Why do people feel compelled to use compicated language when plain English will do?

Question

Is it a need to show how clever they (think they) are?

What is the point?

Have a look at this:

http://www.plainenglish.co.uk/beforeandafter.htm

This is the sort of thing I'm referring to.

Yes sorry..... complicated..... :-)

Answer 1

My dad says that if you can't dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with b**ls**t. Sorry, iI tried to clean it up a bit.

Answer 2

It is a case of dust baffles brains. I enables people with any authority to say things in such a way that the horrible things they propose or are doing seem to be acceptable. Also it gives an air of education where there is actually very little. In other words it is inconsiderate, often dishonest and in any event prevents clear communication.

For instance a mopping up operation in military terms is hand to hand fighting. A strategic retreat is a bloody defeat.

Answer 3

As much as I agree with the others, there is also the fact that complexity is subjective. Think of the differences between different varieties of English, or different contexts in which it may be necessary to use more complex terminology.

I completely agree with you on the fact that many people use complicated language to show how clever they are (and often use many expressions inappropriately!), I am also very supportive of people using a variety of words.

I personally get deep satisfaction out of consulting a thesaurus and finding synonyms to increase my vocabulary. We have so many fantastic words in the English language, it is such a pity to let them fade into oblivion. However, this is strictly reserved for personal expression and creative writing.

In the cases you are referring to, ie when information needs to be conveyed for a certain purpose, simple and concise language is necessary.

Answer 4

Different ways of expressing things carry different and often subtle differences in meaning or attitude about what's being said. People with a weak command of the language don't understand these differences, and therefore they think it's not necessary to express them. Sometimes complex language is also used simply for aesthetic reasons as well - it sounds good. In that way, your question is kind of like "why do people paint when they could just take a picture?"

Answer 5

Yes, it's because the writers want to seem like the are so smart to think of all those big words and phrases. Kinda dumb, huh?

Answer 6

things are only complicated if you don't understand it plus sometimes it is necessary to avoid confusion although some do take it to far unnecessarily possibly due to legal or government guidelines by spin doctors trying to hide mistakes for as-long as possible.

Answer 7

Before: I think it makes them feel smarter and/or more important to show off their vocabulary.

After: They like usin' big words!!! :)

Answer 8

To make them feel more intelligent and to impress everyone

Answer 9

Absolutely, eschew obfuscation, I say.

Answer 10

Did you mean complicated? =)