arXiv:2504.12317v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Scientific language is a central infrastructure of knowledge production, but it remains unclear whether large language models (LLMs) are altering not only how scientists write, but also how scientific knowledge is communicated and accessed. Here we analyze 21.36 million scientific abstracts published between 2020 and 2024, together with historical records from major journals, to trace recent changes in the language of science. We identify a marked turning point in 2024, when scientific writing shows a sharp increase in lexical complexity alon
The study analyzes abstracts published between 2020 and 2024, identifying a sharp increase in lexical complexity in scientific writing starting in 2024, directly correlating with the increased adoption and capability of LLMs.
This indicates a measurable impact of large language models on the fundamental infrastructure of knowledge production and communication, affecting how scientific information is created, disseminated, and potentially understood.
The language of science is becoming more complex due to LLM integration, which could alter accessibility and the very nature of scientific discourse, moving beyond mere writing assistance.
- · AI model developers
- · Scientists proficient in LLM-assisted complex writing
- · Publishers adapting to new linguistic norms
- · Scientists without LLM access/proficiency
- · Journals not adapting to new writing styles
- · Readers preferring simpler scientific language
Scientific abstracts show increased lexical complexity since 2024 due to LLM usage.
This trend could widen the gap between advanced scientific communication and broader public or interdisciplinary understanding, creating new information access barriers.
The perceived authority and objectivity of scientific publications may be subtly undermined if LLMs introduce stylistic complexities that obscure meaning or intent, leading to a re-evaluation of scientific communication standards.
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