What aspect of communication can hinder understanding between sender and receiver?

The use of jargon can significantly hinder understanding between the sender and receiver in communication. Jargon refers to specialized terminology or language that is specific to a particular profession, field, or group. When a communicator uses jargon that the receiver does not understand, it creates a barrier to effective communication. This can lead to confusion, misinterpretation, or a complete inability to grasp the message being conveyed.

For instance, in a fire service context, if a fire officer uses technical terms or acronyms that are not familiar to the audience—such as the public, new recruits, or members from other departments—those individuals may struggle to follow the conversation or understand the intended message. Effective communication relies on shared understanding, and jargon can alienate those who are not versed in that specific language, preventing the message from being received accurately.