Journal of Technical Writing and Communication Jan 1989

Amplification in Technical Manuals: Theory and Practice

M. Jimmie Killingsworth University of Memphis ; Michael K. Gilbertson Oregon Institute of Technology ; Joe Chew Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

Abstract

Amplification is the set of rhetorical techniques by which a discourse is elaborated and extended to enhance its appeal and information value. Even in the manual, long considered the most laconic of the genres of technical communication, amplification has its place. Drawing on the theory of classical and modern rhetoric, this article shows how amplification tends to increase and improve the coverage, rationale, warnings, behavioral alternatives, examples, previews, reviews, and general emphasis of technical manuals.

Journal
Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Published
1989-01-01
DOI
10.2190/aql3-wg5b-7gwa-k59b
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Topics
modern rhetorical theory rhetorical criticism genre theory discourse analysis technical communication
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Citation Context

Cited by in this index (3)

  1. Todd (1998)
    A Longinian concept and methodology for technical communication
    Technical Communication Quarterly
  2. Harmon (1994)
    The uses of metaphor in citation classics from the scientific literature
    Technical Communication Quarterly
  3. Goodwin (1991)
    Emplotting the Reader: Motivation and Technical Documentation
    Journal of Technical Writing and Communication

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