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Simplified language

Complex texts, made easy

How can we ensure that important informational texts are accessible to a wide audience? By using simplified language! This means producing content that does not exceed CEFR level B1, avoiding complex sentence structures and difficult vocabulary.

What is simplified language?

Simplified language refers to texts written at no more than VEFR level B1. When we think about how often even confident readers struggle with the technical jargon in insurance or financial documents, it becomes clear how much can be gained by simplifying communication. Yet for many people, it’s not only highly complex texts that pose a challenge; documents in standard language can be just as difficult to navigate, especially for those who do not read much in English or are still learning the language.

Around 60% of the population will never more than a B1 level of language proficiency, and for those who fall into this category, documents and texts that use specialist language can be very difficult to understand. With simplified language, the emphasis is placed on straightforward structures such as main clauses, words that are easy to recognise, actual examples and simple grammar. Technical terms should be avoided wherever possible, and images can help bring the content to life.

Which texts are suitable for simplified language, and how should you approach it?

Texts that benefit most from simplification to B1 level include informational material, current affairs content and instructions or guidelines.

  • Contracts
  • Client communications
  • Insurance policies
  • Instructions
  • Package inserts
  • Websites
  • News
  • Political education materials
  • Medical information
  • Citizen information

Texts like these are intended to appeal to a very diverse readership. It is therefore worthwhile to use simplified language with short, clear sentences, without technical jargon.

Should informational content be written entirely in simplified language? There are two options: either the content is written entirely in simplified language, or a summary of the most important information is provided at B1 level alongside the standard text.

If you have any questions about how to implement simplified language, we will be happy to advise you. Diction has a strong team of language specialists and is a member of Plain Language Association International (PLAIN). We offer translation, editing, proofreading and (re)writing services in German, English, French and Italian, including in simplified language.

Expertise

What is the best way to write in simplified language?

Let’s work it out together! Our Language Consulting Team, headed by Martina Fürlinger, is on hand to answer any questions you may have. Call us or write to us (in simplified or standard language 😉).

beratung@diction.ch
+41 81 750 53 33

Simplified language

The advantages of simplified language

There are many! Everyone should be able to access information on all the important topics. However, reaching a diverse audience not only has social value, it also brings clear economic benefits, meaning everyone stands to gain.

Reach and inclusion

People with lower reading skills can understand the texts as well. This level of accessibility demonstrates social responsibility while also helping your brand reach a wider audience.

Trust and image

Your clients will notice that you have given the issue real thought. By producing texts in simplified language, you show that you value your clients and take their needs seriously. When clients feel valued, they are far more likely to remain loyal.

Time and cost savings

When your information is also available in simplified language, there will be fewer queries, cancellations and incorrect purchases (and therefore fewer returns). This reduces costs in both sales and customer support.

How do you write in simplified language? For example:

There are plenty of complicated texts out there, but many people prefer simple, straightforward content. Some find it hard to concentrate when reading. and for those who are relatively new to English, simplified language is ideal. What is important for simple texts? 

Sentences should be short, with commas kept to a minimum.

You should only use main clauses and simple subordinate clauses.

Any foreign or complicated terms are best avoided, unless you can explain them clearly.

Images, tables and examples can be used to aid understanding.