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Buzzword




Buzzwords are typically intended to create the impression of knowledge for a wide audience. They tend to be non-controversial and universal.

Buzzwords differ from Jargon in that they have the function of impressing or of obscuring meaning, while jargon (ideally) has a well-defined technical meaning, if only to specialists. However, the hype surrounding new technologies often turns technical terms into buzzwords (see Buzzword Compliant ).

A buzzword may or may not appear in a Dictionary , and if it does, its meaning as a buzzword may not match the conventional definition.


REASONS FOR USING BUZZWORDS


A generous view allows that buzzwords have the same function as Jargon in scientific disciplines: newly-minted terms to describe new concepts, without the danger of over-simplification and confusion that can arise from using words and phrases with previously established, commonplace meanings.

Buzzwords can also function to control thought by being intentionally vague. In Management , stating organizational goals by using words with unclear meanings prevents anybody from questioning the directions and intentions of these decisions, especially if many such words are used. (See also Newspeak , Machiavelli .)

A more charitable interpretation might claim that the intentionally vague phrase may boost individual thinking and Creativity by deliberately raising questions.


EXAMPLES

Here are a few examples of common buzzwords:


For a more complete list, see List Of Buzzwords .


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