2.4 Using noun groups to write more concisely
Activity 4
As well as adding information so that the writer can say what they mean more clearly and accurately, noun groups can help the writer to say something in fewer words.
For example:
(a) The rights to broadcast sporting events on radio and television have become more lucrative. (14 words)
becomes
Broadcasting rights for sports events have become more lucrative. (9 words)
(b) The open-air market which takes place in the town of Béthune (11 words)
becomes
Béthune’s open-air market (3 words).
Rewrite the sentences below using a noun group to reduce the number of words and create one sentence.
(a) The first magazines which were produced about sports appeared in the eighteenth century. They had a small circulation. (18 words)
Answer
(a) The first sports magazines produced in the eighteenth century had a small circulation. (13 words)
(b) Radio, television and the internet all provide coverage of sporting events. This coverage has transformed sports media into an industry which operates all over the world. (26 words)
Answer
(b) The coverage provided by radio, television and the internet has transformed sports media into a global industry. (17 words)
(c) The warship which was commanded by Admiral Nelson was called the HMS Victory. It is now a major tourist attraction. (20 words)
Answer
(c) Admiral Nelson’s warship, HMS Victory, is now a major tourist attraction. (11 words)
(d) Volunteers who work on the preservation of HMS Victory have gained a lot of specialist knowledge. They share this knowledge with academics, school parties and other visitors. (27 words)
Answer
(d) Specialist knowledge gained by volunteers working on preserving HMS Victory is shared with academics, school parties and other visitors. (19 words)