Living in a day and age that is inundated with information and data, it can be difficult to comprehend the sheer number of ideas and opinions that exist. From the time that people wake up to the moment they go to sleep, they are constantly bombarded with opinions and perspectives, both of their own formulation and those of others. The ability to conceptualise and discuss concepts and opinions is an invaluable tool. But the ability to comprehend and measure them is just as important.
In order to be an effective communicator, strong evaluative skills are essential. This is where the concept of rating words come in. Rating words are key words used to indicate a level of intensity, importance, or quality for a given opinion or idea. Rating words allow for greater clarity and precision in communication, as well as a more effective exercise of judgement.
Rating words are categorized into three levels of intensity starting from the highest. These levels of intensity are often referred to as superlative, comparative, and negative. Superlative words refer to the highest level of intensity, often used to describe something as the best, most, or greatest. Comparative words indicate a lower level of intensity, where something is described as being better, less, or higher. Negative words are used to indicate the lowest level of intensity, as something is worst, least, or lower.
In addition to these three levels of intensity, rating words can also be divided into two general categories: subjective and objective. Subjective rating words rely on personal opinion, opinion from outside sources, or opinion from groups of people. Examples of subjective rating words may include phrases such as amazing, brilliant, or horrible.
On the other hand, objective rating words rely on facts, measurement, or analysis of tangible evidence to form an opinion. Objective rating words may include phrases such as quantifiable, exceeding expectations, or underperforming.
Rating words are a critical tool in evaluating opinions or ideas with greater accuracy. They allow for a more accurate and precise assessment of the opinion or idea at hand, as well as a more effective exercise of judgement. As a result, they are invaluable to effective communication.
