NOT Words

The more we hear words being used around us; the more likely it is that we will think they actually are words. Alas, this is not always true. Check for any of these "NOT words" in your vocabulary.

Conversate is NOT a word.
The verb is converse, so we converse with a colleague.
Conversation is the noun, so we have a conversation with a colleague.
We do not conversate with a colleague.

Irregardless is NOT a word.
Regardless means without regard. The prefix "ir" means not. So, use of "irregardless" creates a double negative. Not without regard actually means regarding.

Incent is NOT a word.
Incentive is a noun meaning something designed to incite to action. So we do not incent our sales force; we provide incentives to increase our sales force's productivity.

This next one has slithered its way into the language so insidiously that it can be found in many dictionaries. Just because it's in the dictionary doesn't mean it's correct.

Orientate is NOT a word.
Orient is the verb meaning to set in a definite position or acquaint with an existing situation.
In a forest, Ben uses a compass to orient himself.
Orientation is the noun.
We do not orientate new employees; we orient new employees, or new employees attend orientation to become acquainted with the company.

Remember that your language is part of your brand; how well are you representing your brand?