--- title: Resources for Writing for a Global Audience description: AMWA members share their favorite resources for writing clear and translatable content for global audiences. image: https://blog.amwa.org/hubfs/Blog/resources-for-writing-for-a-global-audience.jpg --- - [Engage](http://engage.amwa.org/home) - [Sign In / Manage Profile](https://www.amwa.org/page/ManageProfile_Custom) - [Join Now](https://www.amwa.org/general/register_member_type.asp?) [![AMWA\_logo\_blue\_web\_2019](https://blog.amwa.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Logos/AMWA_logo_blue_web_2019.png?width=781&height=347&name=AMWA_logo_blue_web_2019.png "AMWA_logo_blue_web_2019")](https://www.amwa.org/) - [MEMBERSHIP](https://info.amwa.org/american_medical_writers_association_membership) - [Learn About Membership](https://info.amwa.org/american_medical_writers_association_membership) - [Join AMWA Now](https://www.amwa.org/page/Join) - [Access Member Benefits](https://www.amwa.org/page/Member_Benefits) - [AMWA Engage](https://engage.amwa.org/home) - [Online Community](http://engage.amwa.org/communities) - [Member Directory](http://engage.amwa.org/network/members) - [About AMWA](https://www.amwa.org/page/About_Us) - [Board of Directors](https://www.amwa.org/page/board) - [Mission, Vision, & Values](https://www.amwa.org/page/mission) - [DEI](https://www.amwa.org/page/dei) - [Chapters](https://www.amwa.org/page/Chapters) - [Volunteer](https://www.amwa.org/page/Volunteer) - [Recognition & Awards](https://www.amwa.org/Page/Recognition) - [AMWA Code of Ethics](https://www.amwa.org/page/Code_of_Ethics) - [AMWA Member Testimonials](https://www.amwa.org/member_testimonials) - [EDUCATION](https://www.amwa.org/page/Education) - [AMWA Education](https://www.amwa.org/page/Education) - [Essential Skills](https://www.amwa.org/page/Essential_Skills) - [AMWA Certificates](https://www.amwa.org/page/Certificates) - [Certificate in Essential Skills](https://www.amwa.org/page/ES_Certificate) - [Certificate in Medical Editing](https://www.amwa.org/page/editing_certificate) - [Certificate in Regulatory Writing Core Knowledge](https://www.amwa.org/page/regulatory_certificate) - [Certificate in Regulatory Documents](https://www.amwa.org/page/regulatory_documents) - [Online Learning](https://www.amwa.org/page/Online_Learning) - [Live Webinars](https://www.amwa.org/events/event_list.asp) - [Health Communication](https://www.amwa.org/page/health_communication) - [Onsite Training](https://www.amwa.org/page/Onsite_Training) - [Events Calendar](https://www.amwa.org/events/event_list.asp) - [CAREER](https://www.amwa.org/page/Career) - [AMWA Career](https://www.amwa.org/page/Career) - [Freelance Directory](https://www.amwa.org/page/Freelance_Directory) - [Search the Directory](https://www.amwa.org/search/custom.asp?id=4178) - [Create a Listing](https://www.amwa.org/page/Freelance_Package) - [Compensation and Salary Information](https://www.amwa.org/page/Salary_Survey) - [Advance Your Professional Career](https://info.amwa.org/medical-writing-a-professionals-guide-to-advancing-your-career) - [Expert Tips for Freelance Medical Writing](https://info.amwa.org/expert-tips-for-freelance-medical-writing) - [Guide to Becoming a Medical Writer](https://info.amwa.org/ultimate-guide-to-becoming-a-medical-writer) - [Guide to Regulatory Writing](https://info.amwa.org/a-medical-communicators-guide-to-regulatory-writing) - [Medical Editing Guide](https://info.amwa.org/a-comprehensive-guide-to-medical-editing) - [Value of Medical Writing](https://www.amwa.org/value_medical_writing) - [Employer Resources](https://www.amwa.org/page/Employer_Resources) - [About Medical Communication](https://www.amwa.org/page/Med_Communication) - [CERTIFICATION](https://www.amwa.org/page/MWC) - [MWC](https://www.amwa.org/page/MWC) - [Steps & Fees](https://www.amwa.org/page/mwc_steps) - [Exam Dates](https://www.amwa.org/page/mwc_exam_dates) - [Apply](https://www.amwa.org/page/MWC_Apply) - [Prepare](https://www.amwa.org/page/MWC_Prepare) - [FAQ](https://www.amwa.org/page/MWC_FAQ) - [Recertify](https://www.amwa.org/page/MWC_Recertify) - [View the Current MWCs](https://www.amwa.org/page/MWC_Current) - [About the MWC Commission](https://www.amwa.org/page/MWC_About) - [RESOURCES](https://www.amwa.org/page/Resources) - [AMWA Resources](https://www.amwa.org/page/Resources) - [AMWA Journal](https://www.amwajournal.org) - [Current Issue](https://amwajournal.org/index.php/amwa/issue/current) - [Read Recent Issues](https://amwajournal.org/index.php/amwa/issue/archive) - [Past Issue Archive](https://www.amwa.org/page/Issues_Online) - [Instructions for Contributors](https://amwajournal.org/index.php/amwa/about/submissions) - [Index (1985-2025)](https://www.amwa.org/journal_index) - [Medical Communication News](https://www.amwa.org/page/Med_Comm_News) - [Member Resource Library](https://www.amwa.org/page/Resource_Library) - [Mini Tutorials](https://www.amwa.org/page/Mini_Tutorials) - [Position Statements and Guidelines](https://www.amwa.org/page/Position_Statement) - [Regulatory Writer Training eBook](https://info.amwa.org/regulatory-writer-training-ebook) - [Apprentice Program Framework Overview](https://www.amwa.org/general/custom.asp?page=Apprentice_Program) - [Networking](https://www.amwa.org/page/amwa_networking) - [AMWA Blogs](https://blog.amwa.org) - [Online Store](https://www.amwa.org/store/default.aspx) - [EVENTS](https://www.amwa.org/events/event_list.asp) - [AMWA Event Calendar](https://www.amwa.org/events/event_list.asp) - [Annual Conference](https://www.amwa.org/page/Conference) - [Program](https://www.amwa.org/page/Conference_Program) - [Schedule](https://www.amwa.org/page/at_a_glance) - [Registration](https://www.amwa.org/event/2026annualconf) - [Onsite Experience](https://www.amwa.org/page/Hotel_and_Travel) - [Sponsors and Exhibitors](https://www.amwa.org/page/Exhibit_and_Sponsor) - [Future Conferences](https://www.amwa.org/page/future_AMWA_conferences) - [ONLINE LEARNING](https://www.amwa.org/page/Online_Learning) - [AMWA Online Learning](https://www.amwa.org/page/Online_Learning) - [Catalog](https://amwa.mycrowdwisdom.com/cw/) - [Home](https://www.amwa.org/) - AMWA Blog # Resources for Writing for a Global Audience ![resources-for-writing-for-a-global-audience](https://blog.amwa.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog/resources-for-writing-for-a-global-audience.jpg?width=400&height=267&name=resources-for-writing-for-a-global-audience.jpg)We live in an increasingly globalized world, and the field of medical communication is no exception. In fact, most medical writers and editors are creating materials for a global scientific audience. A number of helpful resources, online and in print, exist to help people write clear, translatable prose for global audiences. ## Introducing “Global English” English is a complex language, full of contradictions, rules, exceptions to rules, and subtleties that make it difficult to translate. Global English is a style that aims to be transparent, clear, logical, predictable, and literal. It is different from the standard English that most native speakers use.  [The United Language Group,](https://www.unitedlanguagegroup.com/learn/what-is-global-english) a global localization, interpretation, and translation services company that promotes the use of Global English, describes a writing style that includes short sentences with a predictable word order. Global English avoids passive voice and metaphors.  In this post, the organization lists [5 Rules for Global English Writing](https://www.unitedlanguagegroup.com/learn/5-rules-for-global-english-writing). 1. Avoid idioms. Idioms are expressions that require specific cultural context. For example, most native English speakers understand a phrase like “under the weather” or “blue in the face.” But imagine trying to translate the phrase or explain it to a non-native speaker. 2. Be literal. Avoid phrases such as “stay on target” or “keep you posted.” Always choose words carefully to make sure you are avoiding metaphors or figurative language. 3. Keep sentences short and clear. Ideally, sentences should not exceed 25 words. Avoid fragments and sentences with multiple clauses. 4. Standardize Global English terminology. When an English word has more than one definition, avoid it and choose another. 5. Revise until the writing can be understood by a global audience. ## Ideas from AMWA Members An AMWA member posed a question about resources that would be helpful when writing for a global audience on [AMWA Engage](https://engage.amwa.org/) — an online discussion platform where members explore topics relevant to medical communication. In response to the question, other members posted some of their favorite resources. ## Two Essential Style Guides [The Elements of International English Style](https://www.amazon.com/Elements-International-English-Style-Correspondence/dp/076561572X) by Edmond H. Weiss is a well-regarded style guide that covers correspondence, reports, technical documents, and writing for the web. “Nearly one-fourth of the people on Earth speak English well enough to perform everyday tasks and share the ideas that occur in normal conversation,” Weiss writes. “But most of that group, more than a billion people, speak English as their second language, not their first.” Weiss’ goal in writing the style guide was to help writers reduce the burden on non-native English speakers without condescension or “writing down.” He also wanted to make translation of documents go more smoothly.  [The Global English Style Guide: Writing Clear, Translatable Documentation for a Global Market](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=the+global+english+style+guide&hvadid=580750752479&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9018947&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=11832255388374298463&hvtargid=kwd-8721552731&hydadcr=22591_13493220&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_8wz8v33l30_e)by John R. Kohl is recommended by AMWA members who work as translators and writers in Japan. It includes examples of sentences that are difficult for non-native English speakers to comprehend along with guidelines and examples of revisions. ## Basic English Grammar and Usage Medical communicators use words as tools and grammar to structure words into coherent sentences, logical paragraphs, and cohesive documents. No matter where the audience resides or works, a mastery of [basic grammar and usage](https://info.amwa.org/medical-communication-essential-skills-for-success?__hstc=45788219.d6cb54be718eabe9a95c75216161efe3.1696883909450.1696883909450.1696883909450.1&__hssc=45788219.1.1696883909450&__hsfp=1366844671#basic_grammar_and_usage)is essential. For medical communicators, that means understanding the parts of speech, sentences and sentence elements, basic grammar rules, and usage. ## Plain Language The [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)](https://www.cdc.gov/health-literacy/php/develop-materials/plain-language.html) has a number of excellent resources available for complying with the [Plain Language Act of 2010,](https://www.plainlanguage.gov/) which mandates that federal agencies use plain language to communicate with the public. ## Building Bridges More than ever before, medical communicators are creating materials that are used around the globe, making it imperative that we continue to investigate ways to improve access and reduce barriers. A recent edition of the [AMWA Journal](https://www.amwajournal.org/index.php/amwa/issue/view/17), explores this very topic, with articles on medical translation, communication of pharma-sponsored research, and results from an evaluation of several translation tools. “In this special edition of the AMWA Journal, we explore some of these issues and consider ways that medical communicators are improving access to scientific data and bridging the gaps between stakeholders around the world,” writes guest editor Elizabeth Kukielka, PharmD, MWC, CMPP.    ## One World As the fields of medicine and biotechnology become ever more global and interconnected, medical writers who build their skill sets to include writing for a global audience will have a chance to advance in their careers and in their scope of work. [![Medical\_Writing\_Professionals\_Guide\_to\_Advancing\_Your\_Career\_Download](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/5184792/7a73eec4-8c13-4d88-b0bd-fecf435545f4.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/5184792/7a73eec4-8c13-4d88-b0bd-fecf435545f4) Categories: [Health communication](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/health-communication), [Core knowledge and skills](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/core-knowledge-and-skills) October 17, 2023 at 4:25 PM #### [American Medical Writers Association](https://blog.amwa.org/author/american-medical-writers-association) ![American Medical Writers Association](https://blog.amwa.org/hs-fs/hubfs/AMWA%202019/Resources-icon.png?width=100&height=100&name=Resources-icon.png) AMWA is the leading resource for medical communicators. The AMWA Blog is developed in partnership with community members who work every day to create clear communications that lead to better health and well-being. This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached. - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. #### *[View all posts \>](https://blog.amwa.org/)* ### Categories - [Core knowledge and skills (48)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/core-knowledge-and-skills) - [Career development (46)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/career-development) - [Freelancing (31)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/freelancing) - [Health communication (22)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/health-communication) - [Regulatory writing (17)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/regulatory-writing) - [Soft Skills (16)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/soft-skills) - [Writing and editing mechanics (16)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/writing-and-editing-mechanics) - [Scientific publications (14)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/scientific-publications) - [Getting Started (13)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/getting-started) - [Education for professionals (8)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/education-for-professionals) - [Management & Leadership (8)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/management-leadership) - [Ethics (4)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/ethics) - [Grantsmanship (3)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/grantsmanship) - [News (3)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/news) - [Promotional writing (2)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/promotional-writing) - [Sales Training (1)](https://blog.amwa.org/tag/sales-training) See all ## CONTACT US American Medical Writers Association 9841 Washingtonian Blvd, Suite 500-26 Gaithersburg, MD 20878 phone: 240. 238. 0940 fax: 301. 294. 9006 [amwa@amwa.org](mailto:amwa@amwa.org) [About Us](https://www.amwa.org/page/About_Us) [Contact AMWA Staff](https://www.amwa.org/page/Contact) © 2024 AMWA /[Policies](https://www.amwa.org/page/website_policies) ## QUICK LINKS - [AMWA Journal](https://www.amwa.org/page/Journal) - [AMWA Online Learning](https://www.amwa.org/page/Online_Learning) - [Certification](https://www.amwa.org/page/MWC) - [Engage Online Community](http://engage.amwa.org/home) - [Essential Skills](https://www.amwa.org/page/essential_skills) - [Medical Writing & Communication Conference](https://www.amwa.org/page/Conference) - [Online Store](https://www.amwa.org/store/default.aspx?) ## CONNECT WITH US - [Join AMWA](https://www.amwa.org/membership) - [Support AMWA](https://www.amwa.org/donations/) - [Advertise with AMWA](https://www.amwa.org/page/Media) ## Follow Us *[Sign In](https://www.amwa.org/login.aspx)* Membership Management Software Powered by [YourMembership](https://www.yourmembership.com/) :: [Legal](https://www.amwa.org/ams/legal-privacy.htm) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "American Medical Writers Association", "url" : "https://blog.amwa.org/author/american-medical-writers-association" }, "dateModified" : "2026-06-18T14:06:54.818Z", "datePublished" : "2023-10-17T20:25:03.000Z", "headline" : "Resources for Writing for a Global Audience", "image" : [ "https://blog.amwa.org/hubfs/Blog/resources-for-writing-for-a-global-audience.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.amwa.org/resources-for-writing-for-a-global-audience", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.amwa.org/hubfs/AMWA-LOGO-PMS662.gif" }, "name" : "American Medical Writers Association" } } ```