How to “Respond” — Appropriately

Illustration of a doodle saying "wh–what are you doing?!" as another doodle with a backpack, a camera, mismatched shoes, a top hat and an emergency light on its head, holding a toilet plunger, runs off while saying "RESPONDING!"

It’s time for another installment of our unofficial “use simpler words” series. You remember, don’t you? (Let us jog your memories: procedure, inflammation, and monitor.)

This week’s word, “respond,” doesn’t need to be replaced or simplified so much as it needs to be clarified. Why? Well, it’s just plain vague. Does a hazmat team respond to a toxic chemical spill by singing an opera about it? Of course not — they respond by donning their hazmat suits and working to keep the public safe.

Consider these examples:

  • It will be 6 weeks before we can tell if the cancer is responding to the treatment.
  • When the hurricane hits, we will respond quickly.

C’mon… we can be clearer than that, dear readers! Try these on for size instead:

  • It will be 6 weeks before we can tell if the treatment is shrinking the tumor.
  • When the hurricane hits, we will act quickly to keep people safe and help anyone who’s hurt.

Sure, you may use a few more words, but you’ll be more specific and focused on action. And who doesn’t ❤ that?

The bottom line: Instead of using the word “respond,” say what’s actually happening.

 

Browse recent posts

Do you heart health literacy? We sure do! Sign up to get practical health literacy tips and tricks — delivered to your inbox every week.