Avoiding Confusing Words and Phrases in Health Writing, and What to Use Instead

Avoiding confusing or ambiguous terms in health writing is key to ensuring that information is understood, trusted, and acted upon.

Clear communication empowers individuals to make informed decisions, supports better health literacy, and fosters positive health outcomes. This article looks at what language can be seen as confusing and why. It also provides tips for reframing the phrases with more clarity.

Why Clear Language Is Important In Health Writing

Confusing or ambiguous terms can leave readers unsure of what the message means. For example, saying “positive test result” without clarifying the outcome can lead to unnecessary anxiety or false reassurance. Clearly explaining whether a result is good or bad helps avoid misunderstandings.

Many people struggle with low health literacy, making it difficult to understand complicated terms or medical jargon. Using confusing language can further isolate individuals with lower literacy levels, reducing their ability to engage with the content and make informed health decisions.

When health information is clear, readers are more likely to follow through on recommended actions. Ambiguous terms can create uncertainty about what steps need to be taken, reducing the likelihood of a timely response.

Clear communication builds trust between the writer (or healthcare provider) and the reader. When people can understand the information easily, they are more likely to trust the source and feel confident in following medical advice.

Unclear language can heighten anxiety, especially when discussing sensitive health topics. Providing clear explanations helps readers feel more in control of their health and less worried about the unknown.

Confusing Words And Phrases

Sometimes, vague or incorrect language can mislead or misinform the audience. For example, saying “cure” for chronic conditions can create unrealistic expectations, whereas terms like “treatment” or “management” set more accurate expectations about ongoing care.

1. “Positive Test Result”

A “positive” test result can mean different things depending on the type of test. For example, a positive result for a pregnancy test is typically good news for someone trying to conceive, but a positive result for a disease screening (e.g., COVID-19, HIV) is bad news. Without specifying the condition or explaining the result, it leaves readers guessing whether “positive” is good or bad.

• Instead of: The test came back positive.
• Use: The test showed you have the disease (or condition), meaning treatment is needed.

2. “Negative Test Result”

Similarly, a “negative” test result can be interpreted as bad news, but in many health contexts, it’s actually a good outcome (e.g., a negative result for cancer). Without clarification, readers may think “negative” indicates a problem.

• Instead of: You received a negative test result.
• Use: The test showed no signs of disease, which is a good result.

3. “Abnormal Test Result”

The word “abnormal” can sound alarming, but not all abnormal results mean something life-threatening. For example, an abnormal cholesterol test might mean that lifestyle changes are needed, while an abnormal mammogram might require further testing but does not necessarily indicate cancer.

• Instead of: Your results were abnormal.
• Use: Your results were outside the normal range, so further testing or treatment may be needed to understand what’s going on.

4. “Inconclusive Test Result”

“Inconclusive” can be a very confusing term for patients. It may sound like there’s something wrong, or it might make people think they’re in the clear. In reality, an inconclusive result often means that more testing is required because the test couldn’t definitively rule out or confirm a condition.

• Instead of: Your test was inconclusive.
• Use: The test didn’t give a clear result, so we need to do more testing to get a better understanding.

5. “False Positive”

A “false positive” means the test incorrectly indicates a condition or disease when it isn’t present. Without context, it’s easy for readers to misunderstand this and think they have the condition when they don’t, or vice versa.

• Instead of: You had a false positive result.
• Use: The test incorrectly showed you had the disease, but further tests show you do not have it.

6. “False Negative”

Similarly, a “false negative” can be extremely confusing if not explained. It means the test failed to detect a condition that is actually present, which can lead to serious consequences if misunderstood.

• Instead of: You had a false negative result.
• Use: The test incorrectly showed you don’t have the disease, but further testing is needed because the disease may still be present.

7. “Reactive Test Result”

“Reactive” is another term that can cause confusion. For example, in HIV testing, a reactive test means the test has detected antibodies, indicating the presence of the virus. However, “reactive” may not be immediately clear to the reader or patient.

• Instead of: The test came back reactive.
• Use: The test detected signs of the virus, so further testing is needed to confirm if you have it.

8. “Borderline” or “Equivocal” Result

These terms suggest the result is not clearly normal or abnormal, which can be very unsettling without proper explanation. It’s important to clarify that more testing or monitoring might be needed.

• Instead of: Your result was borderline/equivocal.
• Use: Your result was unclear, so we need to monitor the condition or do more tests to get a definitive answer.

9. “Elevated”

“Elevated” levels (e.g., blood sugar, cholesterol) may not immediately resonate with the reader as a problem. It’s better to specify whether this means the patient should be concerned or if it’s just something to monitor.

• Instead of: You have elevated cholesterol levels.
• Use: Your cholesterol levels are higher than recommended, which can increase the risk of heart disease, so it’s important to take action.

Guidelines for Avoiding Confusing Language in Health Writing

To prevent miscommunications and confusion, try to follow these guidelines:

• Use Plain Language: Replace medical jargon with simple, everyday words.
• Define Unavoidable Terms: When medical terms are necessary, provide clear explanations.
• Be Specific: Avoid vague terms; clearly explain test results or medical recommendations.
• Short Sentences and Simple Structure: Keep sentences concise and straightforward.
• Use Analogies and Examples: Relate complex ideas to familiar concepts to aid understanding.
• Consider the Audience: Tailor the language to the reader’s health literacy level and background.

Provide Clarity with Your Content

Clear language promotes better health literacy, reduces anxiety, and helps build trust between the reader and the source. It also ensures that individuals are empowered to make informed decisions about their health, leading to more positive health outcomes.

If you’re looking to ensure that your content is clear and concise without causing confusion, let’s talk. Need expert content support? Email me or book a free discovery call today, and let’s explore how I can bring your ideas to life.

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