So much of writing is about choosing the best word to convey
exactly what you're trying to say.
As an example, let’s use the following actual true
telephone conversation I just had with a customer service rep from a Large
Electronics Company.
Large EC: Hello. I’m calling in response to your e-mail. You
need help* with your new printer?
ME: Yes. It’s fresh out of the box, but it won’t print. It
says the magenta ink cartridge is empty. The cartridge must be defective.
LARGE: Did you call Technical Support?
ME: No, I e-mailed, remember?
LARGE: But did you call? It’s best if you call.
ME: How did you get my phone number?
LARGE: From your e-mail. Have you tried removing and
reinserting the magenta cartridge?
ME: Five times. No luck. I finally went out and bought a new
cartridge.
LARGE: Are you still having trouble printing?
ME: No, it works fine now.
LARGE: I’m glad to hear that. Is there anything else I can
help* you with?
ME: Yes. Can you reimburse me for the cartridge I bought?
LARGE: I’m sorry, I can’t reimburse you. I could have sent
you a replacement if you’d called.
ME: How about you send me a replacement cartridge now?
LARGE: I can’t do that, since I’ve already recorded that the
problem is resolved. Is there anything else I can help* you with?
ME: Why can’t you just reimburse me the $19.99?
LARGE: I’m not authorized to do that. The best I can do is
give you a $25 coupon toward your next purchase of ink.
ME: That’s FINE, thanks.
LARGE: Would you like me to give you a coupon? (Honest to
goodness, she asked me this.)
(General rummaging sounds; she finds and recites a coupon
code for me.)
LARGE: Is there anything else I can help* you with?
ME: God no. Thank you for your help*.
LARGE. My pleasure. If you need further help*, please—
ME: I know. Please call Technical Support.
LARGE: Yes. Would you like that number?
*Writing exercise: In place of the word “help” please insert
a more precise, accurate verb, such as confound,
frustrate, aggravate, hose.
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