Jargon refers to the specialized language used within a particular profession, trade, or group. It consists of words and phrases that have specific meanings within that context, often different from their everyday usage. Jargon can be found in various fields, such as medicine, law, technology, and academia.

Merriam-Webster ironically gives us a jargon-y definition, summarizing the literary device as “the technical terminology or characteristics idiom of a special activity or group.” The dictionary defines another synonym of the word as an “obscure and often pretentious language marked by circumlocutions and long words.”

While jargon can facilitate efficient communication among experts in a given field, it can also create barriers for those unfamiliar with the terminology. This article explores the history of jargon and examples of its use in different contexts.

The Origins and Evolution of Jargon

The term "jargon" originated in the 14th century, derived from the Old French word "jargoun," meaning "chattering or gibberish." Initially, it referred to the unintelligible speech of birds or the language of a particular social or professional group.

Over time, the meaning of jargon shifted to encompass the specialized vocabulary used within specific fields. As various professions and industries developed, they created their own unique terminologies to describe concepts, processes, and tools specific to their areas of expertise.

In the 20th century, linguists began restricting the use of jargon as a specialized language use, making it more prevalent as fields like science, technology, and medicine experienced rapid advancements. It came over two centuries after the philosopher Etienne Bonnot de Condillac seeded the idea that “every science requires a special language because every science has its own ideas.”

The increasing complexity of these disciplines necessitated the development of precise language to communicate ideas effectively among professionals.

Examples of Jargon in Various Fields

Jargon can be found in almost every profession or industry. Here are a few examples:

Medical Jargon

Doctors and other healthcare professionals use terms like "hypertension" (high blood pressure), "tachycardia" (rapid heart rate), and "neoplasm" (abnormal growth of tissue, often referred to as a tumor). Although these terms would be classified as jargon, they’re technical terminology that is necessary to do the job.

Legal Jargon

Lawyers and legal professionals use phrases like "habeas corpus" (a legal action requiring a person to be brought before a court), "prima facie" (evidence that is sufficient to establish a fact or case unless disproved), and "tort" (a wrongful act leading to civil legal liability).

Technology Jargon

In the tech industry, terms like "API" (Application Programming Interface), "cloud computing" (storing and accessing data and programs over the internet), and "UI/UX" (User Interface/User Experience) are commonly used.

Business Jargon

The business world has its own set of jargon, including terms like "ROI" (Return on Investment), "B2B" (Business-to-Business), and "value proposition" (a statement describing the benefits a company offers to its customers).

Military Jargon

The military also uses specialized language to keep their communication efficient and occasionally confidential. Phrases like “Oscar Mike” (on the move), “RTB” (return to base), and “Zero Dark Thirty” (very early morning) help personnel convey the information quickly.

Academic Jargon

In academia, disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and sociology have their own specialized vocabularies. Terms like "epistemology" (the study of knowledge), "cognitive dissonance" (mental discomfort experienced when holding contradictory beliefs or values), and "social stratification" (the hierarchical arrangement of individuals or groups within a society) are commonly used.

Slang Jargon

Slang would also be considered jargon. In LGBTQ+ culture, slang terms like tea, shade and trade create a sense of belonging within the community, but might as well be Greek to everyone else.

Risks of Jargon and Overly Technical Language

Jargon serves several purposes within specialized fields. It allows for precise communication among experts, enabling them to convey complex ideas and concepts efficiently. Jargon can also help establish a sense of belonging and identity within a particular group or profession.

However, jargon can also create barriers for those outside the field. Confused, unintelligible language breaks a cardinal rule of good editing, which is to make your message clear. When experts use jargon in communication with laypeople, it can lead to confusion, misunderstandings, and alienation. It’s essential for professionals to be mindful of their audiences and adapt their language accordingly.

Moreover, the overuse of jargon can sometimes be a way to obscure meaning or make simple ideas appear more complex than they are. In some cases, it may also be used as a form of gatekeeping, excluding those who are not "in the know."

Conclusion

Jargon is a double-edged sword: It facilitates efficient communication within specialized fields, but also can create barriers for those unfamiliar with the terminology. A technical jargon of any type can confuse even an otherwise well-informed person.

By understanding the definition, history, and examples of jargon, we can navigate the language of various professions more effectively. When in doubt, it is always best to err on the side of clarity and simplicity, ensuring that our message is accessible to all. ⬥