Understanding Colloquial Expressions in Mechanics’ Jargon: Case Study of Colloquial English and Jordanian Mechanics Jargons

Abstract

Jargon is the language of specialized terms used by a group or profession. It is common shorthand among experts or technicians and used sensibly can be a quick and efficient way of communicating. Most jargon consists of unfamiliar terms, abstract words, non-existent words, acronyms and abbreviations, with an occasional euphemism thrown in for good measure. Every profession, trade and organization has its own specialized terms. This study aims at understanding the colloquial mechanics’ jargon in both English and Jordanian cultures in order to figure out why jargon and more specifically colloquial jargon is a strange creature. The researcher would like to focus on metaphor’s role in creating this jargon as Lakoff and Johnson (1980) reveal that metaphors are part of our everyday speech. In fact, we all complain about jargon, yet everyone writes it and no one ever admits using it. The reason? Jargon or even colloquial jargon can be the worst form of communication—and the best. The terms and the colloquial jargon and their translations into English and Arabic used in this research have been extracted from different glossaries and specialized car websites.