Declaration - oświadczenie

Tip 57. Declaration - oświadczenie

All three sentences relate to "oświadczenie". While all are accurate (i.e. contain no grammatical errors) ONLY ONE reads well. Which is it?

A. A person who wishes to join the group is required to submit a declaration on joining the group.

Wrong answer, try again!

B. Anyone wishing to join the group must submit a declaration to that effect.

Correct answer!

Remember that to write well in English you should "keep it short and simple".

Other comments:

'anyone' is more natural than either 'a person' or 'each person'.
'must' is briefer than 'is required to' or 'is obliged to' and when describing obligations is often sufficient.
'relevant declaration' is abstract, while 'to that effect' is specific and helps cut repetition.
'declaration on joining...' is a direct translation from Polish. In direct translation, it is abstract - 'on' means 'on the subject of' but does not indicate whether the intention is positive or negative. Alternatives: 'declaration that [sb] intends to...'; 'declaration of intention to...'

C. Each person interested in joining the group is obliged to submit a relevant declaration.

Wrong answer, try again!