Why Do We Still Face Criticism for Advanced Vocabulary and Grammars?

There are instances where individuals face criticism or even discrimination for using advanced vocabulary and grammars. This article explores the reasons behind such incidents and shares personal experiences that highlight the persistent issue of language bias.

Personal Experience in Women’s Studies

As a teacher of women’s studies, I encountered a situation where my students complained about the use of complex language in my lectures. They insisted that the language should be simplified to be easily understood by everyone. Yet, when I questioned them, they acknowledged that it was acceptable for professionals in other fields to use specialized vocabularies. However, they felt that it was disproportionately difficult for the students in women’s studies. One student even said, 'It makes understanding women harder than it has to be.'

This experience was striking because I have always been passionate about language, appreciating its nuances and complexities. The discrimination felt frustrating, especially as my love for language had started since my school days.

Challenges of Advanced Vocabulary

While I have not faced direct criticism for my language abilities, there have been instances where my choice of words has been challenged.

Art Therapy Professor's Feedback

One of the notable times was during a graduate paper write-up in the 1980s. A professor in the field of art therapy commented that my language was 'stilted,' implying an overuse of complex language that made the writing unnecessarily formal. I found this feedback particularly disheartening, especially as it came from someone who was teaching and promoting the use of good writing skills.

Since then, I have learned to balance my use of advanced vocabulary with the need for clarity and ease of communication. In my presentations and writings, I strive to clarify complex terms without losing the depth and precision of language. The goal is to ensure that the message is conveyed effectively and is accessible to a broad audience.

Striving for Clarity Without Losing Precision

It is crucial to find a balance between using advanced vocabulary and ensuring that the language is clear and understandable. Advanced vocabulary can enrich and enhance academic discourse, but it should not come at the expense of clarity. When editing my writings and presentations, I focus on making the language flow smoothly and avoid jargon that might confuse the audience.

For instance, in academic writing, terms and theories from specific fields need to be used to convey precise meanings. However, overly complex sentence structures and specialized terminologies can sometimes deter readers, making the content less accessible. Therefore, it is essential to consider the audience and the context when using advanced language.

Conclusion

The issue of language discrimination persists, and it is important to address it to create a more inclusive academic and professional environment. By balancing the use of advanced vocabulary with clarity and ease of communication, we can ensure that our writing and presentations are both precise and accessible.

If you are facing similar challenges, it is important to advocate for the importance of language. Share your experiences and educate others about the value of using advanced vocabulary in the right context.