On the importance of precise language use

Abstract

Imprecise wording in research articles can mislead readers to believe that the findings are more powerful than they are. We empirically investigate how common it is for scholars to include statements in their articles that fail to accurately reflect their research design. The first author coded all experimental studies that measured behaviour or behavioural intentions published in three of the leading tourism journals in 2022. Results indicate that inaccurate statements are made in nearly half (47 %) of all articles reviewed. The sections where such statements occur most frequently are the title, discussion, and abstract. As a result, the risk of misinterpreting and misquoting findings is high, as is the risk of industry adopting ineffective measures to change behaviour.