The language of news today is the product of centuries of linguistic evolution. It is not a “natural form” of writing (Keeble, 1994). It is a particular discourse with its own rhythms, tones, words and phrases and has to be learned. One characteristic Keeble offers to the language of news is “Kiss (Keep it short and simple) and tell” which he says could be the journalist’s motto. Complex sentences overloaded with long subordinate clauses should be avoided. Short, precise sentences are best.