What is the Difference Between Jargon and Slang?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between jargon and slang lies in their usage, formality, and context. Here are the key differences:
- Usage: Jargon is a specific type of language used by people engaged in a particular profession or activity, while slang consists of informal words and phrases that are not specific to a particular group or activity.
- Formality: Jargon is not informal and can be used in a professional context, while slang is informal and cannot be used in a professional context.
- Context: Jargon can be used in both written and spoken context, whereas slang is only used in spoken language.
In summary, jargon is more technical terminology used by people in specific fields, while slang is more informal terminology used socially. Jargon is appropriate for professional settings, whereas slang is not.
Comparative Table: Jargon vs Slang
Here is a table highlighting the differences between jargon and slang:
| Feature | Jargon | Slang |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Jargon refers to the specialized language used by specific professions or groups of people with shared interests. Slang refers to informal words, phrases, and expressions used by a particular group of people, often within a specific region or country. | |
| Purpose | Jargon is used to optimize conversations by using terms that assume technical knowledge, allowing professionals to communicate more efficiently. Slang is used to create a sense of belonging among a particular group of people, often excluding others and making the users feel distinctively unique. | |
| Examples | In the wine industry, jargon terms include "legs," "wet dog," and "funky," which have specific meanings for wine professionals. Examples of slang include "bromance" (a special relationship between two straight men) and "ginormous" (a combination of "gigantic" and "enormous"). | |
| Spread | Jargon is typically confined to specific professional or interest groups, while slang can spread quickly and widely, often across different regions or countries. | |
| Regional Variations | Jargon tends to be confined to specific professional or interest groups, while slang can be regional, in which case it is called "colloquial". |
Read more:
- Idiom vs Slang
- Slang vs Dialect
- Slang vs Colloquial
- Slang vs Accent
- Language vs Dialect
- Vernacular vs Colloquial
- Language vs Linguistics
- Language vs Dialect in Sociolinguistics
- Idioms vs Colloquialisms
- Dictionary vs Glossary
- Sociolinguistics vs Sociology of Language
- Syntax vs Diction
- Speech vs Language
- Speak vs Talk
- Tagline vs Slogan
- Idioms vs Phrases
- Grammar vs Vocabulary
- Dialect vs Accent
- Linguistics vs Literature