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Title: Suggestions for Wording! Post by: emd_22 on February 11, 2003, 09:21:52 am I have just had a request from a fellow worker. They are writing up someone's review and have a sentance that they would like to reword. It is in regard to someone knowing about computers not appearing "smug" when they try to help someone else. Does anyone have any suggestions as to how this could be rephrased so we aren't using the word "smug" as it doesn't sound appropriate for a review form!
Thanks Lis Title: Re: Suggestions for Wording! Post by: Judy Loux on February 11, 2003, 10:44:19 am How about using one of the following words:
self-satisfied, complacent, self-important or overconfident Any of these sounds better than "smug" DDiva Title: Re: Suggestions for Wording! Post by: emd_22 on February 11, 2003, 11:42:28 am Thanks for the response, I did think about those but I'm not sure if they would give the right impression:- ie When "Jane" is requested to help others with computer issues she is able to do this without appearing "smug".
If we replaced "smug" with one of the suggestions would that sound correct? I wouldn't want to suggest something that may make a good complement sound bad. I hope this all makes sense! Lis Title: Re: Suggestions for Wording! Post by: bethalize on February 11, 2003, 11:44:08 am Condescending? Patronising?
Bethalize Peer Moderator Title: Re: Suggestions for Wording! Post by: elkiedee on February 11, 2003, 12:33:07 pm I think it would be better to find a positive compliment than a negative compliment - rather than not being smug she is (word for the opposite of smug) - or a slightly different approach "she is able to share her knowledge of computers in a helpful, friendly and encouraging way"
If your boss prefers the original tack, unintimidating or non-threatening - I don't know - I really think trying to find positive words rather than ones describing non-negatives is better. Luci |