Linguists define register as the way a speaker uses language in different circumstances. Have you ever noticed how doctors, lawyers, and engineers use different language than the rest of us? These specialized vocabularies are part of what linguists call the occupational register, one of the five registers of language. In this article, we'll explore the meaning of occupational register and its importance in various fields. We'll also provide examples of different types of occupational register and discuss their functions in the English language. So whether you're a student or a professional, read on to learn more about the fascinating world of occupational register!
What is the meaning of occupational register?
By using the term 'occupational register', we refer to the language that is used by professionals in different work settings and occupations. This is sometimes called consultative or professional register. This kind of register also determines whether it is formal or informal. In English, occupational registers are considered to be more formal.
What are some examples of occupational register?
Some examples of occupations with specific technical terms include doctors and nurses who use medical terminology, lawyers who use legal terminology, scientists who use scientific terminology, mechanics who use automotive terminology, and engineers who use technical terminology related to their field. The occupational register involves using these technical terms to help to establish a sense of expertise and authority within the field and helps to ensure clear communication between professionals.
Language of the courts
There are certain technical terms that only those familiar with the law will understand.
"As a firm, we cannot undertake any more pro-bonos."
"Michael sent over the subpoena to the claimant."
"The jury has released the defendant on parole."
Words like pro bono (when legal work is done for free), subpoena (a written command stating that one must appear in court), claimant (the person making a claim in court), defendant (the person accused of the crime), and parole (the temporary or permanent release of a person before they finish their sentence), are often used by lawyers and judges.
These words are all legal terms, necessary for those in the profession so they can communicate with each other. An outsider may or may not understand them, and it depends on their level of knowledge.
Fig. 1 - The occupational register is used in court.
Note: If you have watched “Suits” or “Crime Scene Investigation”, you may have come across these legal terms. Despite the audience not necessarily being in the legal profession, it is necessary for the scriptwriters to include such terms, in order to maintain the authenticity of the show.
Medical language
You'll come across some medical terms during a visit to the doctor. Not having understood some of them, you may have had to ask for an explanation.
"The tumour that is now removed will be sent for biopsy to check whether it is benign or malignant."
"Cerebral edema can cause irreversible damage."
"Sleep bruxism was the cause of her headache."
The highlighted words, such as biopsy (a tissue sample for testing purposes), benign (non-cancerous), malignant (cancerous), edema (swelling caused by a build-up of fluid) and bruxism (teeth grinding), are technical terms that are commonly used by medical professionals.
Fig. 2 - The occupational register is used by medical professionals.
The function of the occupational register
The function of occupational register is to enable effective communication within a specific field or profession by utilizing technical terms and specialized vocabulary that are unique to that particular occupation. It helps individuals within the same profession to understand each other more easily and accurately, while also making it easier for those outside the profession to identify and understand specialized knowledge and skills.
The use of occupational register helps to establish credibility and authority within a particular field, and it also allows for greater efficiency and accuracy in communication within that field.
Audience
When deciding to use an occupational register, it is important to take into account the audience. It is important for professionals to know who their audience is. The audience may be listeners or readers.
For example, when doctors and lawyers speak with their colleagues, it is acceptable to use technical jargon, as those within the profession will understand what the speaker is saying. However, if a doctor/lawyer is speaking to a patient/client, it is important not to use too many technical terms as the listener may not be aware of them. It is important for the speaker to avoid technical terms as much as reasonable.
What are the characteristics of the occupational register?
An occupational register often includes technical terminology, acronyms, and abbreviations that are specific to a profession. The rules of occupational registers are similar to those of formal language but they have a different purpose. They are often either bi-directional or multi-directional, which means that there is more than one person or group involved in the conversation. Some examples include conversations between a doctor and patient, teacher and student(s), or lawyer and client.
The main purpose of using an occupational register is to get a specific message across effectively and efficiently.
Tip: Learning how to use the occupational register in a specific situation will help you come across as professional and help you get what you want from the other person.
Email from the claimant's lawyer to the defendant's lawyer - 1
“Hi, Jon
I am going to call your client to the stand at court next week if she doesn't accept our terms to settle the matter between us. Explain to your client that it is the best option for everyone involved.
Best,
Jerry ”
Email from the claimant's lawyer to the defendant's lawyer - 2
“Dear Jon,
Your client will be subpoenaed to testify in court next week. Understand that accepting our settlement offer is in the best interests of all parties involved.
Regards,
Jerry ”
It is clear that email 2 is more concise and precise. It makes use of technical legal terms (these have been highlighted). It is understood that both the writer and reader, in this case, are part of the legal profession, so their use of legal terminology is acceptable.
The importance of occupational registers
Learning how to use an occupational register will help you develop skills needed to interview someone, or even to be interviewed. Being aware of the occupational register suggests that you are aware of a particular profession, and able to demonstrate your interest in it. Occupational and formal registers complement each other in the sense that when using an occupational register, the tone tends to be formal.
Occupational Register - Key takeaways
Occupational register is the language used by professionals in their specialist fields.
Occupational register is also called consultative or professional register.
When deciding whether to use an occupational register, it is important to take into account the audience and whether or not they are from the profession.
Occupational register shares characteristics with formal register.
Using an occupational register makes it easier to communicate with those in the industry.
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