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Journal of Child Neurology
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Editorial

Semantics do Matter! Precision in Scientific Communication in Pediatric Neurology

Harvey B. Sarnat, MD, FRCPC

Departments of Paediatrics, Pathology (Neuropathology), and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary Faculty of Medicine and Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, harvey.sarnat{at}calgaryhealthregion.ca

Semantics matter. It is all about precision in communication. Specific terms should not be degraded to general terms by using them interchangeably with others of different meaning or nuance. Changes to traditional use of some terms are needed to recognize the historical context or new needs of modern technology, such as genetics. Prefixes are not independent words. Spelling conventions may be imposed by journals in accordance with national standards where the journal is edited, but the manner of speech or "voice" of the writer should be respected he/she prefers a grammatically correct alternative. Unfamiliar and excessive abbreviations should be avoided in manuscripts, titles, and PowerPoint presentations. Writers should be aware that computer programs may automatically alter spellings of technical terms, rendering them incorrect. One should respect correct grammar and orthography in both English and other languages, including accent marks in foreign words and names.

Key Words: semantic precision • terminology • linguistic styles

Journal of Child Neurology, Vol. 22, No. 11, 1245-1251 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/0883073807307981
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[Abstract] [PDF]