Words carry different meanings which can change the way jurors view the story being described and its persuasiveness. The psychological distance generated by the words can also change impressions of the story and the witness. This psychological distance does not necessarily reflect relationships such as friendships, but rather the comfort level of the speaker with the object in question. Several aspects of the pattern of speech used by witnesses are important. Disruptions in the normal pattern of speech reduce the witnesses' effectiveness.
Jurors view disruptions as a sign of possible deception.
Second, rising intonation at the end of the answer or sentence can reveal uncertainty on the part of the witness. Third, a moderate to slightly fast delivery style tends to promote persuasion. Finally, irrelevant speech is a red flag of problem areas in the testimony. You should be alert to those times when a question calls for a short answer, but the witness responds with a long answer containing irrelevant information. Such answers reveal opportunities for addressing and resolving problem areas where the witness is uncomfortable.