Other Ways to Say “Contextual”: Expanding Your Vocabulary

Understanding how to express the idea of something being “contextual” in different ways is crucial for clear and nuanced communication. The word “contextual” itself is often used in academic writing, professional settings, and everyday conversation, but relying on it exclusively can limit your ability to convey precise shades of meaning.

This article delves into a variety of alternatives, providing definitions, examples, and practice exercises to help you broaden your vocabulary and express yourself more effectively. Whether you’re an ESL learner, a student, or a professional seeking to refine your writing and speaking skills, this guide will equip you with the tools you need to communicate with greater accuracy and sophistication.

By exploring synonyms and related terms, we’ll uncover the subtle differences in meaning and usage that can elevate your language skills. This knowledge will enable you to choose the most appropriate word for each specific situation, leading to clearer, more impactful communication.

From “circumstantial” to “situational” to “pertinent,” each alternative offers a unique perspective on how context influences meaning. Let’s embark on this linguistic journey and discover the rich tapestry of words that can replace “contextual.”

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Definition of “Contextual”
  3. Structural Breakdown
  4. Types and Categories of Alternatives
  5. Examples
  6. Usage Rules
  7. Common Mistakes
  8. Practice Exercises
  9. Advanced Topics
  10. FAQ
  11. Conclusion

Definition of “Contextual”

The word “contextual” refers to something that is related to or dependent on the context. Context, in this sense, encompasses the circumstances, facts, and conditions that surround a particular event, statement, or idea. Understanding the context is crucial for accurate interpretation and comprehension. “Contextual” highlights the importance of considering these surrounding factors to grasp the full meaning.

The term can be used in various fields, including linguistics, literature, psychology, and computer science. In linguistics, for instance, the meaning of a word can be highly contextual, varying based on the sentence and surrounding text.

In psychology, understanding a person’s behavior requires considering their contextual background and experiences. The adjective “contextual” essentially emphasizes that something cannot be fully understood or analyzed in isolation; it must be viewed within its specific context.

The word “contextual” functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate their dependence on or relevance to a particular context. It’s derived from the noun “context,” which originates from the Latin word “contexere,” meaning “to weave together.” This etymology underscores the idea that context is the interwoven fabric of circumstances that gives meaning to something.

Structural Breakdown

The word “contextual” is formed by adding the suffix “-al” to the noun “context.” The suffix “-al” is commonly used to transform nouns into adjectives, indicating a relationship to or characteristic of the noun. Therefore, “contextual” means “relating to context” or “characterized by context.”

The typical structure in which “contextual” is used involves placing it before a noun to describe it. For instance, “contextual information,” “contextual analysis,” or “contextual clues.” In these examples, “contextual” modifies the nouns “information,” “analysis,” and “clues,” respectively, indicating that these elements are related to or dependent on the surrounding context.

Understanding this structural pattern allows for the easy integration of “contextual” into various sentence constructions. It also aids in recognizing the word’s function within a sentence and its contribution to the overall meaning.

The adjective “contextual” can also be part of a predicate adjective construction, such as “The evidence is contextual,” where it describes the nature of the subject, “evidence.”

Types and Categories of Alternatives

While “contextual” is a useful term, several alternatives can provide more specific nuances depending on the situation. Here are some categories of words that can be used in place of “contextual,” along with their definitions and subtle differences:

Situational

“Situational” emphasizes that something is dependent on the specific circumstances or situation at hand. It highlights the immediate conditions that influence an event or action.

This word focuses on the specific scenario and its unique characteristics.

Circumstantial

“Circumstantial” refers to something that is influenced by the surrounding circumstances or incidental conditions. It often implies that the evidence or information is not direct but rather inferred from the context.

It focuses on the indirect factors.

Relevant

“Relevant” indicates that something is closely connected to the matter at hand and is important or appropriate to consider. It highlights the direct relationship between the information and the subject being discussed.

It focuses on the pertinence and significance of the information.

Pertinent

“Pertinent” is similar to “relevant” but suggests a more direct and crucial connection. It implies that the information is essential for understanding or resolving the issue.

It emphasizes the necessity of the information.

“Related” simply means connected or associated with something else. It indicates a general link but doesn’t necessarily imply direct influence or dependence.

It focuses on the connection or association.

Germane

“Germane” means relevant and appropriate to the subject at hand. It emphasizes that the information is directly and significantly connected to the topic being discussed.

This is often used in formal contexts.

Applicable

“Applicable” means capable of being applied or relevant to a particular situation or person. It highlights the usefulness or suitability of something in a specific context.

It focuses on the practical relevance of the information.

Conditional

“Conditional” means subject to one or more conditions or requirements being met. It indicates that something is dependent on certain prerequisites or circumstances being fulfilled.

It emphasizes the dependence on specific conditions.

Dependent

“Dependent” means relying on or being controlled by someone or something else. It highlights the reliance of one thing on another for its existence, operation, or meaning.

It focuses on the reliance or subordination.

Examples

To illustrate the nuances between “contextual” and its alternatives, let’s examine specific examples in different contexts. These examples will showcase how each word can be used to convey a slightly different meaning, adding depth and precision to your communication.

Situational Examples

The following table demonstrates the use of “situational” in place of “contextual” to emphasize the importance of specific circumstances.

Original Sentence (Using “Contextual”) Revised Sentence (Using “Situational”) Explanation
The meaning of his words was highly contextual. The meaning of his words was highly situational. Emphasizes that the meaning depended on the specific circumstances of the conversation.
Contextual awareness is crucial in this profession. Situational awareness is crucial in this profession. Highlights the importance of being aware of the immediate environment and circumstances.
The contextual factors influenced her decision. The situational factors influenced her decision. Focuses on the immediate circumstances that affected her choice.
The contextual analysis revealed hidden meanings. The situational analysis revealed hidden meanings. Highlights the analysis of the specific situation to uncover underlying meanings.
His contextual understanding of the problem was impressive. His situational understanding of the problem was impressive. Emphasizes his grasp of the specific circumstances surrounding the problem.
The therapy is designed to address contextual issues. The therapy is designed to address situational issues. Indicates that the therapy targets problems arising from specific situations.
Contextual learning is more effective in this case. Situational learning is more effective in this case. Highlights learning that is tailored to specific situations.
The contextual challenges were significant. The situational challenges were significant. Focuses on the difficulties arising from the specific circumstances.
We need a contextual approach to solving this issue. We need a situational approach to solving this issue. Highlights the need for an approach that considers the specific situation.
Contextual factors played a major role in the outcome. Situational factors played a major role in the outcome. Emphasizes the impact of the specific circumstances on the result.
The contextual cues were misleading. The situational cues were misleading. Highlights that the clues within the immediate situation were deceptive.
Contextual evidence supported their claim. Situational evidence supported their claim. Focuses on the evidence derived from the specific situation.
The contextual details are important for understanding the event. The situational details are important for understanding the event. Emphasizes the importance of the specifics of the situation.
The contextual background is necessary for interpreting the data. The situational background is necessary for interpreting the data. Highlights the need to understand the circumstances surrounding the data.
Her contextual knowledge helped her navigate the situation. Her situational knowledge helped her navigate the situation. Emphasizes her understanding of the immediate circumstances.
Contextual pressures influenced their decision-making. Situational pressures influenced their decision-making. Focuses on the pressures arising from the specific situation.
The contextual constraints limited their options. The situational constraints limited their options. Highlights the limitations imposed by the specific circumstances.
Contextual variables affected the results. Situational variables affected the results. Emphasizes the variables specific to the situation.
Contextual relevance is key to effective communication. Situational relevance is key to effective communication. Highlights the importance of being relevant to the specific situation.
The contextual framework is essential for understanding the problem. The situational framework is essential for understanding the problem. Emphasizes the importance of the framework of the specific situation.
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Circumstantial Examples

The following table illustrates how “circumstantial” can replace “contextual” when highlighting the influence of surrounding conditions.

Original Sentence (Using “Contextual”) Revised Sentence (Using “Circumstantial”) Explanation
The evidence was largely contextual. The evidence was largely circumstantial. Suggests that the evidence was based on indirect conditions rather than direct proof.
His guilt was inferred from contextual clues. His guilt was inferred from circumstantial clues. Highlights that the clues were based on surrounding circumstances.
The contextual details pointed to a different conclusion. The circumstantial details pointed to a different conclusion. Emphasizes that the surrounding circumstances suggested a different outcome.
Contextual factors made it difficult to prove his innocence. Circumstantial factors made it difficult to prove his innocence. Highlights that the surrounding circumstances hindered the proof of his innocence.
The case relied heavily on contextual evidence. The case relied heavily on circumstantial evidence. Indicates that the evidence was based on indirect circumstances.
Contextual pressures influenced their behavior. Circumstantial pressures influenced their behavior. Focuses on the pressures arising from the surrounding circumstances.
The contextual constraints limited their options. The circumstantial constraints limited their options. Highlights the limitations imposed by the surrounding circumstances.
The contextual variables affected the outcome. The circumstantial variables affected the outcome. Emphasizes the variables present due to surrounding circumstances.
The contextual details are important but not definitive. The circumstantial details are important but not definitive. Highlights that the details are based on surrounding circumstances and not direct proof.
The analysis was based on contextual data. The analysis was based on circumstantial data. Indicates that the data was derived from surrounding circumstances.
His explanation was contextual and vague. His explanation was circumstantial and vague. Highlights that his explanation depended on the surrounding circumstances and lacked directness.
The investigation focused on contextual elements. The investigation focused on circumstantial elements. Emphasizes that the investigation considered the surrounding circumstances.
The contextual report outlined the surrounding events. The circumstantial report outlined the surrounding events. Highlights that the report detailed the events based on surrounding circumstances.
The contextual framework was incomplete. The circumstantial framework was incomplete. Indicates that the framework based on surrounding circumstances was lacking.
Contextual knowledge helped them understand the situation. Circumstantial knowledge helped them understand the situation. Emphasizes that their understanding was based on knowledge of the surrounding circumstances.
Contextual relevance is key to understanding the situation. Circumstantial relevance is key to understanding the situation. Highlights the importance of the surrounding circumstances for understanding the situation.
The contextual details are open to interpretation. The circumstantial details are open to interpretation. Indicates that the details based on surrounding circumstances are subject to different interpretations.
Contextual evidence suggests a different narrative. Circumstantial evidence suggests a different narrative. Emphasizes that the evidence based on surrounding circumstances points to an alternative story.
The contextual limitations made it difficult to assess. The circumstantial limitations made it difficult to assess. Highlights the limitations imposed by the surrounding circumstances.
The contextual factors are subject to change. The circumstantial factors are subject to change. Indicates that the surrounding circumstances are not constant.

Relevant Examples

This table shows how “relevant” can replace “contextual” to emphasize the importance and pertinence of information.

Original Sentence (Using “Contextual”) Revised Sentence (Using “Relevant”) Explanation
Contextual information is crucial for understanding the issue. Relevant information is crucial for understanding the issue. Emphasizes that the information is directly connected and important for comprehension.
His argument lacked contextual details. His argument lacked relevant details. Highlights that his argument was missing important and pertinent information.
The contextual data supported her claim. The relevant data supported her claim. Indicates that the data was directly connected to and supported her claim.
We need to consider the contextual factors. We need to consider the relevant factors. Emphasizes that the factors are important and pertinent to the situation.
Contextual knowledge is essential for this task. Relevant knowledge is essential for this task. Highlights that the knowledge is directly applicable and important for the task.
Contextual examples would clarify the point. Relevant examples would clarify the point. Indicates that the examples are directly related and helpful for understanding.
The contextual findings were significant. The relevant findings were significant. Emphasizes that the findings are important and pertinent to the research.
Contextual research is needed to address this issue. Relevant research is needed to address this issue. Highlights the need for research that is directly connected to the issue.
The contextual guidelines are important to follow. The relevant guidelines are important to follow. Indicates that the guidelines are directly applicable and important.
Contextual variables need to be controlled. Relevant variables need to be controlled. Emphasizes that the variables are important and need to be managed.
His comments were not contextual to the discussion. His comments were not relevant to the discussion. Highlights that his comments were not connected or important to the discussion.
The contextual sources are listed below. The relevant sources are listed below. Indicates that the sources are directly connected and important for the topic.
Contextual information is provided for clarity. Relevant information is provided for clarity. Emphasizes that the information is important and helps to clarify the topic.
The contextual questions were insightful. The relevant questions were insightful. Highlights that the questions were pertinent and insightful.
Contextual data was used to support the analysis. Relevant data was used to support the analysis. Indicates that the data was important and used to support the analysis.
Contextual details were omitted from the report. Relevant details were omitted from the report. Highlights that important details were left out.
The contextual factors influenced the outcome. The relevant factors influenced the outcome. Emphasizes that the important factors affected the result.
Contextual examples illustrate the concept. Relevant examples illustrate the concept. Indicates that the examples are important and illustrate the concept.
Contextual evidence supports the theory. Relevant evidence supports the theory. Highlights that the evidence is important and supports the theory.
Contextual insights were provided. Relevant insights were provided. Emphasizes that the insights are important and pertinent.
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Pertinent Examples

This table presents examples of using “pertinent” instead of “contextual” to emphasize crucial and essential information.

Original Sentence (Using “Contextual”) Revised Sentence (Using “Pertinent”) Explanation
Contextual details are crucial for understanding the case. Pertinent details are crucial for understanding the case. Emphasizes that the details are essential and directly related to understanding.
The contextual information is vital to the investigation. The pertinent information is vital to the investigation. Highlights that the information is essential and critical for the investigation.
Contextual questions were raised during the meeting. Pertinent questions were raised during the meeting. Indicates that the questions were directly related and important to the topic.
Contextual evidence supports the claim. Pertinent evidence supports the claim. Emphasizes that the evidence is essential and directly supports the claim.
The contextual data is essential for the analysis. The pertinent data is essential for the analysis. Highlights that the data is crucial and necessary for the analysis.
Contextual factors influenced the decision. Pertinent factors influenced the decision. Indicates that the factors were essential and directly impacted the decision.
Contextual examples clarify the concept. Pertinent examples clarify the concept. Emphasizes that the examples are essential and help to clarify the concept.
The contextual details were carefully selected. The pertinent details were carefully selected. Highlights that the details were chosen because they are essential and relevant.
Contextual knowledge is necessary for this task. Pertinent knowledge is necessary for this task. Indicates that the knowledge is essential and required for the task.
Contextual information is provided for clarity. Pertinent information is provided for clarity. Emphasizes that the information is crucial and helps to clarify the topic.
Only contextual facts should be considered. Only pertinent facts should be considered. Highlights that only the essential facts should be taken into account.
The contextual variables were closely monitored. The pertinent variables were closely monitored. Emphasizes that the essential variables were carefully observed.
Contextual elements are key to understanding the situation. Pertinent elements are key to understanding the situation. Highlights that the essential elements are crucial for comprehension.
Contextual aspects were considered in the evaluation. Pertinent aspects were considered in the evaluation. Indicates that the essential aspects were taken into account in the assessment.
The contextual details provide insight into the problem. The pertinent details provide insight into the problem. Emphasizes that the essential details offer understanding of the problem.
Contextual data was used in the analysis. Pertinent data was used in the analysis. Highlights that the essential data was used for the analysis.
Contextual examples are provided to illustrate the concept. Pertinent examples are provided to illustrate the concept. Emphasizes that the essential examples illustrate the concept.
Contextual observations were documented. Pertinent observations were documented. Indicates that the essential observations were recorded.
The contextual guidelines are important. The pertinent guidelines are important. Emphasizes that the essential guidelines are important.
Contextual information is key to decision making. Pertinent information is key to decision making. Highlights that the essential information is crucial for making decisions.

The following table demonstrates the use of “related” in place of “contextual” to emphasize the connection or association with a particular topic or situation.

Original Sentence (Using “Contextual”) Revised Sentence (Using “Related”) Explanation
Contextual factors influenced the outcome. Related factors influenced the outcome. Emphasizes that the factors were connected or associated with the outcome.
Contextual information is helpful for understanding the topic. Related information is helpful for understanding the topic. Highlights that the information is connected or associated with the topic.
Contextual research is needed to investigate the issue. Related research is needed to investigate the issue. Indicates that the research is connected or associated with the issue.
Contextual examples help to illustrate the concept. Related examples help to illustrate the concept. Emphasizes that the examples are connected or associated with the concept.
Contextual details are important for the analysis. Related details are important for the analysis. Highlights that the details are connected or associated with the analysis.
Contextual data was used to support the findings. Related data was used to support the findings. Indicates that the data was connected or associated with the findings.
Contextual discussions are encouraged during the meeting. Related discussions are encouraged during the meeting. Emphasizes that the discussions are connected or associated with the meeting’s topic.
Contextual documents are available for review. Related documents are available for review. Highlights that the documents are connected or associated with the topic.
Contextual variables were considered in the study. Related variables were considered in the study. Indicates that the variables were connected or associated with the study.
Contextual concerns were addressed during the project. Related concerns were addressed during the project. Emphasizes that the concerns were connected or associated with the project.
Contextual ideas were presented at the conference. Related ideas were presented at the conference. Highlights that the ideas were connected or associated with the conference theme.
Contextual resources were provided to assist with the task. Related resources were provided to assist with the task. Indicates that the resources are connected or associated with the task.
Contextual issues were discussed during the workshop. Related issues were discussed during the workshop. Emphasizes that the issues were connected or associated with the workshop topic.
Contextual events were analyzed in the report. Related events were analyzed in the report. Highlights that the events were connected or associated with the report’s subject.
Contextual factors contributed to the problem. Related factors contributed to the problem. Indicates that the factors were connected or associated with the problem.
Contextual matters were addressed by the committee. Related matters were addressed by the committee. Emphasizes that the matters were connected or associated with the committee’s work.
Contextual observations were made during the experiment. Related observations were made during the experiment. Highlights that the observations were connected or associated with the experiment.
Contextual themes were identified in the literature. Related themes were identified in the literature. Indicates that the themes were connected or associated with the literature’s subject.
Contextual studies were conducted on the topic. Related studies were conducted on the topic. Emphasizes that the studies were connected or associated with the topic.
Contextual challenges were overcome during the project. Related challenges were overcome during the project. Highlights that the challenges were connected or associated with the project’s goals.
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Usage Rules

When choosing an alternative to “contextual,” it’s important to consider the specific nuance you want to convey. “Situational” emphasizes the immediate circumstances, “circumstantial” highlights indirect evidence, “relevant” denotes importance, “pertinent” suggests essential information, and “related” indicates a general connection.

Understanding these subtle differences will help you select the most appropriate word for a given situation.

Pay attention to the context in which you are writing or speaking. Formal writing often benefits from using “pertinent” or “germane,” while informal conversation might be better suited to “situational” or “related.” Always ensure that the chosen alternative accurately reflects the meaning you intend to communicate.

Avoid using alternatives to “contextual” simply for the sake of variety. The goal is to improve clarity and precision, not to create unnecessary complexity.

If “contextual” is the most accurate and appropriate word, there is no need to replace it. The key is to use the word that best conveys the intended meaning in the most straightforward way.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is using “relevant” when “pertinent” would be more appropriate. “Relevant” simply means connected, while “pertinent” implies a crucial and essential connection.

For example, saying “relevant information” is correct, but “pertinent information” is better when the information is absolutely necessary for understanding.

Another frequent error is using “situational” when the intention is to highlight indirect evidence. “Situational” refers to the immediate circumstances, whereas “circumstantial” is more suitable for describing evidence that is inferred from the surrounding context.

For example, “The evidence was situational” is incorrect if the evidence is based on indirect clues; the correct usage would be “The evidence was circumstantial.”

A third mistake is using “related” when a stronger connection is intended. “Related” simply indicates a connection, but it doesn’t necessarily imply importance or direct influence.

If you want to emphasize the importance of the connection, “relevant” or “pertinent” would be more appropriate. For instance, “The related factors influenced the decision” is less impactful than “The relevant factors influenced the decision” if those factors were crucial to the outcome.

Here are some examples of common mistakes and their corrections:

Incorrect Sentence Correct Sentence Explanation
The situational evidence proved his guilt. The circumstantial evidence proved his guilt. “Circumstantial” is more appropriate for indirect evidence.
Relevant details are not important. Pertinent details are not important. “Pertinent” implies a more crucial and essential importance.
The circumstantial factors directly caused the problem. The situational factors directly caused the problem. The situational factors are more appropriate for direct cause.
His explanation was very related. His explanation was very relevant. “Relevant” is more suitable for indicating importance to the discussion.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of the alternatives to “contextual” with these exercises. Choose the best word to replace “contextual” in each sentence.

  1. The ___________ details helped to clarify the situation. (situational, circumstantial, relevant, pertinent)
  2. The evidence was largely ___________. (situational, circumstantial, relevant, pertinent)
  3. ___________ information is essential for understanding the topic. (situational, circumstantial, relevant, pertinent)
  4. The ___________ factors influenced the decision. (situational, circumstantial, relevant, pertinent)
  5. His comments were not ___________ to the discussion. (situational, circumstantial, relevant, pertinent)
  6. We need to consider the ___________ variables in our analysis. (situational, circumstantial, related, pertinent)
  7. The ___________ data supported the claim. (situational, related, relevant, pertinent)
  8. The ___________ examples helped to illustrate the concept. (related, circumstantial, relevant, pertinent)
  9. The ___________ sources are listed below for further reading. (situational, circumstantial, related, pertinent)
  10. The ___________ information provided clarity to the confusing situation. (situational, circumstantial, relevant, related)

Answer Key:

  1. Pertinent
  2. Circumstantial
  3. Relevant
  4. Situational
  5. Relevant
  6. Related
  7. Relevant
  8. Related
  9. Related
  10. Relevant

Exercise 2: Rewrite the following sentences using a suitable alternative for “contextual.”

  1. The contextual information is crucial for understanding the report.
  2. The case relied heavily on contextual evidence.
  3. We need a contextual approach to solving this problem.
  4. Contextual factors played a significant role in the outcome.
  5. The contextual details are open to interpretation.
  6. Contextual knowledge is essential for this task.
  7. Contextual variables need to be

    carefully monitored.

Advanced Topics

For those looking to delve deeper, consider exploring the philosophical implications of context. Contextualism in epistemology, for example, argues that knowledge claims are always relative to a specific context.

Understanding this perspective can provide a more nuanced appreciation of how context shapes meaning and understanding.

Another advanced topic is the role of context in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Natural language processing (NLP) relies heavily on contextual analysis to understand the meaning of text.

Exploring how AI systems interpret and utilize context can offer insights into the challenges and possibilities of creating truly intelligent machines.

Finally, consider the cultural and historical dimensions of context. Different cultures and historical periods have unique contexts that influence communication and interpretation.

Studying these differences can enhance your cross-cultural communication skills and broaden your understanding of human behavior.

FAQ

When is it best to use “situational” instead of “contextual”?

Use “situational” when you want to emphasize the specific circumstances or immediate environment that influences something. It’s best when the context is very specific and time-bound.

What’s the difference between “circumstantial” and “contextual”?

“Circumstantial” refers to indirect evidence or conditions that surround an event, whereas “contextual” is a more general term that simply means related to the context. Use “circumstantial” when you want to highlight that the evidence is not direct but rather inferred from the circumstances.

How do I know when to use “relevant” instead of “contextual”?

Use “relevant” when you want to emphasize that the information is important and directly connected to the matter at hand. It’s best when the information is pertinent and significant for understanding.

Is “pertinent” always a better choice than “relevant”?

Not necessarily. “Pertinent” suggests a more crucial and essential connection than “relevant.” Use “pertinent” when the information is absolutely necessary for understanding or resolving the issue.

If the information is simply important but not essential, “relevant” is sufficient.

Can “related” always replace “contextual”?

No, “related” has a weaker connotation than “contextual.” It simply means connected or associated. Use “related” when you want to indicate a general link but don’t necessarily imply direct influence or dependence.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of using alternatives to “contextual” can significantly enhance your communication skills. By understanding the nuances of words like “situational,” “circumstantial,” “relevant,” and “pertinent,” you can express yourself with greater precision and clarity.

This guide has provided you with the definitions, examples, and practice exercises you need to expand your vocabulary and use language more effectively.

Remember, the key is to choose the word that best conveys the intended meaning in the specific context. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different alternatives and pay attention to how they affect the overall message.

With practice and attention to detail, you can elevate your writing and speaking skills to a new level of sophistication. Keep exploring, keep learning, and keep refining your language skills to become a more effective communicator.

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