Polite Alternatives for Commenting on Appearance: A Guide for SEO and Content Marketers

If you're an SEOer or a content marketer, understanding how to craft content that is both informative and considerate is crucial. Communicating the right way about topics like appearance can often be tricky. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you use more polite and considerate language, ensuring your content meets Google's standards for readability and user experience.

Introduction to Considerate Language

Commenting on another person's appearance can be a sensitive matter. It's not just a matter of grammar or tone; it’s about respecting another human being. While it's generally accepted that direct and honest feedback can be useful, the potential for harm or offense often outweighs the benefits, especially in online contexts where tone and intention are easily misinterpreted.

Avoiding Imprecise Descriptions

Direct descriptions of appearance can often foster unfavorable assumptions. For example, referring to someone as 'puffy' may imply they are pregnant or have an allergic reaction, neither of which is polite verbiage. If you’re unsure about the context, it’s best to stay vague or avoid commentary altogether.

Example: Instead of saying, 'They are probably pregnant or having an allergic reaction,' consider saying, 'They seem a bit swollen today.'

Not Politely Making Inquiries

Asking about a person's appearance can be misinterpreted or come off as intrusive. Unless you are a close friend or family member with a valid health concern, it's best to steer clear of such inquiries. If it’s a close relationship, even then, the question should always be asked privately and with genuine care.

Example: Instead of saying, 'Do you mind if I ask if you’re pregnant or having an allergic reaction?,' you could say, 'I noticed you seem a bit unwell, are you okay?'

guard Against Medical Emmergencies

There are instances where comments about appearance are necessary, particularly in medical emergencies. However, these situations are few and far between, and even then, brevity is key. If you notice something that could be a stroke or an allergic reaction, it's best to immediately acknowledge the situation and advise them to seek medical help.

Example: If you see someone with a potential allergic reaction, say, 'I noticed you seem to be having trouble breathing, do you have your EpiPen with you and do you need medical attention?'

Avoiding Comparisons

Making comments like 'You're twice the person I am' can be deeply hurtful, even if the intention is to be affirming. Such remarks can be seen as dismissive or insulting rather than encouraging. To avoid any possible offense, focus on genuine, supportive statements rather than comparative ones.

Example: Instead of saying, 'You're twice the person I am,' you could say, 'You've really been going above and beyond lately, I'm so impressed.'

Using Polite Phrases

Using polite and considerate language can greatly enhance the tone of your content. Here are a few alternatives to consider:

“You are looking well” instead of just ‘You look good’ “They seemed a bit unwell today” instead of ‘They looked sick’ “You look healthy” instead of ‘You are healthy’

These alternatives not only soften your language but also respect the privacy and autonomy of the individuals you mention.

By adopting a more considerate and polite approach to communication, you ensure that your content is more inclusive and less likely to offend or upset readers. Not only does this respect your audience, but it also aligns with Google's standards for content quality and user experience.