About Slang

Slang is considered an informal words usually used in spoken language. It consists of a lexicon of non-standard words and phrases in a given language. The development of slang is considered to be a largely “spontaneous, lively, and creative” speech process. It is usually associated with a particular group and plays a role in constructing our identities. While slang outlines social space, attitudes about slang partly construct group identity and identify individuals as members of groups. Therefore, using the slang of a particular group will associate an individual with that group.

Slang should not or must not be use in formal letter and in any written form.

As the world advances, words we use also changes and develops.

According to Bethany K. Dumas and Jonathan Lighter argue that an expression should be considered "true slang" if it meets at least two of the following criteria:

- It lowers, if temporarily, "the dignity of formal or serious speech or writing"; in other words, it is likely to be considered in those contexts a "glaring misuse of register."
- Its use implies that the user is familiar with whatever is referred to, or with a group of people who are familiar with it and use the term.
- "It's a taboo term in ordinary discourse with people of a higher social status or greater responsibility."
- It replaces "a well-known conventional synonym". This is done primarily to avoid discomfort caused by the conventional synonym or discomfort or annoyance caused by having to elaborate further.

Examples of slang:

chill - to relax; "hang out"
a face that only a mother could love - an ugly face
ain't got no - "don't have any"
all bark and no bite - to talk a lot but never take action.
chicken out - to not go through with a plan because of fear.
have wings - referring to something (often an idea) that could possibly develop into something big.
left-winger - in the United States, a member of the Democratic party.
right-winger - in the United States, a member of the Republican party.
steamed up - meaning "angry". example: Don't get so steamed up over the issue.
take a hike - meaning "leave". I am tired of all your complaining. Take a hike.
threads - meaning "clothes". Those look like expensive threads he is wearing.

About Slang

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