Translation guide
The English word "jargon" refers to specialized terminology used within a particular group or field. In Japanese, there are several words and phrases to express this concept, depending on the nuance—whether it's technical terminology, insider slang, or obscure language.
To refer to the technical or specialized vocabulary used in a particular profession, academic discipline, or hobby.
The most common and neutral term for technical jargon or specialized terminology. Literally 'specialized terminology'.
この論文は専門用語が多くて読みにくい。
This paper is hard to read because it has a lot of jargon.
Refers to industry-specific jargon or trade terminology. Often used in business contexts.
彼の話は業界用語ばかりで、部外者には理解できない。
His talk is full of industry jargon, so outsiders can't understand it.
A more formal or academic term for technical terms, often used in scholarly contexts.
この辞書は法律の術語を集めたものです。
This dictionary is a collection of legal jargon.
To refer to informal, often exclusive language used within a specific group, such as a subculture, online community, or social circle.
Refers to secret or coded language used by a particular group, often to exclude outsiders. Can carry a nuance of slang or cant.
彼らは仲間内だけで通じる隠語を使っている。
They use jargon that only their group understands.
A direct loanword from English, often used in linguistics or when discussing the concept of jargon itself. Can sound slightly academic.
Originally referred to price tags or codes in shops, but can mean jargon or secret signs used within a trade or group. Somewhat dated.
To describe language that is unnecessarily complex, obscure, or hard to understand, often used to impress or confuse.
A simple, everyday phrase meaning 'difficult words'. Can be used to complain about jargon without specifying a field.
医者が難しい言葉ばかり使うので、何を言っているのかわからなかった。
The doctor used so much jargon that I couldn't understand what he was saying.
Literally 'incomprehensible words'. A more emotional way to describe jargon that is confusing or nonsensical to the listener.
契約書にはわけのわからない言葉が並んでいる。
The contract is full of incomprehensible jargon.
専門用語 (technical terminology) is neutral and refers to the necessary vocabulary of a field. 隠語 (secret language/cant) implies intentional exclusion or secrecy, and can have a negative nuance. Use 専門用語 for academic or professional jargon, and 隠語 for slang or coded language within a closed group.
While ジャーゴン exists as a loanword, it is not commonly used in everyday conversation. It's better to use 専門用語 or describe the situation with phrases like 難しい言葉 unless you are in a linguistic context.
In linguistics, the language used by a specific group is called jargon.
The craftsmen conversed using their own jargon.