Nomenclature

Goals

1. Describe nomenclature.
2. Skillfully learn and apply nomenclature.

Nomenclature (What?)

Nomenclature is the system for naming things in a discipline or field of study. The set of things that make up a nomenclature are {words and terms, symbols, classification schemes, rules and guidelines for naming things, syntax, and so on}

Why?

Embracing and using nomenclature provides many rewards. Far better learning. Effective communication with others. Brevity, conciseness, saves time. Enhanced understanding. More credibility. Better collaboration.

How?

Start using the nomenclature from day one of learning. Write down definitions in your own words. Listen to experts so you know how to pronounce and apply the nomenclature. Continually improve your understanding and usage of the nomenclature. Hold yourself accountable for being able to teach and explain the nomenclature.

Always use the nomenclature when you are learning or applying information because this helps rewire your brain so that you grok this nomenclature.

We have to invest time to learn nomenclature. However, the time savings that this investment provides are enormous. Given the other rewards we get—better understanding, better collaboration, better credibility, and so on—using nomenclature is a no-brainer.

The Nomenclature Rule: Always learn and apply the nomenclature of a discipline because the rewards are so great that this skill can be considered as a super power. Note: I came up with this rule based on my own experiences.

Examples of Nomenclature

Law

The nomenclature of law includes many terms that used to understand legal concepts and proceedings.

Examples: Larceny, estoppel, defamation, plaintiff, defendant, judge, attorney, jury, trial, verdict, appeal, jurisdiction, statute, constitution, due process, evidence, burden of proof, precedent, civil law, criminal law, torts, contract, liability, damages, negligence, crime, misdemeanor, felony, habeas corpus, Miranda rights, injunction, discovery, deposition, subpoena, cross-examination, indictment, plea bargain, warrant, probable cause, perjury, double jeopardy, settlement, alibi, res ipsa loquitur, lien, breach of contract, tortfeasor, indemnity, embezzlement.

Thermodynamics

The subject of thermodynamics, aka thermo, involves many concepts related to heat, work, energy, and power. This subject is learned by some engineers and by some scientists.

Here are some examples of the concepts in the thermo nomenclature: process, state, energy, entropy, internal energy, enthalpy, first law, adiabatic, isobaric, quality, second law, property, and so on.

Thermo also includes a set of symbols. While these symbols are not universal, there are patterns of common usage. An example of these symbols is the ideal gas law: pV = nRT where p represents pressure, V represents volume, and so on.

Anyone who learns thermo must have command of the symbols and terms used in this discipline.

More Examples

1. Chemistry: In chemistry, nomenclature is the set of rules and guidelines used to assign names to chemical compounds, elements, ions, and other chemical entities. It ensures a consistent and systematic approach to naming chemicals, aiding in their identification and communication.

2. Biology/Taxonomy: In biology, nomenclature is the system of naming and classifying organisms based on their hierarchical relationships. The binomial nomenclature, developed by Carl Linnaeus, assigns a unique scientific name to each species, consisting of a genus name and a species name.

3. Medical/Anatomy: In the medical and anatomical context, nomenclature refers to the standardized naming conventions used for anatomical structures, diseases, medical procedures, and other medical terminology. It helps facilitate clear communication and understanding within the medical field.

4. Linguistics: In linguistics, nomenclature refers to the system or rules used to classify and categorize different aspects of language, such as phonetics, phonology, syntax, morphology, and semantics. It encompasses the terminology and naming conventions specific to linguistic analysis and description.

5. Industry/Technology: In various industries and technological fields, nomenclature refers to the naming conventions and codes used to identify and classify products, components, parts, or processes. It ensures consistency and facilitates efficient communication and documentation within the industry.

6. Astronomy: In astronomy, nomenclature involves the system of naming celestial bodies, such as stars, planets, moons, and galaxies. It may include both scientific designations and common names for astronomical objects.

These are just a few examples of how “nomenclature” is commonly defined and applied in different domains. The term generally refers to the system or rules used for naming, classifying, and categorizing entities within a particular field or subject area.