I think this is where a bit of interpersonal relationship development can kick in. I mean, I don't hesitate to make stylistic recommendations, especially if I can point to a strength of the authors' that I believe the suggestion would be an asset toward.

Add a dash of self-deprecating humour and a reminder that the suggestion "is purely a stylistic one and can be tossed in the rubbish bin with the rest of my rot"... and I've yet to offend or hurt any feelings.

Some betas, especially the ones willing to make stylistic suggestions, seem to think that 'being blunt' means running a rusty cheese grater along the back of the author followed by a hefty dip in a vat of lemon juice.

And, of course, that's not always needed...


... not always, at least. :wink;