Amazon English, also known as Amazonian English or Bezospeak, refers to the unique language and colloquialisms that have emerged within the corporate culture of Amazon, the multinational technology company founded by Jeff Bezos. This form of English is characterized by its use of specialized terms, acronyms, and distinctive phrases that are specific to the company and its operations. While Amazon English has not been officially codified, it is widely used among employees and has grown in popularity as the company has expanded and diversified.
One of the key features of Amazon English is its extensive use of acronyms, which are often used to refer to specific departments, systems, or processes within the company. For example, FC (Fulfillment Center) refers to the warehouses where Amazon stores and ships its products, while DSP (Delivery Service Partner) denotes the network of independent contractors that deliver packages for the company. These acronyms are commonly used in internal communications, meetings, and written documents, and are often assumed to be understood by all employees.
In addition to acronyms, Amazon English also includes a number of specialized terms and phrases that are unique to the company. For example, "two-pizza team" refers to a small, autonomous work group that is meant to be no larger than can be fed with two pizzas. This concept is intended to promote collaboration and agility within the organization. Another common term is "customer obsession," which reflects Amazon's commitment to putting the customer at the center of all its decisions and actions.
Furthermore, Amazon English is known for its use of unconventional grammar and syntax, which can sometimes be challenging for newcomers to understand. For instance, the phrase "work backwards" is often used to describe the process of starting with the desired outcome and then working backwards to determine the steps needed to achieve it. Similarly, the term "Day 1 mentality" is used to emphasize the importance of maintaining a sense of urgency, innovation, and entrepreneurship, even as the company grows and evolves.
Overall, Amazon English serves as a unifying language and cultural marker for employees of the company, helping to create a sense of belonging and identity among a diverse workforce. While it can be intimidating for new hires to learn and master this specialized form of English, it also provides a sense of camaraderie and shared experience within the organization. As Amazon continues to expand and innovate, it is likely that Amazon English will evolve and grow, reflecting the changing dynamics of the company and its workforce.