandiose term, pause for a second. Think about whether a simpler word could make your message clearer. It’s not about dumbing things down; it’s about making sure everyone understands what you’re trying to say.

So, next time you find yourself reaching for that thesaurus, remember: clarity trumps complexity. It's not just about sounding smart; it's about being understood. And in the end, isn't that the whole point of communication?