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. |