By Civil Service World

14 Aug 2015

Civil Service World's regular guide to the very best in Whitehallese


In slower time

There’s no way will we ever do this, but we realise it would look impolitic to say so upfront.

Deep dive

Rambling chat around the subject which leaves everyone feeling even more confused than they were before.

Delivering through others

I’m “working from home” tomorrow, so would you mind sorting out everything I’ve cocked up this week? Thanks.

Civil service seasons

The time periods ministers promise to publish something or report on by, and when publication actually occurs. Examples include:

In the New Year: By Easter

Spring: By the time summer recess begins

Summer: By mid-October when Parliament resumes

Autumn: By Christmas

In due course: I have no idea if or when we plan to publish this.

Got your own examples of Whitehall jargon to share? Email editorial@civilserviceworld.com in confidence


Now read these

Terminological inexactitudes: handy translations of Whitehall jargon (Vol. I)
Terminological inexactitudes: handy translations of Whitehall jargon (Vol. 2)
Terminological inexactitudes: handy translations of Whitehall jargon (Vol. 3)
Terminological inexactitudes: handy translations of Whitehall jargon (Vol. 4)
Terminological inexactitudes: handy translations of Whitehall jargon (Vol. 5)

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