10.3.3. Interference effects and in-house words, expressions and constructions
Especially in texts intended for the general public, care should be taken to avoid interference effects and the use of in-house words, expressions, constructions and meanings that are not generally recognised outside the EU institutions.
Especially in texts intended for the general public, care should be taken to avoid interference effects and the use of in-house words, expressions, constructions and meanings that are not generally recognised outside the EU institutions. Many of these are the result of confusion between English words and those from other languages (particularly French).
| Frequently misused term | Alternative |
|---|---|
| according to | in accordance with |
| adequate | appropriate |
| (legal) base | (legal) basis |
| coherent | consistent |
| debriefed | briefed or informed |
| define | establish or lay down |
| detached | seconded |
| different | various |
| disincentivise | discourage |
| dispose of | have |
| ensure | provide for |
| foresee | envisage or provide for |
| guarantee | ensure |
| in case | if |
| in case of | in the case/event of |
| incentivise | encourage |
| incite | encourage |
| modalities | detailed arrangements |
| modify | amend |
| modulation | reduction |
| nominate | appoint |
| planification | planning |
| precise | specify |
| retain | select |
Please also see points 2.14 and 2.15 of the English Style Guide, How to write clearly and Claire’s Clear Writing Tips (for links, see Section 11 ‘Reference works’).