Saw an article yesterday about how overusing "etc." in emails and texts can make you seem vague or even dismissive. I mean, I get it...but is it really that big a deal? Seems kinda nitpicky to me. Curious if others feel the same or if I'm just being too chill about it.
"Seems kinda nitpicky to me."
Yeah, gotta agree with you there. I mean, sure, if every other sentence ends with "etc." it can feel a bit lazy or rushed, but honestly, most people probably don't even notice. Reminds me of clients who say things like "I want new cabinets, countertops, flooring, etc." and then expect me to magically know exactly what "etc." means. It's mildly annoying, but nothing worth losing sleep over.
I think context matters a lot here. In casual texts or quick emails, it's just shorthand—no biggie. But in detailed communications, especially when specifics matter (like when I'm ordering materials or giving instructions to my crew), clarity is king. So yeah, maybe save the "etc." for when details aren't crucial...or when you're just too tired to type out the whole list.
Yeah, I get what you're saying. Honestly, I've had similar experiences—clients giving vague lists and expecting me to fill in the blanks. But I think most folks just use "etc." as a quick shortcut without realizing it can cause confusion. Usually, a gentle follow-up question clears things up pretty fast. It's a minor annoyance, sure, but nothing that can't be handled with a bit of patience and clarification.
"Usually, a gentle follow-up question clears things up pretty fast."
Yeah, that's pretty much my experience too. I mean, it can be a bit frustrating at first when someone drops an "etc." and you're left guessing what they actually want. But honestly, most people don't even realize they're being vague—they're just trying to save time or typing effort. I've found that asking something like, "Could you give me an example or two?" usually sorts things out without much hassle. It's just one of those little quirks we gotta navigate, I guess...
Yeah, that's pretty much my experience too.
I get what you're saying about just asking for clarification, but honestly, it still bugs me a bit. Not enough to make a fuss over, but it does feel lazy sometimes. Like when my contractor says "We'll handle the drywall, painting, etc."—I'm left wondering if "etc." means cleanup too or if I'm stuck sweeping up drywall dust myself. Usually it's harmless, but occasionally it can lead to misunderstandings or extra hassle.