Slang is the use of informal words and expressions that are not considered typical in a speaker’s language and it tends to originate in subcultures within a society. Slang often suggests that the person talking is familiar with the person or persons whom are listening. It can be considered a distinguishing factor of in-group identity. Slang embodies the attitude as well as the values of the group that uses it. Slang occurs when those words enter the general population, they start using the phrase and its new meaning even if they do not fully understand the history behind it. Slang is also more commonly used amongst young people rather than adults.
People tend to think slang and jargon is the same thing, they are not. Slang tends to be more humorous, mostly crude humor, and playful. Slang also seems to keep with its time period and particular generation; however, some slang terms and phrases are lucky enough to stick around.
What makes a term or phrase “true slang? Bethany K. Dumas and Jonathan Lighter believe that an expression could be considered “true slang” if it meets two of the four following criteria:
1. It lowers the dignity of formal speech or writing.
2. Its use implies that the user is familiar with whatever is being referred to.
3. It is a “taboo” term is normal conversation with those of a higher social status.
4. It replaces a well-known conventional synonym.
Slang is used in every subculture around the world. Some examples of cultures that use slang are America, Britain and Australia. Some commonly used American slang is “pickled,” “racket,” and “rap.” To get “pickled” means to get drunk or intoxicated. “Racket” is a lot of noise or a commotion. To “rap” about something means to talk about something. Some commonly used British slang is “barmy,” “bomb,” “chuffed,” and “honking.” If someone tells you you’ve gone “barmy,” it means you’ve gone mad. For something cost a “bomb” means it is very expensive. When you are “chuffed” with something, you are very pleased with something. When someone tells someone else you’re “honking,” it means you’re throwing up. Some commonly used Australian slang is “bikkie,” “cobber,” and “stickybeak.” “Bikkie” is actually Australian slang for biscuit. In Australia, if someone calls you their “cobber,” he is calling you his friend. If an Australian calls you a “stickybeak,” you are probably trying to be in his business because “stickybeak” is slang for nosy person.
I think slang is everywhere. I agree that it does distinguish a group’s identity. I agree and think the way a person talks slang to one another can tell you if the people are close and know each other. It seems now a days slang is more commonly used then proper English. Slang is mostly humorous especially when used amoung teen agers. Sometimes slang is hard to understand if you do not know all the new terms or phrases. It is interesting to see all the different types of slang used around the world. It is different depending on the location.
ReplyDeleteI think bridgett's blog was insightful. I like the examples of different slang terms given from different areas. I do think that slang is used to distinguish different groups from one another. And that it also gives the elite even more reason to look down on others for making up a short language instead of speaking correctly. But I think it's fine to use as long as you use it in moderation.
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