Appendix D: Avoid corporate jargon

Avoid vague or inflated language that sounds like business jargon. Use clear, everyday words wherever possible. Many words become empty or unclear with overuse or without context. We encourage specific, plain-language alternatives to help keep communication clear, inclusive and approachable.

Avoid using...	Instead use...
actionable	practical, usable
aim to	help, support, do, provide
circle back	follow up, get back to
cutting-edge	innovative, new, advanced
deliverables	results, tasks
drill down	examine more closely
empower	support, help
foster	support, encourage, create
going forward	from now on, in the future
leverage	use, build on, apply
maximize	improve, increase
paradigm shift	change, new approach
robust	strong, reliable
stakeholders*	people, partners, those involved
state of the art	advanced, modern, top-tier
strive	aim to, plan to, work toward
synergy	collaboration, working together
touch base	connect, check in
utilize	use
will be**	use active voice (e.g., we offer, students access, the program supports)

* The term stakeholder is sometimes viewed as exclusionary or colonial, as it can imply a claim to land or resources. Whenever possible, use more inclusive, people-first alternatives.

** Will be is not jargon, but it often signals passive voice. Replace with active phrasing whenever possible to make sentences clearer and more direct.