Jargon

Jargon is defined as “language that is used or

understood only by a select group of people.”

Examples of Groups of People Who Use Jargon:

• Medical Professionals• Education Professionals• Computer Techs• Star Trekkies

Basketball Jargon• Airball

• Boards

• Double Double/Triple Double

• Nothing But Net

• Stuffed

• Swish

• Trifecta

• Windex Man/Woman

• Break his/her ankles

• Crack-crack

Litotes

A litote is a figure of speech in which a positive is stated by negating its opposite.

University of Louisville: 70Murray State: 10

For example, what does “no small victory” mean?

Or “not a bad idea”?

Or “not

unhappy”?

Consider this statement: “Running a marathon in under two hours is no small accomplishment.”

Identify the litote.

Consider this statement: Andrea Bocelli is not a bad singer.”

Identify the litote.

Litote, which is a form of under-statement, is the opposite of hyperbole.