What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
colloquialism
Example
Hey, what's up? is a colloquialism for asking how someone is doing. [colloquialism: noun]
Example
She talks with a lot of colloquialisms, using slang words that are common in her hometown. [colloquialisms: plural noun]
jargon
Example
The doctor used medical jargon that I didn't understand during the appointment. [jargon: noun]
Example
In the IT industry, there is a lot of jargon that only professionals in the field would know. [jargon: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Colloquialism is more commonly used than jargon in everyday language. Colloquialism is widely understood and used by people in various contexts, while jargon is limited to specific industries or communities.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between colloquialism and jargon?
Colloquialism is associated with an informal and casual tone, suitable for everyday conversations. Jargon, on the other hand, is more formal and technical, used in professional or specialized settings.
