grammar - Is there a name for the abbreviated syntax used in signs etc?


For instance, a train sign might say South bound trains this platform rather than Use this platform to take a Southbound train.


There is an interesting lack of articles and sometimes verbs, is there a name for this style (or a reason for it)?



Answer



From Wikipedia--


Telegram style, telegraph style, telegraphic style or telegraphese describes a clipped way of writing that attempts to abbreviate words and pack as much information into the smallest possible number of words and/or characters.


It originated in the telegraph age when telecommunication consisted only of short messages transmitted by hand over the telegraph wire. The telegraph companies charged for their service by the number of words in a message, with a maximum of 15 characters per word for a plain-language telegram, and 10 per word for one written in code. The style developed to minimize costs but still convey the message clearly and unambiguously.


Of the four names mentioned, telegraphic style is the version that I'm familiar with.


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