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Jargon is specialized language used with people within your field, not appropriate for casual conversation with friends or family. In academic writing, jargon may appear in professional-grade papers that are peer-reviewed or edited by scholars. If you must use a jargon term and you can’t explain it in plain language, provide a definition.
Examples of jargon-related concepts mentioned: words like facilitate, double speaking, and euphemisms; these illustrate specialized or loaded terms that may require clarification for a broader audience.
Principle: Use plain language when possible; reserve jargon for when it truly adds precision in a context where the audience is expected to understand it.
When writing analyses, arguments, or research papers, prioritize concise plain language to convey ideas clearly without unnecessary obfuscation.
In creative writing, you have more freedom to experiment with language, voice, and style; academic or analytical writing should stay closer to clarity and conciseness.
If you must introduce a term unfamiliar to the reader, define it immediately or in a glossary to avoid confusion.

Pretentious language refers to puffing up language with flashy, high-register words to sound smarter, often called the "$10 SAT words".
You are allowed to use a thesaurus and expand your vocabulary, but avoid using terms solely to impress; ensure they contribute to clarity or nuance.
The slide contrasts two forms:
- Top: heavy, pretentious language.
- Bottom: concise, plain language.
Example framing: a phrase like economic realities can be replaced with a plainer, clearer expression without sacrificing meaning. The goal is clarity and not ornamentation.
Guideline: For analyses, arguments, and research writing, lean toward concise, plain language rather than ornate phrasing.

Plain language does not mean oversimplification; it means being precise, direct, and easily understood.
The aim is to avoid overly euphemistic or ambiguous terms that might confuse readers.
Context matters: in some fields or topics, specific terms are necessary; when used, define them.
Balance: use precise terms when appropriate, but favor accessibility and reader comprehension in typical analytic or research writing.

Euphemisms are phrases intended to be polite or less harsh, but they can obscure meaning and mislead readers if overused.
Common euphemisms:
- "Adult entertainment" for pornography
- "Pre-owned" for used cars; other softer terms like "vintage" or "gently used" (often used in thrifting or resale contexts)
- "Pass away" for someone dying
Not all phrases that refer to death are euphemisms; some are slang and are not typically appropriate in formal writing (e.g., "kick the bucket" or "croaked"). These are informal and can be jarring in academic text.
Important distinction: euphemisms should be avoided in academic writing to maintain clarity and precision, unless the topic specifically requires handling sensitive language.
Why avoid: euphemisms can conceal reality or bias the reader’s interpretation by softening or redirecting meaning.
Guidance: use direct, specific terms unless the topic demands a softer or more culturally sensitive framing.

Slang is informal language that varies by group, profession, hobby, age, and pop culture.
Slang changes rapidly, especially with technology (texting, DMs, social media). Some terms persist (e.g., cool, awesome) as generally understood approvals.
Older slang (e.g., groovy, neato) may feel dated and less universal.
Regional slang matters: words can have different meanings by region or culture, so be mindful of audience.
Examples discussed:
- wicked: a strong positive in New England (e.g., Massachusetts) meaning very good.
- Regional misunderstandings: words like hoot or grits can have different connotations depending on where you are and who you’re talking to.
- The Boston example illustrated how easily a term can confuse someone from another region, underscoring the need to choose audience-appropriate language.
Practical tip: when writing for a broad or unfamiliar audience, favor widely understood terms and explain any regional slang you must include.

The slide indicates a discussion of offensive language; in academic and professional writing, be mindful of terms that could alienate or offend readers.
Practical stance: avoid offensive language unless it is essential to the topic or analysis, and even then, address it thoughtfully and with sensitivity.

Emphasis on writing appropriate professional emails.
Guidelines implied:
- Be detailed and informative.
- Be concise and to the point.
- Align tone and content with professional expectations.
- Clearly indicate what you need, by when, and any relevant context.
The material stresses that emails can make a significant difference in professional interactions; craft messages that are clear, respectful, and purposeful.

The instructor notes that the remaining slides (including topics like offensive language and email etiquette) should be completed by students on their own.
The content in the modules is presented as review and foundational for understanding.
The session emphasizes reviewing and internalizing these concepts to prepare for future assignments and real-world communication tasks.

Key connections:
- Audience awareness: tailor language to who is reading; avoid unnecessary jargon for general audiences.
- Clarity and precision: prefer plain language where possible, especially in analyses and arguments.
- Ethical communication: be mindful of euphemisms and potentially offensive terms that could mislead or harm readers.
- Real-world relevance: professional writing (emails, reports) hinges on clear, concise, and respectful language; regional awareness matters in global or diverse audiences.

Jargon and definitions: use specialized terms when appropriate; define terms that may be unfamiliar.
Pretentious language vs. plain language: favor clarity over ornamentation.
Euphemisms: avoid unless necessary to the topic; can obscure truth.
Slang and regionalism: be mindful of audience; explain or avoid if it risks misinterpretation.
Professional emails: detailed yet concise; set expectations for response and next steps.
Homework/module focus: reinforcement of these principles through practice and revision.

In academic writing, aim for precise, concise, and audience-appropriate language. Use jargon sparingly and always define terms you introduce. Avoid euphemisms and slang that could confuse readers unless the task specifically requires them. Maintain professional communication in emails and be mindful of regional language differences when addressing diverse audiences. The modules will reinforce these habits through practice and review.