Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives. From smartphones to laptops, we rely on technology to stay connected, informed, and entertained. However, not everyone is familiar with the technical jargon that comes with it. This article aims to clarify the difference between technical and nontechnical terms, and why it matters.
Technical and nontechnical are not mutually exclusive. Both terms are used to describe a wide range of subjects, from computer programming to cooking. Technical refers to specialized knowledge or skills required to perform a specific task, while nontechnical refers to general knowledge or skills that do not require specialized training.
For instance, a software engineer requires technical skills to develop software programs, whereas a writer requires nontechnical skills to create compelling content. Technical skills are often acquired through formal education or on-the-job training, whereas nontechnical skills are usually acquired through life experiences or self-learning.
Understanding the difference between technical and nontechnical terms is essential for effective communication. Technical terms can be confusing and intimidating for those who are not familiar with them, while nontechnical terms may not convey the necessary information accurately. By using the appropriate terms, we can ensure that our message is clear and concise.
Define Technical
Technical refers to anything related to technology or the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes. It involves the use of specialized skills, knowledge, and tools to design, develop, and maintain complex systems, products, or processes. Technical fields include engineering, computer science, information technology, and other related disciplines.
Technical professionals are typically trained in specific areas of expertise and possess in-depth knowledge of the subject matter. They use technical language and jargon that may be difficult for non-technical individuals to understand.
Examples of technical skills include programming, data analysis, network administration, software development, and hardware design.
Define Nontechnical
Nontechnical refers to anything that is not related to technology or scientific knowledge. It involves the use of general knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform tasks that do not require specialized technical expertise. Nontechnical fields include business, arts, humanities, and social sciences.
Nontechnical professionals typically have a broad range of skills and knowledge that can be applied to various industries and job functions. They use language that is easily understandable by non-technical individuals.
Examples of nontechnical skills include communication, leadership, problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
Using the right words in a sentence can make all the difference in conveying your message effectively. In this section, we will discuss how to use the words “technical” and “nontechnical” in a sentence.
How To Use “Technical” In A Sentence
The word “technical” is often used to describe something that is related to technology or requires specialized knowledge or skills. Here are some examples of how to use “technical” in a sentence:
- As a software engineer, I have to deal with a lot of technical jargon on a daily basis.
- The technical specifications for this project are quite complex and require a lot of attention to detail.
- She has a technical background in electrical engineering, which makes her well-suited for this job.
When using “technical” in a sentence, it is important to make sure that the context is clear and that the word is being used correctly. Avoid using “technical” as a synonym for “difficult” or “complicated” unless it is specifically related to a technical subject.
How To Use “Nontechnical” In A Sentence
The word “nontechnical” is often used to describe something that is not related to technology or does not require specialized knowledge or skills. Here are some examples of how to use “nontechnical” in a sentence:
- She is a great communicator and is able to explain complex technical concepts in nontechnical terms.
- This job requires both technical and nontechnical skills, such as project management and communication.
- The company is looking for someone with a nontechnical background who can bring a fresh perspective to the team.
When using “nontechnical” in a sentence, it is important to make sure that the context is clear and that the word is being used correctly. Avoid using “nontechnical” as a synonym for “easy” or “simple” unless it is specifically related to a nontechnical subject.
More Examples Of Technical & Nontechnical Used In Sentences
In order to better understand the difference between technical and nontechnical language, it can be helpful to see examples of each in use. Below are some examples of sentences that use technical language, as well as some that use nontechnical language.
Examples Of Using Technical In A Sentence
- The algorithm uses a binary search to optimize results.
- The software requires at least 8GB of RAM to run smoothly.
- The code is written in Python and utilizes object-oriented programming principles.
- The network architecture is based on a client-server model.
- The database schema is designed to minimize redundancy.
- The system utilizes a RAID 5 array for data redundancy.
- The API returns data in JSON format.
- The encryption algorithm uses AES-256 with CBC mode.
- The firmware update resolves a buffer overflow vulnerability.
- The server logs indicate a high rate of 404 errors.
Examples Of Using Nontechnical In A Sentence
- The movie was really good, I loved the plot and the characters.
- The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and great service.
- The book was a page-turner, I couldn’t put it down.
- The hiking trail had breathtaking views of the mountains.
- The museum exhibit was fascinating, I learned so much.
- The concert was amazing, the band played all of my favorite songs.
- The beach was beautiful, the water was crystal clear.
- The painting was stunning, the colors were so vibrant.
- The play was hilarious, I laughed the whole time.
- The park was peaceful, I enjoyed the quiet and the fresh air.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to technical and nontechnical terms, people often use them interchangeably, which can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
1. Using Technical Jargon With Non-technical Audiences
One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming that everyone understands technical jargon. Technical terms are often specific to a particular field or industry, and using them with non-technical audiences can cause confusion and frustration. For example, using acronyms like API or CSS may be second nature to a developer, but it may be completely foreign to someone outside of the tech industry.
To avoid this mistake, it’s important to know your audience and tailor your language accordingly. If you’re communicating with someone who is not familiar with technical terms, try to explain them in simpler terms or provide examples to help them understand.
2. Assuming That Non-technical People Can’t Understand Technical Concepts
On the flip side, some people assume that non-technical people are incapable of understanding technical concepts. This is a mistake because it can lead to oversimplification or leaving out important details. For example, a marketer may assume that their audience won’t understand the technical aspects of a new product, so they only focus on the benefits without explaining how it works.
To avoid this mistake, it’s important to give your audience the benefit of the doubt and provide them with enough information to make informed decisions. You can use analogies or metaphors to help explain technical concepts in a way that is relatable and easy to understand.
3. Using Technical Terms Incorrectly
Another common mistake is using technical terms incorrectly. This can happen when someone is not familiar with the proper usage or when they assume that a term means something different than it actually does. For example, someone may use the term “cloud computing” to refer to any type of online storage, when in fact it refers to a specific type of computing infrastructure.
To avoid this mistake, it’s important to do your research and make sure you understand the proper usage of technical terms. If you’re not sure, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.
4. Assuming That Technical Skills Are More Valuable Than Non-technical Skills
Finally, a common mistake is assuming that technical skills are more valuable than non-technical skills. This can lead to a bias against people who don’t have technical backgrounds, even if they have valuable skills and experience in other areas. For example, a hiring manager may pass over a candidate with excellent communication skills because they don’t have a technical degree.
To avoid this mistake, it’s important to recognize the value of both technical and non-technical skills. Technical skills are important for certain roles, but non-technical skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are just as important for success in any field.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can improve your communication and collaboration with both technical and non-technical colleagues.
Context Matters
Choosing between technical and nontechnical language can depend on the context in which they are used. It is important to consider the audience, purpose, and tone of the communication before deciding which type of language to use.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Here are some examples of different contexts and how the choice between technical and nontechnical language might change:
Academic Writing
- In academic writing, technical language is often preferred as it is more precise and can convey complex ideas more effectively.
- However, if the intended audience is not familiar with the technical jargon, it may be necessary to use nontechnical language to ensure understanding.
Marketing Materials
- In marketing materials, nontechnical language is often preferred as it is more accessible and can appeal to a wider audience.
- However, if the product or service being marketed is technical in nature, some technical language may be necessary to accurately convey its features and benefits.
Instruction Manuals
- In instruction manuals, a combination of technical and nontechnical language may be necessary.
- Technical language can be used to describe the specific steps or procedures, while nontechnical language can be used to provide context and explain why certain steps are necessary.
Ultimately, the choice between technical and nontechnical language depends on the specific context and the communication goals. It is important to consider the audience and their level of familiarity with the subject matter, as well as the purpose and tone of the communication.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the general rule is to use technical language when writing for a technical audience and nontechnical language when writing for a general audience, there are some exceptions to this rule.
1. Technical Language For Non-technical Audience
In some cases, it may be necessary to use technical language when writing for a non-technical audience. This is especially true when writing about a highly specialized topic that requires technical language to accurately convey information. For example, a medical journal article about a new surgical technique would require technical language to ensure that the information is accurately conveyed to medical professionals.
2. Nontechnical Language For Technical Audience
Conversely, there may be situations where a technical audience would benefit from nontechnical language. This is particularly true when writing about complex technical concepts that may be difficult for even technical professionals to understand. In these cases, using nontechnical language can help to simplify the concepts and make them more accessible. For example, a technical manual for a complex software program may use nontechnical language to explain the basic functions of the program.
3. Audience Knowledge Level
Another exception to the rule is the level of knowledge of the audience. While technical language may be appropriate for a technical audience, it may not be appropriate for a general audience with limited technical knowledge. Similarly, nontechnical language may be appropriate for a general audience, but it may not be appropriate for a technical audience with a high level of knowledge. In these cases, it is important to consider the audience’s level of knowledge and adjust the language accordingly.
4. Cultural Context
Cultural context is another factor that can impact the use of technical and nontechnical language. For example, in some cultures, the use of technical language may be seen as elitist or exclusionary, while in other cultures, it may be seen as a sign of expertise. Similarly, the use of nontechnical language may be seen as condescending or oversimplifying in some cultures, while in others, it may be seen as a sign of respect for the audience’s level of knowledge. It is important to consider the cultural context when deciding on the appropriate language to use.
5. Purpose Of The Communication
Finally, the purpose of the communication can also impact the use of technical and nontechnical language. For example, if the purpose of the communication is to educate the audience, then nontechnical language may be more appropriate. However, if the purpose is to persuade or convince the audience, then technical language may be more effective in establishing credibility and authority.
Practice Exercises
One of the best ways to improve your understanding and use of technical and nontechnical language is through practice exercises. Here are a few exercises to help you get started:
Exercise 1: Technical Vs. Nontechnical Vocabulary
Instructions: Identify whether the following words are technical or nontechnical.
| Word | Technical or Nontechnical? |
|---|---|
| Algorithm | Technical |
| Communication | Nontechnical |
| Database | Technical |
| Emotion | Nontechnical |
| Encryption | Technical |
| Language | Nontechnical |
Answer Key: Algorithm (Technical), Communication (Nontechnical), Database (Technical), Emotion (Nontechnical), Encryption (Technical), Language (Nontechnical)
Exercise 2: Technical Vs. Nontechnical Sentences
Instructions: Identify whether the following sentences are technical or nontechnical.
- The algorithm used to encrypt the data is highly secure. (Technical)
- The sunset over the ocean was breathtaking. (Nontechnical)
- The database contains information on all of our customers. (Technical)
- I feel happy when I spend time with my family. (Nontechnical)
- The programming language used to develop the software is Java. (Technical)
- I enjoy reading books in my free time. (Nontechnical)
Answer Key: 1. Technical, 2. Nontechnical, 3. Technical, 4. Nontechnical, 5. Technical, 6. Nontechnical
By practicing these exercises, you can improve your ability to distinguish between technical and nontechnical language. This will help you communicate more effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences.
Conclusion
After exploring the differences between technical and nontechnical writing, it is clear that both have their own unique styles and purposes. Technical writing is characterized by its precise terminology, objective tone, and emphasis on clarity and accuracy. On the other hand, nontechnical writing is more conversational, subjective, and focused on engaging the reader.
It is important to recognize the context in which each type of writing is appropriate. When communicating complex information or instructions, technical writing is necessary to ensure that the message is conveyed accurately and clearly. However, when trying to connect with an audience on a personal level or convey emotions and opinions, nontechnical writing is more effective.
Key Takeaways
- Technical writing is characterized by precise terminology, an objective tone, and a focus on clarity and accuracy.
- Nontechnical writing is more conversational, subjective, and focused on engaging the reader.
- Both types of writing have their own unique styles and purposes, and it is important to recognize the context in which each is appropriate.
By understanding the differences between technical and nontechnical writing, you can improve your own writing skills and tailor your message to your intended audience. Whether you are writing a technical report or a personal blog post, it is important to consider the tone, style, and purpose of your writing in order to effectively communicate your message.
Continue learning about grammar and language use to further enhance your writing skills and become a more effective communicator.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.