My memory and Terminologies

I have always had a problem with remembering terminologies. I was talking to my friend about the importance of learning Java Design Pattern. He was telling me about a few. I think you learn things when you want to use them or when you have encountered an issue and you think that the knowledge of these would help. Particularly with Patterns, I have never understood them when I tried right after college. I guess you need to see its usage to realize its importance.

During this conversation I only realized that I have used a few good practices without knowing that they were good practices. Mostly by looking at others code. Like the use of Static Factory or how to use CONSTANTS and the like. Its just I have never associated these practices with a name or a pattern.

But I do agree that in a discussion it makes ideas more concise and understandable if you use relevant terminologies. I have seen a few terminology freaks who over-use, misuse or abuse them. And I always interrupt asking them to translate it to me. I guess I am not literate enough :)