Slang

Slang

File:Dictionary of Slang, Jargon & Cant (1889) by Barrere & Leland.djvu

Slang is a type of informal language that consists of words and phrases that are regarded as very informal, are more common in speech than writing, and are typically restricted to a particular context or group of people. Slang is often used to establish or reinforce social identity or cohesiveness within a group, and it can also be used to exclude outsiders.

Characteristics

Slang is characterized by its novelty and its departure from standard language. It often involves the creation of new words or the use of existing words in new ways. Slang terms can be short-lived or may become permanent fixtures in the language. They often arise from the need to express new ideas or to describe new experiences, particularly those that are not easily captured by existing words.

Origins

Slang often originates from subcultures or specific social groups, such as teenagers, musicians, or criminals. It can also arise from specific regions or communities. The origins of slang can be difficult to trace, as it is often passed down orally and can change rapidly.

Functions

Slang serves several functions in language. It can:

• Establish identity: Slang can help individuals identify with a particular group or subculture.
• Exclude outsiders: By using slang, a group can create a sense of exclusivity and keep outsiders from understanding their conversations.
• Express creativity: Slang allows speakers to play with language and express themselves in creative ways.
• Convey informality: Slang is often used in casual or informal settings, helping to create a relaxed atmosphere.

Examples

Slang varies widely across different languages and cultures. In English, examples of slang include terms like "cool" (meaning good or fashionable), "lit" (meaning exciting or excellent), and "bae" (a term of endearment for a significant other).

Evolution

Slang is constantly evolving, with new terms being created and old ones falling out of use. The rapid pace of change in slang reflects the dynamic nature of language and the influence of cultural and technological changes. Social media and the internet have accelerated the spread of slang, allowing terms to gain popularity quickly across wide geographic areas.

Related pages

• Jargon
• Colloquialism
• Dialect
• Neologism