Laying emphasis on clarity for effective verbal communication

Admittedly, oratory is not child play; it can be intimidating. Words once uttered cannot be retrieved for editing, unlike the written word. Thus, the attitudes and mannerisms of people who interact with the public on a regular basis, be it in the media - particularly television - film or music industries go a long way in shaping the language or mannerism that youngsters and admirers pick up from them.

A mistake in articulation repeated over time assumes ‘correctness’ in the minds of listeners and learners. Television journalists exert great influence on the youth, who emulate the way their idols dress, walk and talk.