3.1.4
Abbreviations

Provide Expansions for Abbreviations

Ensure that users can easily find the full meaning of abbreviations used on a page.

Acceptance Criteria

A clear method is available to view the expanded form or full meaning of any abbreviations used in the content.

Examples

  • An abbreviation like “W3C” is introduced with its expanded form: “World Wide Web Consortium (W3C).”
  • A tooltip appears when users hover over an abbreviation like “HTML,” showing “HyperText Markup Language.”
  • A dedicated list or glossary page provides definitions for all abbreviations used on the site.
  • Screen readers access the expanded form of abbreviations through hidden text or ARIA attributes.

Exceptions

When abbreviations are explained immediately in context or through links to definitions.

Tips

  • Use tooltips or inline expansions for common abbreviations to keep the content accessible without clutter.
  • Include a glossary or a “Terms and Abbreviations” page for more complex or less common abbreviations.

How to test?

  • Verify that every abbreviation on the page has a method for users to view its full meaning.
  • Check tooltips or hidden text in the code to ensure they correctly provide expanded forms of abbreviations.