3.1.3 Unusual Words (Level AAA): WCAG explained. Axevoo

In plain English

If your copy uses jargon, insider terms, or idioms, some readers will not follow, not just non-native speakers, but many people with cognitive or learning differences who read words literally. This AAA rule says give them a way to get the meaning: define the term inline, link it to a definition, or keep a glossary.

The simplest fix is usually to just write more plainly. Where a specialist term is genuinely needed, explain it the first time.

Who this is for

People with cognitive and learning differences, including those who read idioms literally.
Non-native speakers of your page’s language.

How to check and fix it yourself

Read your product copy and help pages for jargon and idioms. Define the ones you keep.

"Ships FOB our warehouse"  → add: "(you cover shipping from our warehouse)"  ✓
A glossary linked from technical product terms.                              ✓

Where we can help

We flag jargon and idioms in your key pages and suggest plain-language rewrites or glossary entries. Clearer copy also converts better, so this is one where accessibility and sales pull the same direction.

Frequently asked questions

What does unusual words require?+

Success Criterion 3.1.3 (Level AAA) says there must be a way to find the meaning of words or phrases used in an unusual or restricted way, including jargon and idioms. That could be an inline definition, a link to a definition, or a glossary.

What counts as an unusual word?+

Industry jargon, technical terms, brand-specific vocabulary, and idioms whose meaning isn't literal (an English idiom that a non-native speaker or someone with a cognitive difference might read word for word).

How do stores usually meet it?+

Write plainly and, where a specialist term is unavoidable, define it inline or link it to a glossary entry. For a store selling technical products, a short glossary of the key terms handles most of it.

Unusual Words