Open a Session · Meet & Connect · Encourage Collaboration
Jargon Amnesty
Translate one acronym or initiative name your department uses as though everyone already understands it.
Time4–5 minutes
Group size4+ people
FormatTable groups
MaterialsNone
What this accomplishes
Each person offers one piece of local jargon and a plain-language translation. The table chooses the term most in need of permanent translation.
- Reduce cross-department confusion
- Normalize asking for clarification
Before you begin
Materials
- None
Preparation
- Display a visible timer
- Plan to hear no more than two table reports
What to say
“Here is the ask. You will work only with your table, the timer will stay visible, and passing is always fine.”
How to run it
- 1
Ask each person to name one acronym, initiative, or term their team uses constantly.
- 2
Give a ten-second plain-language translation.
- 3
Let the table vote for the term most in need of amnesty.
- 4
Invite two tables to share the winning term and translation.
Prompts to use
What term would confuse a capable new colleague?
What does it actually mean?
What clearer phrase could replace it today?
Adapt it to the room
Small group
Use one table and let everyone contribute; skip the room report.
Large group
Run the activity simultaneously at tables of four to six, then hear only two brief reports.
Virtual
Use breakout rooms of four to six, broadcast the prompt and timer, and collect one response in chat when rooms close.
Accessibility & inclusion
- Keep participation seated by default.
- Display and read the prompt aloud.
- Allow anyone to pass, write, or contribute through a tablemate.
Debrief, if useful
What language should we translate or avoid during this session?
Why it works—and what can go wrong
Why it works
Humor lowers the cost of admitting confusion and gives the group immediate permission to ask what unfamiliar language means.
Watch out for
- Make fun of the jargon, not the people or department using it.
- Do not turn the vote into criticism of an initiative's purpose.