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The power of simple words - Terin Izil

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Long, fancy words designed to show off your intelligence and vocabulary are all very well, but they aren't always the best words. In this short, playful video Terin Izil explains why simple, punchy language is often the clearest way to convey a message.

Each of these $10 words comes from a different discipline: Thrombophlebitis, Collateral damage and Coulis. Which discipline does each belong to? What does each mean, in plain terms? And are the motivations for using $10 words the same or not, in each case?

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Animator Sunni Brown
  • Educator Terin Izil
  • Narrator Terin Izil

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