TLA’s (Three Letter Acronyms) and Vernacular’s (the form of a language that a particular group of speakers use naturally) - are they really necessary?
Why are there so many TLA’s and Vernaculars that are exactly the same, but mean something completely different?
TA common example of a TLA is BBQ, which (hopefully) we all know means Barbeque.
In health and safety, HSE (Health and Safety Executive) - Whilst looking at the meanings and uses of TLA’s, I stumbled across another use of the acronym TLA. So right now, I am talking about Three-Letter Acronyms, however, I could be speaking about Three Letter Agencies, such as the CIA, FBI, NSA.
A TLA could also be Text Link Ads, True Love Always, Territorial Local Authority, and SO MANY MORE - How do we know what is what?
What’s worse is, if you work for a large business, you will be inundated with TLA’s. It’s a different language you’ll need to learn, but it’s not fun, interesting or well-known such as Italian or French. You are learning a language that absolutely no one outside of the business will understand.
Let’s look at one in regard to construction. PC – The PC is of course your personal computer, laptop or desktop but maybe not...
“Hey Jim, where’s the PC?” – Jim replies - “One minute, I’ll go and check”
Jim returns moments later with his laptop but he was supposed to locate the Principle Contractor. You may be thinking that Jim should have just confirmed which meaning of PC? However, if there was only one meaning he wouldn’t have to!
CDM in construction health and safety means Construction Design and Management Regulations but it can also mean Cash Deposit Machine, Code Data Management or Career Development Manual.
Another example is Dr. You could be a Dr of Literature, but I’m not sure I’d want you operating on me? Dr can also stand for Daily Report, Death Rate, Desk Receptionist, Data Rights. The list goes on, and on, and on!
Also, what about four-letter acronyms? Or 5, or 6, or 7…. Where does it stop?
Okay, rant over. But seriously, why are there so many acronyms which are the same, however, mean something completely different?
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