jargony

Jargony is an adjective used to describe language that relies heavily on specialized terminology, acronyms, and buzzwords, often to the detriment of readability for non-experts. It can describe both spoken and written communication that prioritizes field-specific precision over clarity. The word builds on jargon, the body of terms particular to a discipline, with -y forming an adjectival ending.

While jargony language can aid experts by conveying precise concepts efficiently, it risks excluding readers and listeners who lack background knowledge. It is commonly found in science, engineering, finance, law, and bureaucratic communications, but can appear in corporate reports, policy documents, and academic prose. Typical features include abundant acronyms, nominalizations, abstract nouns, hedging phrases, and a preference for passive constructions and routine formulas rather than concrete description.

Critics characterize jargony writing as opaque and elitist. Proponents argue that it can reduce ambiguity among specialists and speed up dissemination within a field. Balancing precision with accessibility often involves defining terms, providing glossaries, using plain language alternatives, and offering context or examples for key concepts.

Jargony can be intentional in professional contexts, or an unintended consequence of a culture that valorizes jargon. See also jargon, buzzword, lingo, technical writing, bureaucraticese, and legalese.