What does the term "hedging" refer to in writing style?

Hedging in writing refers to the practice of using qualifiers that make statements less direct or assertive. This style can be employed to convey uncertainty or to soften the impact of a claim, allowing the writer to present ideas while acknowledging that they may not be entirely definitive. For instance, using phrases like "might suggest," "could be interpreted as," or "it seems that" allows a writer to carefully navigate their arguments, particularly in academic writing, where being overly assertive can lead to criticism or pushback. Hedging can be particularly important in sensitive topics where absolute statements may not be warranted. Thus, the correct understanding of hedging involves recognizing how these qualifiers play a critical role in shaping the tone and strength of assertions in writing.