One of the most powerful weasel words is VIRTUALLY, a word so innocent that most people don't pay any attention to it when it is used in an advertising claim. But watch out. It is used in advertising claims that appear to make specific, definite promises when there is no promise. After all, what does Virtually mean? It means in essence or effect, although not in fact.
The next time you see the ad that says that this dishwasher detergent leaves dishes virtually spotless, just remember how advertisers twist the meaning of the weasel word VIRTUALLY. You can have lots of spots on your dishes after using this detergent and the ad claim will still be true, because what this claim really means is that this detergent does not in fact leave your dishes spotless. Whenever you see or hear an ad claim that uses this word, just translate that claim into its real meaning. So the product that virtually never needs service becomes the product that is
not in fact service free. 【題組】11.
Which of the following best explains Weasel Words?
(A)double-speak
(B)words that are used to mislead without outright lying
(C)words that make the negative disappear
(D)words that make the reader feel flattered
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