What is jargon in the context of speech?

Jargon refers to the specialized language used by a particular group, often specific to a profession, field of study, or community. This type of language includes terms and phrases that may be unfamiliar or confusing to those outside the group. It allows members of the group to communicate efficiently and effectively, as it often conveys complex concepts succinctly. For example, medical professionals use medical jargon that might include terms like "hypertension" or "bypass," which would require additional explanation for someone not familiar with the medical field.

In contrast to jargon, general language used in casual conversation is more accessible to a wider audience and does not contain specialized terminology. Overly complex vocabulary used to impress can sometimes be associated with jargon but lacks the contextual specificity that true jargon possesses; it may not necessarily serve a communicative function among a specific group. Slang terms, while informal and often colloquial, are not the same as jargon as they don't exclusively cater to a specific professional or technical group.