bureaucratic jargon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bureaucratic jargon" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe complex or technical language that is often used in bureaucratic contexts, making it difficult for the average person to understand. Example: "The report was filled with bureaucratic jargon that left many employees confused about the new policies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Some features are discernible within the program's nebula of charts, graphs, codes and bureaucratic jargon.

The New York Times - Arts

With Campbell's ability to sell a message Lansley might have been home early for supper last night instead of halfway to Euston, still imprisoned in bureaucratic jargon.

The Guardian

Mitrokhin himself also published The KGB Lexicon (2002), which provides a fascinating insight into the KGB mindset, as well as its tradecraft and bureaucratic jargon.

The Guardian

At the same time, American movies seem, perhaps more than ever, to languish under the tyranny of story, a regime with its own bureaucratic jargon.

The New York Times

When those run dry, the experienced speaker will seek refuge in the damp, wooly depths of guanhua — the bureaucratic jargon of numbered clauses, of theories firmly upheld and banners held high.

The New Yorker

But few officials could identify many Crimean exports to the EU.In the bureaucratic jargon of Brussels, the annexation of Crimea merits only "Stage 2" sanctions: visa bans, asset freezes and political wrist-slapping.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Indeed, Van's story floats on a Sargasso sea of jargon and bureaucratic acronyms that grows ever thicker as the threats escalate from "infowar" and "cyberwar" to vintage mad-scientist "spacewar".

The New York Times - Books

They consistently use the alchemy of bureaucratic language to transform words with clear meaning into jargon.

The Guardian - Opinion

The impression that this is essentially a technical, preparatory meeting is heightened by the characteristically yawn-inducing jargon the EU is using to describe the four main questions at issue.But behind the bureaucratic language, the truth is that fundamental issues are at stake.

The Economist

Mr. Tavernier takes us into the squalid housing projects in which many of Daniel's students live and records the bureaucratic boilerplate that, in the mouths of well-meaning but self-protective functionaries and politicians, reduces young lives to jargon and statistics.

The New York Times

Awkward jargon.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing governmental or organizational inefficiency, use "bureaucratic jargon" to highlight the use of overly complex language as a contributing factor.

Common error

Avoid using "bureaucratic jargon" simply to refer to technical language. The term specifically describes language that is intentionally obfuscating or unnecessarily complex, often used to obscure meaning rather than convey it clearly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bureaucratic jargon" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. As Ludwig indicates, it describes a specific type of language characterized by complexity and obscurity, often found in official or administrative contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bureaucratic jargon" refers to complex and often intentionally obfuscating language used in bureaucratic contexts. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Its primary function is descriptive and critical, often highlighting the negative impact of overly complicated language. While generally neutral in register, its usage often implies criticism of inefficiency or lack of transparency. When clarity is paramount, simpler, more direct language is preferred. Alternatives include "officialese" or "administrative language". It appears most frequently in News & Media, Formal & Business and Encyclopedias.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

officialese

Refers specifically to the often convoluted and stilted language used by government officials.

administrative language

Highlights the formal and sometimes obscure language used in administrative settings.

government speak

Emphasizes the language style common in government communications, often perceived as evasive or unclear.

regulatory language

Focuses on the complex terminology used in regulations and legal documents.

policy wonkery

Implies a deep dive into policy details, often using specialized and inaccessible terms.

management speak

Highlights the specific vocabulary of management.

corporate speak

Refers to the formal and sometimes artificial language used in corporate communications.

legalese

Emphasizes the complex and technical language used by legal professionals.

technical terminology

Highlights the use of technical words.

insider terminology

Emphasizes that the words or terms are usually used and understood by insiders only.

FAQs

How can I identify "bureaucratic jargon" in a text?

Look for overly complex sentences, unnecessary use of acronyms, and words that seem designed to confuse rather than clarify. If the language feels deliberately opaque or circular, it's likely "bureaucratic jargon".

What's the difference between "bureaucratic jargon" and technical terminology?

"Bureaucratic jargon" is intentionally obfuscating and often unnecessary, while technical terminology is precise language specific to a field. Technical terms are essential for accurate communication within a domain, whereas "bureaucratic jargon" is designed to confuse.

How to avoid using "bureaucratic jargon" in my writing?

Prioritize clarity and conciseness. Use simple language, define any necessary technical terms, and avoid using unnecessarily complex sentence structures. Focus on conveying information directly and transparently.

What are some alternatives to using "bureaucratic jargon"?

Instead of relying on "bureaucratic jargon", consider using clearer, more straightforward language. Alternatives include "officialese", "administrative language", or simply "complex language" depending on the context.