Marcelo Paiva

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Success criterion 3.1.3

Unusual Words

A mechanism is available for identifying specific definitions of words or phrases used in an unusual or restricted way.

  • Level AAA
  • Principle 3: Understandable
  • Guideline 3.1: Readable

In a user’s words

“What do you mean by 'propinquity'? Speak English, website!”

Who this helps: Cognitive Impairments, Non-native Speakers

What each role can do

Product manager
Include a glossary or tooltips for unusual or technical terms.
Designer
Design easily accessible ways to get definitions, such as hover tooltips or links to a glossary.
Developer
Implement tooltips or hyperlinks for words that are unusual or used in a restricted manner.
Tester
Verify that all unusual or technical terms have definitions or explanations that are easily accessible.

Once it is fixed

“Thanks for the vocab lesson! Now I don't feel like I'm reading an alien language.”

The quotes are written to illustrate the criterion. They are not testimonials from real people. For the official wording, find 3.1.3 in the W3C quick reference for WCAG 2.2 (opens in a new tab).

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