When learning a foreign language, it is normal to start with formal structures.
However, once you've mastered them, it's good to brush up on the casual terms and phrases that many native speakers use in conversation.
english slangis a term for this kind of language. Many non-natives find it difficultwatch movies in Englishand TV shows because slang and phrases are very common on them.
If you are one of those who is trying to learn the most common slang words in English and their meanings, this post is for you. Read on.
What are common slang terms in the English language?
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- What is 'slang'?
- Where do slang words come from?
- Why do people use slang?
- What effect does slang have on society?
- Difference Between British and American Slang Words/Phrases
- Is it appropriate to use jargon in academic writing?
- Summary table of the most common slang and phrases in English
- Why do we have to learn slang and phrases?
What is 'slang'?
Jargonrefers to words in a person's vocabulary that are not often found in dictionaries.
Many of these buzzwords have multiple definitions, but you need to pay close attention to context to use them effectively. This makes it a better idea to improve and practice.
English slang terminology with co-workers before using it with strangers. Knowing the slang and phrases has many advantages, including being able to use them in everyday situations and being able to connect with others on a more personal and intimate level, as they bring an element of informality to our interactions.
Slang terms are an important part of the English language. Jargon is full of odd sayings and colloquialisms that are useful in a wide range of casual circumstances.
Whether you're an experienced English speaker or a beginner, you may want to brush up on your command of the most popular slang expressions used in everyday life.
you won't be able to learnslang and common phrasesin English with a single manual. Picking up on social cues while listening to native speakers is key to making slang and phrases sound regular.
Hear how these terms are used in music, film, and television for a better understanding. Don't be afraid to copy what they are saying. Make these common slang words part of your everyday speech.
Where do slang words come from?
Over time, language evolves and changes. New terms and new connotations for old words appear regularly. This occurs when people search for new and inventive ways to express themselves. People can use slang to be funny, clever, unique, surprising, friendly, or even covert.
The most common slang terms in English have emerged from three different sources in the last two decades. Popular music, politics, and the Internet are three examples.
Many slang terms have arisen due to popular music, mainly rap and hip hop. Lyricists help by creating new and innovative ways to express yourself.
Politics also spawned several of the most common words and phrases in English slang. This is partly because people seem to be divided on important issues.
Words like'Snowflake,''I woke up,' mi 'caused' it took on new meanings, for better or worse. This is often due to the constant struggles that take place before, during, and after election cycles.
The Internet, on the other hand, the Internet is perhaps the most important generator of the most common slang and phrases in English. This truth should not surprise us in today's technological world.
This can arise due to the changing nature of technology ('autofoto', any?). Every once in a while it's a fashion ('Y.O.L.O.'—"You only live once!"). More new slang terms are created on the Internet than anywhere else.
The Internet, however, is not just a source of new jargon. It also makes it easier for those words to enter our heads and affect our language more quickly.
In several weeks, if not days, the Internet and social media can help a new jargon emerge and spread around the world.
Why do people use slang?
Jargon is rarely used to exchange information. Quite often, slang is used for social purposes: to identify group members, change the tone of the conversation to informality, and challenge established authority.
Sharing and maintaining an ever-evolving vocabulary of slang promotes group cohesion and allows members to be included and excluded.
Slang is the linguistic equivalent of fashion and serves a similar function.
Effective slang, such as fashionable clothing and forms of popular entertainment, must be new, attractive, and capable of gaining the approval of a group quickly. Using archaic vocabulary is the most damaging thing you can do to your group's status.
An unknown familiar lexicon outside the group is often considered a beneficial approach for counterculture or anti-establishment groups to keep information secret or cryptic.
Jargon is often developed by people in society who have little real political power (such as teenagers, college students, and enlisted soldiers) or who are motivated to disguise what they know or do from those in positions of authority.
What effect does slang have on society?
Without a doubt, slang is crucial because it allows you to communicate with those around you while emphasizing your communication.
We use slang to establish our identity as members of groups, which is one of the main reasons why.
We consider someone who uses the same type of slang as us to be a member of our group, while others who don't understand the slang are considered outgroup members.
Slang has always had and will continue to have both a beneficial and detrimental impact on society.
New jargon emerges as society evolves and changes, while old jargon fades. However, this will make it more difficult for people to distinguish between when to use slang and when not to use it.
Millennials have moved away from the language of texting and are now using memes and emojis to communicate with others.
Also, teenagers are the ones that generate the most slang. This also acts as a means to further separate them from their parents' generation, making the slang and phrases even more interesting.
Difference Between British and American Slang Words/Phrases
Today there is1.5 billion English speakers on the planet. Not surprisingly, the English language has 160 different regional variations.
Each has its own set of spelling, pronunciation, and slang.
The next section focuses on the difference between jargon and common phrases inBritish EnglishmiAmerican English.
Use of American slang words and phrases
As you read through this list, keep in mind that American slang varies depending on where you are in the country. Certain slang terms, for example, are used more in rural areas than in urban areas.
Remember that slang is meant for casual conversation and should not be used in a formal setting.
Also, don't expect these English slang terms to be accepted in England. While there are some expressions shared by both countries, each has its own set of slang terms in English.
everyday slang
Jargon and phrases | Meaning | example sentences |
---|---|---|
I understand you. | I sympathized with you. | "I understand you, I've been in this situation before." |
I understand. | I understand. | "I see. I know you have other things to do. |
My mistake. | My mistake. | “My mistake for ordering the wrong pizza. Please wait; I'll have to buy you the right flavor. |
Nothing more. | No problem. | "Don't worry about it. It's not a big problem." |
Nothing more. | No problem. | “I apologize for the mess. I will clean. - Nothing else. |
No problem. | All good. | "I'm sorry for the lack of communication." "Don't worry." |
Oh my God! | It is used to describe shock, surprise, or excitement. | "Oh my gosh! Is this a new iPhone?" |
Even here. | I agree. | “I cannot attend the meeting tonight. I have other things to do. - The same here. |
And there? | How's it going? | "Ey Jim! We haven't seen each other in a long time. And there?" |
Bet! | Certainly. You are welcome. | "Thanks for the sweater." "You bet." |
slang descriptors
Jargon and phrases | Meaning | example sentences |
---|---|---|
hit | exhausted | "I was so exhausted after driving for eight hours." |
bomba | Very good | “Last night's food was so good!” |
disappointment | A disappointment | "It's a pity you couldn't come with us yesterday." |
corny | disparate | “That was such a corny excuse. Who would believe that? |
cold | Chill out | "You have to relax. They'll be fine. |
legal | Fantastic | "It will not rain today". "Cool." |
corny | Very bad | “Your joke is corny. Nobody laughed. |
epic | Incredible | “The trip was so epic! I will go there again!” |
strange | Undecided | “We are not going to trust her; she tends to be weird. |
warm | Attractive | "That actor is hot." |
It was horrible. | It is used to refer to someone or something that is not good or of poor quality. | “The movie sucks. do not look |
relaxed | calm or relaxed | “He is a relaxed person. They all love him." |
Very bad | opposite of fantastic | “The play was so tattered. I wasted my time looking." |
lined | physically fit | “There's no way I can beat him; he is so ripped! |
dirty | suspicious or questionable | “I wouldn't trust her; she is dark |
sick | Incredible | "These sunglasses are sick!" |
dulce | Fantastic | "The teacher agreed to postpone the exam." "Dulce." |
Slang for people and relationships.
Jargon and phrases | Meaning | example sentences |
---|---|---|
baby | a term of affection | "Hello dear!" |
chica | A young woman or girl | "That girl is cute!" |
play outside | end a love relationship | "She broke up with him over a stupid thing." |
ex | A former partner or spouse | "I'm friends with my ex." |
being hooked | ready to marry | "I can't believe you're finally getting married." |
party animal | someone who loves parties | "He was a partier before he got married." |
to switch off | Something that causes repulse | “He's so swaggering; he is a closure. |
tie the o | ready to marry | "One of my closest friends is getting married in October." |
genius | An extremely intelligent or intelligent person. | “She is a beast! He was able to solve the puzzle in seconds.” |
social events
Jargon and phrases | Meaning | example sentences |
---|---|---|
An explosion | A very exciting and fun event. | “I had a lot of fun on the show! The band was amazing!” |
to drink | alcoholic beverages | "No drinking at the party." |
burst | A movie | "I do not like horror movies". |
food | food | "Do you want to order food later?" |
spend time together | To spend time with other people. | "Let's go out next week!" |
I am down. | I will join. | "He likes basketball." |
I'm in. | I will join. | “I like pizza and drinks.” |
to appear | To appear at an event or meeting | I'm not sure it shows up. He doesn't answer my calls. |
wasted | drunk | "I was so drunk last night that I don't know what time the guests left." |
slang for actions
Jargon and phrases | Meaning | example sentences |
---|---|---|
alas | to be good at something | “He did well in piano lessons.” |
bail | Do Not Enter | “I would have to quit bowling tonight; I have an urgent matter to attend to. |
caught | Being seen or caught doing something inappropriate | "They got you! I'll tell Mom and Dad." |
topping up | Spend a lot of time preparing and studying before an exam. | "She always concentrates every time there is a test." |
hatch | Sleep | “I was so tired; he will fall soon. |
ditch | Leaving behind something or someone, a place or an object | “She dropped her friends off to watch a movie with him.” |
papas | Make a mistake | "The newly hired employee gambled and ruined the company's finances." |
illuminate | Chill out | "You have to relax; we will land soon. |
eat like a pig | eat a lot | “I've been down lately; I think I gained four kilos. |
score | To get what you want | "I got a used bag at a thrift store for only $5!" |
spoil | Make a mistake | "He's in trouble for blowing the company's budget." |
to involve | to finish something | "Let's end this meeting and continue our work." |
modern american slang
Jargon and phrases | Meaning | example sentences |
---|---|---|
gift | something that is free | "The store offers free gifts for customers who purchase more than $20." |
lemon | a bad buy | “This painting is a lemon. You could have bought it for half the price at other stores.” |
lots | Sunglasses | "I need new shades." |
shotgun | front passenger seat | "Can I sit on the shotgun?" |
in any moment | much soon | "The meeting will be over in a short time." |
presage | one dollar | “Do you have three dollars that I can borrow?” |
to cheat | A very expensive purchase | “That belt is a steal; it's false." |
Use of British slang words and phrases
if you prefer to watchThe Royal Familyor binge series like 'doctor who', you've come across some weird and fantastic British English terminology.
Different areas may have their own distinct language within the same country or even within the same city.
It's no surprise, then, that slang within the City of London, let alone between other English-speaking countries in general, can be so disparate.
Here is a list of some of the most common British English phrases and slang.
everyday slang
Jargon and phrases | Meaning | example sentences |
---|---|---|
Curse | an expression of surprise | 'Man, that was an amazing performance! |
swamp roller | a toilet paper | "Please buy some buns when you go shopping." |
all animals | Nothing itself. | "I've fucked up all day today." |
Health! | Bye bye! | "Happiness! I have to go!" |
Health! | ¡Gracias! | "Greetings to all of you for coming out tonight!" |
romper | go or keep doing something | "It's getting dark, I better continue." |
eviscerated | To be disappointed | "I was so devastated when the Lakers lost." |
no | Abbreviation of 'Isn't'It is?' | "It's raining, isn't it?" |
Libra | sterling | "I need a few pounds to ride the bus." |
word | Abbreviation of'loss' | “I forgot it's your birthday. Only. |
slang descriptors
Jargon and phrases | Meaning | example sentences |
---|---|---|
exist | a crazy idea | "Spending a hundred dollars on a meal is insane!" |
bloody | used to mean'In fact'o'extremely' | "That's a brilliant idea!" |
bold | rude and disrespectful | "He's known for being cheeky." |
Charmed | happy and delighted | "My parents are happy that I finally graduated." |
idiot | disparate | “This is such a dumb idea. Let's not do that. |
deceased | used to mean'In fact'o'extremely' | "He's serious about the plan." |
doubtful | suspicious or questionable | She's been acting a little dishonest. |
exhausted | Tired out | "My dad is absolutely exhausted after building the treehouse." |
mixing | something disgusting or disgusting | "From the way you say it, it sounds like it's such an enticing scene to witness." |
cup | gullible | “She is a cup; I'm sure you can convince her. |
Slang for people and relationships.
Jargon and phrases | Meaning | example sentences |
---|---|---|
bev | a handsome man | "He's a baby". |
Cara | A man | "He's a good, decent guy." |
brother | friend or brother | "He's my bruv when I was in college." |
graft | flirtation | "They are totally grafted in." |
chico | A young man | "That guy moved in just a few weeks ago." |
shut up | Leave | "Could you please come out? I am studying. |
social events
Jargon and phrases | Meaning | example sentences |
---|---|---|
joke | To make jokes, usually about another person, but all in a good mood. | "People who like jokes are sweetheart." |
bevvy | drinks abbreviation | "Could you pour us some bevvy please?" |
buzz | Drunk or a little drunk | "I'm buzzing after just two bottles of beer." |
teaspoon | A cup of tea | "My manager invited me to have a cup of tea." |
confusion | a disagreement with someone | "They sent him to the rectory because he had a fight with one of the teachers." |
contender | food | "These are really good!" |
elegant | Elegant | They ate at a fancy restaurant. |
slang for actions
Jargon and phrases | Meaning | example sentences |
---|---|---|
goose | Look around | “They try to check it out and see if they like the place.” |
shocked | Being completely shocked or shocked beyond belief | “The audience was stunned when he started singing.” |
to lose the thread | annoy | “My mom lost her mind when she saw my little sister's mess” |
user | Steal | "He stole those sweets for his little sister." |
him | be sarcastic | "Chill out,and don't be angry; YoI was just peeing. |
tell the pigs | tell lies | "Don't you dare tell the pigs what happened while I wasn't here." |
play a wobbly | To throw a tantrum, usually by adults or someone older. | "He's too old to throw a wobbly one like that." |
modern british slang
Jargon and phrases | Meaning | example sentences |
---|---|---|
queer | A cigar | "Do you have cigarettes?" |
cinco | a five pound note | "Do you have five? I need to buy some sandwiches. |
harpoon | lar | “I'm going for the hook; I'm tired." |
instant | a short period | "I'll finish my homework in a jiffy." |
sleep | a nap | "Let me take a break real quick." |
disappointed | Drunk | "He's totally pissed off last night." |
penniless | no have money | "She is now devastated after investing in such a horrible business idea." |
dez | a ten pound note | "Can you lend me a ten?" |
Is it appropriate to use jargon in academic writing?
The goal of a good writer should be to explain ideas clearly; each paragraph should be easily understandable.
This implies that you must do without the specific grammatical form, the language and, in general, the relationship between thoughts and forms of expression.
Believe it or not, the respective expressed thoughts can lose courage and strength due to the inappropriate expression of language.
Therefore, if your writing is full of jargon, it may contain specific ideas that are contradictory with others, and therefore the result will be bad. It is essential to always be cautious.
Jargon should never be used and should be avoided at all costs.
It is common to see academic writing using everyday language or jargon in today's world. It is important to remember that technical language is formal and follows certain rules.
What you say in conversation or in colloquial language may sound great, but it can sometimes be inappropriate when you write it down.
When writing, you should keep in mind that your work will be read by people other than your professor.
They can be from various countries, educational backgrounds, etc.
Therefore, you must be cautious when incorporating slang and phrases so that everyone understands your message.
Summary table of the most common slang and phrases in English
In addition to the slang and phrases mentioned above, there are still a few worth learning and studying.
Here are some of them.Slang words and phrases Meaning example sentences machado Get the sack “My aunt was fired and now she is looking for a new job.” she was Have a luxurious lifestyle "Her family is now having fun after winning the lottery." bovine meat conflict with someone “They have been eating meat for more than a decade.” costly an eye-catching jewel "It's obvious he's showing off his ring." brick Cold “Put on some layers; it's brick outside. cabby a taxi driver/taxi driver “The taxi driver was friendly and funny.” conspiring together Working together in secret “My friends were in cahoots with my parents when they planned my birthday” cold fish an unfriendly person “I wouldn't go near her; she is a cold fish. grumpy Irritable "He's grumpy because he's getting old." distress It is usually accompanied by a facial or body expression that expresses disgust or discomfort. “She cringed when she saw them eat those foods.” stop Dirty; unclean “The kitchen is crunchy; you have to clean it. Covered area throw someone to the ground "The police knocked the man down and handcuffed him." risky Risky; insecure “Don't walk alone at night; he is risky. to insult Show contempt by saying or doing something demeaning "The two neighbors quarreled with each other." idiot socially awkward "I used to be a jerk when I was in high school." I do not know I do not know. Do you know what time the guests will arrive? "I don't know." elbow grease Hard work "The team can secure the championship with a little effort." extra Unnecessarily dramatic, extravagant and over the top “She wore and wore three dresses during the party. She was so extra. to lie A little white lie "She told a lie to get out of trouble." fold to show “If you visit his social media accounts, you can see him making his travels more flexible.” flip flops To make an abrupt change in someone's mind or policies "The committee seemed to be in doubt as to who is to blame." coincidence A favorable result is due to luck, not talent. “It was by chance that he won the contest; manyparticipants were unable to attendthe location on time.” grave He used to speak sincerely and honestly. "He's really coming tonight, really!" frontal Pretending to be good at something to impress someone "She's showing off her Spanish to impress the judges." The goat. Abreviatura de Greatest of All Time "Michael Jordan is the G.O.A.T." garbage Something that is of poor quality. “This project sucks!” ghost stop communicating with someone "Jim outshone Jane after a few months of dating." go crazy/bananas to get mad "The crowd went wild when the players started dancing." stomach Courage "Mindy didn't have the heart to tell her family what happened." Hola It is used as an adjective to indicate something that is exceptionally good. "She's very kind and nice." hooked Addicted "Nowadays, I am addicted to perfumes." moda Excessive praise for a product or person. "The products are often over the top." they elegant; Fashion "Hoop earrings were all the rage back in the day." I'm kidding I'm kidding. "Do not take it seriously. You must be kidding! illuminated Fantastic “The game was completely lit! I'm sorry you didn't see it live! loser A person you don't like "He's a loser." humor When someone wants to say something that is identifiable "Mark leaving the event is a state of mind." No ¡No! Have you seen Sue today? "No!" in the race perfectly done “The party food was great!” honest talk When someone wants to talk about something serious. “We need to have a serious conversation. Come home early. to piss It refers to cases in which someone is offended or insulted. "He was roasted by his companions." salgado When a person becomes agitated or enraged over a minor issue “He left the event early because he didn't get promoted. He is so salty. shook shocked “My God, I'm shocked! I need to see the film adaptation!” destroy A way to express deep gratitude for someone who excels at something or completes a task. “She rocks every performance!” feliz enthusiastic "Everyone is happy with the opening of the new store." tea hot news "Here's the tea: the couple have money problems and file for bankruptcy." cast shadow Negatively judge or say something terrible about another person "She is throwing shade at her ex-husband." angry Disappointing; unable to meet expectations "The movie is complete madness." what the hell When you see something you can't identify "What the hell is this?!" simulator Sim! "Are you going to Mike's party tonight?" "Yeah!"
Why do we have to learn slang and phrases?
Jargon and phrases are an essential component of any language. Although they can be vulgar at times, they make language more interesting and colorful.
Many people can understand them, not just within a specific community, especially in this day and age when the internet can make something go viral overnight.
Jargon and phrases bring us closer and also enrich the language.
We hope this post has enriched your vocabulary on the most common slang terms and phrases and when to use them most effectively.Health!
Further reading — ENGLISH GRAMMAR
- What is British English?
- What is American English?
- What is Canadian English?
- What is Australian English?
- More than 30 tips to speak English without grammatical errors
- What are mods?
- What are the verbs?
- What are nouns?
- What are adjectives?
- What are pronouns?
- What are adverbs?
- What are the times?
- What are punctuation marks?
- What are the prepositions?
- What are loanwords?
- What are phrasal verbs?
- What are placements?
- What are conjunctions?
- What are manners?
- What is subject-verb agreement?
- What are sentence structures?
- What are parts of speech?
- What are prayer functions?
- What are the clauses?
- What are the commonly misspelled words in English?