Entry N°14: Hedging and Boosting

There are several characteristics which distinguish hedgind and boosting in academic writing. Hedging is the use of linguistic devices to express hesitation or uncertainty as well as to demonstrate politeness and indirectness. In contrast, boosting express confidence. Hedging has its benefits: hedges suggest that the writer is careful, nuanced and keen to avoid generalizations. A text that contains hedging is an open text, a text that invites debate and further research. On the other hand, the danger with boosters is that they can make you seem cocky and pompous. However, if you use them sparingly they can convey the right amount of self-assurance. The use of boosters will convince your reader that you know your stuff and you are an expert in your field.

Here are some examples: 

HEDGING 

• Categorical claim: The issues highlighted in this study are applicable to all participating institutions. Hedged claim: The issues highlighted in this study may be applicable to many participating institutions. 

• Categorical claim: Government support will assure the spread of new knowledge and this skills necessary to use the internet to thousands of people in rural areas. Hedged claim: Government support may help the spread of new knowledge and this skills necessary to use the internet to thousands of people in rural areas

• Categorical claim: The study proves the link between smoking and lung disease. Hedged claim: The study indicates a possible link between smoking and lung disease. 

• Categorical claim: the number of unemployed people will continue to raise as the poor economic situation persist. Hedged claim: the number of unemployed people will probably  continue to raise as the poor economic situation persist.

• Categorical claim:This (and subsequent) studies led to the conclusion that the GPT itself must be the elusive base,and therefore to th proposal of the GTP-as-base mechanism. Hedged claim:This (and subsequent) studies led to the conclusion that the GPT itself may be the elusive base,and therefore to th proposal of the GTP-as-base mechanism.

BOOSTING

• This had an obvious impact on learning outcomes. 

• Clearly, the sales figures show a definite incrase in consumer confidence, which will undoubtedly have an impact on  our share prices. 

• These figures prove that there has been strong growth as a result of policy change. 

• Employees will always respond positively in such circumstances.