Which of the following is the best example of concreteness?
a. I’m from the States.
b. My hometown is Isle, Minnesota, population 409.
c. Sure, I’m from the Midwest.
d. The place where I’m from is the friendliest town in America.
The correct answer and explanation is :
Correct Answer: b. My hometown is Isle, Minnesota, population 409.
Explanation:
Concreteness in communication refers to the quality of being specific, definite, and vivid, rather than vague or general. A concrete statement provides clear, detailed information that leaves little room for interpretation. It often includes proper names, numbers, facts, and observable details that paint a vivid picture in the listener’s or reader’s mind.
Let’s analyze the options:
- a. “I’m from the States.”
This is a vague and general statement. “The States” could mean any part of the United States, which is a large and diverse country. It lacks specificity about region, state, or town. - b. “My hometown is Isle, Minnesota, population 409.”
This is the most concrete option. It provides a specific town name, state, and even population size, giving the listener a clear mental image of a small town. Such details ground the statement in reality and make it more vivid and memorable. - c. “Sure, I’m from the Midwest.”
This is more specific than option (a) but still general. “The Midwest” includes many states and countless towns. It gives a rough geographical location, but lacks details about the speaker’s exact origin. - d. “The place where I’m from is the friendliest town in America.”
While emotionally expressive and positive, this option is subjective and abstract. It doesn’t give a name, location, or any factual details. Describing a place as “the friendliest” is based on personal perception, not concrete data.
In summary, option (b) exemplifies concreteness because it offers precise, verifiable details. In professional writing, speech, or interpersonal communication, concreteness is essential to avoid misunderstandings and create trust. By naming the town and population, the speaker not only informs but also paints a vivid image for the listener. This makes the message more engaging and credible.