Booher's Rules of Business Grammar - Dianna Booher 2009

Up a tree without a paddle
Miscellaneous matters

MIXED METAPHORS

Similes and metaphors engage readers by comparing things in a memorable way: “The hailstorm on our new conference center sounded like a mortar attack.” “Our sales force swarms the trade-show floor at every industry meeting, lighting at the elbow of every prospect attending.” So far, so good. With these statements, we visualize the scene. Just be careful not to mix metaphors.

If you work here, you have to learn to swim with the sharks, or you’ll be taking enemy fire before you know it. (Are they swimming or fighting a war?)

Our executives always want to run the ball themselves rather than pass it to staff. But if we’re going to develop our managers, we need to set up a firewall and then permit them to make a few mistakes during their learning process. (Are they playing football or building a security system?)

Memory tip

Rule 1 (in any sport): Keep your head in the game until the final whistle.

Rule 1 (with any comparison): Keep your metaphor in mind until you finish the thought.