TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
Subject:You VS One From:"Keith Hansen" <KRH -at- weiland-wfg -dot- com> To:<techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com> Date:Wed, 4 Jun 2008 15:53:51 -0500
Folks,
What is the generally accepted position today for "you" vs. "one"?
For example, assume an election official wants to mail a letter to all
registered voters. He can choose either of the following sentences for
his letter:
* "If you want to vote in the November election, you must register by
October 15."
VS.
* "If one wants to vote in the November election, one must register by
October 15."
Back long ago (the Victorian era?), "one" was used in such situations
instead of "you." Today, outside of very formal writing (such as an
academic paper), does anyone still advocate using "one" instead of
"you"?
I think "one" sounds ridiculously pompous. However, at least one person
I know thinks "you" is wrong here (too informal, she says)!
Thanks.
Keith
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Create HTML or Microsoft Word content and convert to Help file formats or
printed documentation. Features include support for Windows Vista & 2007
Microsoft Office, team authoring, plus more. http://www.DocToHelp.com/TechwrlList
True single source, conditional content, PDF export, modular help.
Help & Manual is the most powerful authoring tool for technical
documentation. Boost your productivity! http://www.helpandmanual.com
---
You are currently subscribed to TECHWR-L as archive -at- web -dot- techwr-l -dot- com -dot-