Noun strings (or noun sandwiches, as they are sometimes called) are notoriously difficult to understand and translate, even for native speakers of English. A careful writer can avoid noun strings easily.

Compare the original text to the improved text in the example below:>

Original Text  (adapted from maintenance manual of a machine)

To avoid this problem, the con-rod assembly locker insertion directions should be followed.

Improved Text

You can avoid this problem. Read the directions under How to Insert the Locker of the Con-Rod Assembly

Summary

Writing in plain English will not win you the Nobel prize for literature -- but it will help you win the prize for improved international business. If you identify and study your audience, plan your materials accordingly, organize your writing logically and follow the writing tips in the "Here's How" section, you will go a long way to making international business easier and more profitable for you and for your foreign counterparts.

To see a few more tips on writing for an international audience, click here.

To visit several websites that discuss the problems of English for foreigners (or native speakers of English, for that matter) and other websites that contain information helpful to international business people, click here.

WRITING TIPS

Introduction

More writing tips