Why do some of you use make-a-layman-scratch-head kinda words?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of complex vocabulary in everyday conversations, particularly in interactions with individuals in casual settings, such as store clerks. Participants explore the appropriateness and implications of using specialized or "fancy" words outside of academic or technical contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express concern that using complex vocabulary may alienate individuals who are not familiar with such terms, particularly in casual settings.
  • Others argue that the choice of words is influenced by the social context and relationship with the listener, suggesting that clarity can sometimes be achieved with more precise terminology.
  • A participant mentions avoiding complex vocabulary when discussing technical subjects like quantum field theory with non-experts.
  • Examples of "fancy" words are requested, with some participants humorously suggesting terms like "sublimation" and "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious."
  • There is a discussion about the balance between using a broader vocabulary and ensuring comprehension by the listener, with some advocating for simplification when necessary.
  • One participant shares an anecdote about using a technical term ("IEC power cord") and having to simplify their explanation to ensure understanding.
  • Another participant challenges the notion that using complex vocabulary is inherently superior, suggesting that it can lead to misunderstandings.
  • Some participants highlight the potential for miscommunication when specialized terms are used without consideration of the listener's background.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit a range of opinions on the appropriateness of using complex vocabulary in casual conversations. There is no clear consensus, as some advocate for maintaining a higher level of vocabulary while others emphasize the importance of accessibility and understanding.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reference specific examples and personal experiences to illustrate their points, but the discussion remains largely anecdotal and subjective, with no formal definitions or standards established for what constitutes "fancy" vocabulary.

  • #31
Pffft. What a silly subject to troll about.
 
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  • #32
Can one discuss interacting galaxies without using phrases like "peculiar motion", for instance? It's a very simple concept, but not one that would come up when talking to the clerk at the convenience store when waiting for your change. Not big words, not hard to parse, but the phrase is used in a scientifically rigorous way in astrophysics.
 
  • #33
lisab said:
Maybe we should talk down to people, then?

Would it be too much trouble? :shy:
 
  • #34
Evo said:
Guess again, starts with a "t", not as intelligent as an orc.

If you refer to a troll, I disagree. Tolkien used the terms "orc" and "goblin" almost interchangeably, except that goblins were smaller in stature than orcs. They were of the same species, whereas trolls were another brand of critter.
 
  • #35
Danger said:
If you refer to a troll, I disagree. Tolkien used the terms "orc" and "goblin" almost interchangeably, except that goblins were smaller in stature than orcs. They were of the same species, whereas trolls were another brand of critter.

Evo was referring to a troblin, a hybrid breeding between a male troll and a female goblin. These are far more rare than the groll, a hybrid between a male goblin and a female troll because of the propensity for the male troll to maim the female goblin in the mating process
 
  • #36
Lacy33 said:
Would it be too much trouble? :shy:

Lol :smile:
 
  • #37
Office_Shredder said:
Evo was referring to a troblin, a hybrid breeding between a male troll and a female goblin. These are far more rare than the groll, a hybrid between a male goblin and a female troll because of the propensity for the male troll to maim the female goblin in the mating process

Isn't that like saying that a quarter-horse is more closely related to a mule than it is to a Clydesdale?
 
  • #38
Danger said:
Isn't that like saying that a quarter-horse is more closely related to a mule than it is to a Clydesdale?
WHOOSH.

Danger, Danger, Danger. :biggrin:

How can troll posts be recognised?

Missing The Point - Trolls rarely answer a direct question - they cannot, if asked to justify their twaddle - so they develop a fine line in missing the point.

http://www.flayme.com/troll/
 
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  • #39
Evo said:
Guess again, starts with a "t", not as intelligent as an orc.
Troll sat alone on his seat of stone
And munched and mumbled a bare old bone.
For many a year he had gnawed it near,
For meat was hard to come by.
Done by! Gum by!
In a cave in the hills he dwelt alone
And meat was hard to come by.​


But I digress ... thread locked.
 
Last edited:

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