George Orwell (1903-1950) is a well-known British author. His fictional works include classics like Nineteen-Eighty Four and Animal Farm. Who is not familiar with the brilliant phrases “Big brother is watching you” and “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others”?

During his career Orwell showed special interest in the use of language in politics. In an essay called Politics and the English language, Orwell writes “It (the English language, RED) becomes ugly and inaccurate because our thoughts are foolish, but the slovenliness of our language makes it easier for us to have foolish thoughts.” In order to have clear thoughts, one needs to use clear language.

The same is true in science. Scientists from all disciplines often use vague words or too difficult words to hide their own ignorance or doubts. Discussions can easily be stalled by a disproportionate use of jargon. I believe science has more meaning if the language is as clear and precise as possible.

The majority of the scientific community is not a native speaker of English, which makes it even more important to use simple words and short phrases. Both in print and in speech. Native speakers of English should be aware of this fact and be even more careful with the words they choose.

Orwell concludes his essay (please do read it) by stating six rules that can help writing clear texts. I think scientists could also benefit from remembering these rules, although it is debatable whether all of these rules apply to scientific texts. So here they are, Orwell’s golden rules:

1. Never use a metaphor, simile or other figure of speech which you are used seeing in print.
2. Never use a long word where a short one will do.
3. If it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out.
4. Never use the passive where you can use the active.
5. Never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent.
6. Break any of these rules sooner than say anything barbarous.

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