When did clear, thoughtful writing start sounding “too AI”?
Last time, we explored “The Words We Don’t Say” – we often think communication is all about what we say. Yet so much is shaped by what we don’t say. If you missed it, you can catch up here
Lately I’ve noticed a growing trend: people are starting to question punctuation. Have you noticed this too?
When something is structured, grammatically sound, and punctuated, these days it’s often met with: “Hmm… this sounds like AI.”
Yet punctuation doesn’t strip our words of humanity – it gives them shape, clarity and emotional tone.
Without it, meaning gets lost:
“Let’s eat, Grandma.”
“Let’s eat Grandma.”
Right! One of those is a dinner invitation. The other is… well, a crime scene!
- Have you ever sent a message that was misunderstood because of missing punctuation?
- Have you had a moment where a tiny punctuation choice changed the tone of what you were trying to say – maybe at work, in a leadership role, or in a personal moment?
- Did someone teach you the power of punctuation in a way that stuck with you?
I have learned that even something as small as a missing full stop can shift the tone – making a message feel rushed or careless, even when it’s not.
We don’t punctuate to impress. We punctuate to be understood.
“Punctuation marks are the road signs placed along the highway of our communication – to control speeds, provide directions, and prevent head-on collisions.”
– Russell Baker –
[American journalist & author]
So, here’s some encouragement for this week…
If you like using punctuation and writing with care, keep doing it. Use punctuation. Use pauses. Use your voice. It’s not robotic – it’s respectful.
In a world full of noise, clarity is a gift.
I’d love to hear what you think on this topic!
With warmest wishes,
Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
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P.S. Feel free to share your experiences and insights!
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