Here's a breakdown:
* Dialect: A variety of a language used by a particular group of people, distinguished by its vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Dialects are typically geographically based or related to a specific social group.
* Jargon: Specialized vocabulary used by people in a particular profession, trade, or group. Jargon is often used for efficiency and clarity within that group, but can be confusing or inaccessible to outsiders.
Key Differences:
* Scope: Dialects encompass a wider range of language features, including vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, while jargon primarily focuses on specialized vocabulary.
* Origin: Dialects develop over time through geographic isolation, social interaction, and linguistic evolution. Jargon arises from the specific needs and practices of particular professions or groups.
* Purpose: Dialects primarily serve as a means of communication within a specific community. Jargon aims to facilitate efficient communication within a particular field or group.
Example:
* Dialect: A Southern American dialect might use words like "y'all" and "fixin' to" and have a distinct pronunciation.
* Jargon: A medical jargon might use terms like "angiogram" and "cardiac arrest" that are not commonly used in everyday language.
While jargon can be considered a form of language variation, it is not a dialect. It's a specialized vocabulary that is used within a specific context.