One of the developments which must certainly be credited to the nineteenth century is the growth of an objective and scientific attitude towards slang which has become one of the most prominent features of the English language.
Slang is very informal language that consists of words and phrases basically used in speech rather than writing and restricted in a specific region or a particular group of people.
Slang Definition
Slang has been defined by Greenough and Kittredge as
“a peculiar kind of vagabond language, always hanging on the outskirts of legitimate speech, but continually straying or forcing its way into the most respectable company.”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines slang as the
“language of a highly colloquial type, below the level of standard educated speech, and consisting cither of new words or of current words employed in some special sense.”
The following definition given by H. W. Fowler in his Modern English Usage, though inadequate by itself, is complementary to that of the Oxford Dictionary:
“the diction that results from the favourite game among the young and lively of playing with words and renaming things and actions.”
Origin of Slang
Slang has its root in topicality, convenience and elementary human nature. It originates and flourishes best in unconventionality. “Among the impulses which lead to the invention of slang”, Dr. H. Bradley says. “the two most important seem to be the desire to secure increased vivacity and the desire to secure increased sense of intimacy in the use of language.”
The conditions favouring the origin of slang is crowding and excitement As Camden Hotten has said, “Any sudden excitement or peculiar circumstance is quite sufficient to originate and set going a score of slang words.” Slang is as characteristic of the individual as of the clique, the profession, the trade and the class. In the opinion of Greenough and Kittredge the coinage and circulation of slang come from the desire of the individual to distinguish himself by oddity and grotesque humour. Another potent force that makes for slang is the impatience with existing words and phrases- the desire to escape from the restraints imposed by a formal standard. The man in the street considers the expression to dismiss tame and colourless, and so he substitutes “to give one the air”. For the same reason a young woman who fails to keep an engagement with a youngman stands him up. The desire to be novel and striking thus has much to do with the origin of slang. Again the desire to be secret and not to be understood by others around the slang-user has given birth to many slang. Students, very close friends, lovers, members of secret political societies, persons in prisons use slang with this end in view.
Slang is personal in its origin. It is the user who determines the matter and meaning of slang. And slang is devised by persons belonging to the different walks of life by persons of wit and ingenuity, stockbroker, scholar, labourer, lawyer, soldier, sailor, the man in the street, and the man in the car. Whatever the origin of slang, personality and environment are the two most powerful determinants of the nature of slang.
Uses of Slang
Slang, has some good uses. It enriches the language. It invests the abstract with solidity and concreteness, and the remote with nearness and immediacy It terrestrializes the ethereal, and brings down the idealistic to the materialistic level. But the greatest use of slang is in its euphemistic effect. There are many slangy expressions which mitigate the tragedy lightens the inevitability of death and prettifies folly or drunkenness. Among the euphemistic slang may be mentioned “make esay” (to kill), “step into a last bus” (to die), “hop the bags” (to attack the enemy across no man’s land), “in Adam and Eve’s togs” (naked), “excuse my French” (forgive me my strong language) etc.
Slang is sometimes used to amuse a superior and place self on an emotional and mental level with one’s audience. On many occasions a man has recourse to it to make known and even to assert that he belongs or has belonged to a certain school or collages or university, a certain trade or profession, an artistic or intellectual group of social class. In other words, he uses it in order to be in the swim” and establish contact. Slang is also employed to disperse or lessen the solemnity or excessive of gravity of conversation or the pomposity of a piece of writing.
Characteristics of Slang
The most important characteristic of slang is its tendency to rise in the verbal world, and thus to become ennobled. H.T. Buckle has very humorously said, “Many of these (slang) words and phrases are but serving their apprenticeship, and will eventually become the active strength of our language.” The slang of one generation has often become the literary language of the next. Many of the English idioms have come from slang, for “idiom is”, as John Brophy says, “fed by the tested inventions of slang”.
Among the slang phrases that have risen in status are “at fault” (from a dog’s losing the scent), “to start in” (to begin), “on the stocks” (in preparation), to peter out, down to bed rock, it is up to you to be in at the death, below the belt, mass play, knock-out blow etc.
Another distinctive characteristic of slang is its ephemerality. Since novelty is a quality which soon wears off, slang which derives its life from novelty has to be constantly renewed. Like man, its creator, slang comes and goes.
“Vamoose, skiddoo, twenty three and beat it give place to scram! which will certainly be forgotten when a newer expression catches the popular fancy.” (A.C. Baugh).
Also Read:
- Theories of the Origin of Language
The third characteristic of slang is its synonymous abundance, and the ideas and facts which are most fertile in synonyms are money, drinking, drunkenness, the sexual organs and the sexual act. In The Slang Dictionary Hotten lists 130 synonyms for money. He gives drink the next place and intoxication the third place. “But the tabooed words of standard English”, says E. Patridge, “are hardly less productive of slang synonyms: because of the need for euphemism, or of a desire to give them a different appearance and complexion, these taboos result in synonyms more ingenious, and many of them, more picturesque than those for money and drink.”
Slang in relation to legitimate speech
Slang hangs on the outskirts of the legitimate speech and some slang words manage, now and then, to find their way into legitimate speech. Thus we use now naturally, and with entire propriety, many slang words which were regarded as linguistically untouchable by writers of a generation or few generations ago. The expression “what on earth” seems to us an idiomatic expression and certainly will not be objected to in the speech of anyone today. But De Quincey condemned its use and was horrified at hearing it used by a government official. The word “row” in the sense of disturbance or commotion was considered slang in the eighteenth century and Todd (1818) described it as a very low expression, but to-day the word is used in this sense in the works of many reputed authors. So “to parry a thrust”, “o fence” (in an argument)”. “to cross swords with the opposing counsel”. “to bandy words”, “to wrestle with a problem”. “to trip one up” (in a discussion), “lo lose track of a subject”, “to run counter”, “to hit or miss the mark” are now all good English expressions, though most of them were formerly slang, and had passed through the intermediate stage of colloquialism before they gained admission to the legitimate vocabulary.
The once slangy words and expressions like bias (from bowling), fair play, foul play, hazard are all now firmly seated on the shelf of legitimate speech. Can any one now imagine that such indispensable words as “desire” and “salary” were once soldiers’ slang?
Some clipped words which were once slang now occupy a whole niche of legitimate vocabulary – exam for examination, auto for automobile, varsity for university, cab for cabriolet, van for wangward, fence for defence, miss for mistress, mob for mobile vulgus, per for apert, bus for omnibus (which was itself originally a slang term), pad for footpad, piano for pianoforte, kilo for kilogram, zoo for zoological garden, percent for per centum, pros and cons for pros and contras, sweets for sweetmeats, sport for disport etc.
To speak the truth, “there is no real difference in kind”, as Greenough and Kittredge say, “between the processes of slang and those of legitimate speech. Slang is only the rude luxuriance of the uncared for soil, knowing not the hand of the gardener.” The same desire for novelty as is constantly at work in slang is also constantly working in the figurative expressions and new coinages of legitimate speech.
Again like slang artistic literature, apart from the more conveyance of thought, seeks to stimulate the attention of the reader by clever novelty, and even sometimes to shock him into thought by grotesque or startling language. In this way, there come into existence a number of new words, most of which soon die, but some of which are sure to find their place in the general vocabulary. Phrase-composition is as active in slang as in legitimate speech. Thus carouse (shortened from the German gar aus ! ‘quite out‘), hoax (a shortening of hocus pocus), jeopardy (from French jeu parti) were all slang phrases, but are now included in the legitimate vocabulary.
Despite all these similarities between slang and legitimate speech, we cannot adopt all the products of slang without question. All human speech is intended for the cars of others, and as such, must possess a certain dignity and courtesy. Now most slang words have a taint of impropriety about it which makes it offensive. Again the very currency of slang hinges on its allusions to things which are not universally familiar or respectable with the result that slang comes to be regarded as vulgar and vague.
Furthermore, the accepted means of communication in any widespread Language like English has a certain constant and enduring nature. Though the language is ever in flux, yet the endurable and permanent elements far outbalance the changing elements so that in spite of all the changes that affect it, it remains always intelligible through a long period of time. Slang words, on the contrary, are evanescent, living through days, and not through Sears, and falling out of use even while one is speaking them. Hence slang sill-adapted to serve as a medium of intercourse and therefore is unsuitable for adoption into legitimate speech.” (Greenough and Kittredge).
Not only is slang characterized by ephemerality, but also it has no fixed meaning. Slang words are vague and ill defined, and their meanings grow more and more uncertain from day to day. The result is that the use of slang tends to level down all those nice differentiations in meaning, all those distinctions between word and word, which make for linguistic development. In slang everything is “fine” or “immense” or “stunning”, from an appetizing meal to a drama, from a mountain scenery to the cut of a friend’s trouser. Slang has been branded as the idle man’s dialect, and if the sign of cultivation is an enriched vocabulary, the constant employment of vague and uncertain slang for every shade of meaning reduces one’s thought to the ignorant level. When slang becomes definite and clear-cut in signification, it ceases to be slang, and finds it place in the legitimate vocabulary. “In fact, anything that is good in slang is almost sure to be picked up and adopted in legitimate speech.” (Greenough and Kittredge).
Slang Examples
In all languages slang is widely used by the native speaker. Here are a few examples of slang used in different English speaking countries:
21 Most Common British Slang
Sl. No. | British Slang/ English Slang | Meaning |
1. | All right? | This is commonly used as a greeting that doesn’t always need a response |
2. | Rubbish | criticize severely and reject as worthless |
3. | Snog | A kiss in any form |
4. | Pissed | This doesn’t mean angry or frustrated in the way Americans use it– rather, it means to be blind drunk |
5. | Bird | A word used to describe a woman |
6. | Fag | Another word for a cigarette |
7. | Posh | Posh typically denotes English upper-class folks. It equates to the American word ‘fancy’. |
8. | Taking the piss | it means one person is shocked at what another person is doing or saying. |
9. | Wanker | Possibly the best single-worded British insult on the list, wanker fits closest by ‘jerk’ or ‘a-hole’ |
10. | Cheers | While most people associate this word with a toast, it can also mean a quick ‘thanks’ or ‘thank you‘. |
11. | Bloody | a rude way of expressing great anger |
12. | Fancy | This term is used as a verb to express desire or wanting. For example, you might ask “Do you fancy some dinner?” |
13. | Mental | Absolutely crazy person |
14. | Cheeky | to describe something lighthearted but a little bit rude |
15. | Piece of cake | it’s easy to do |
16. | Tickety-boo | someone wants to express everything is going exceptionally well |
17. | Vibe | Refers to feelings, atmosphere, mood |
18. | Shirty | one way to describe someone who is ill-tempered |
19. | Hunky-dory | cool way of saying that something is just fine! |
20. | Cheerio | used to say goodbye |
21. | Ace | something that is awesome |
22 Popular American Slang
Sl. No. | American Slang | Meaning |
1. | Down to earth | Referring to someone who is humble, genuine, and easy to get along with |
2. | G.O.A.T. | Not the cute animal, but the acronym for “Greatest of all Time” |
3. | What’s good | It is often used to make friends say hello or to say how you are doing. |
4. | Chill | to relax, Hey, chill out! Everything will be fine |
5. | Shut up | stop talking, close your mouth |
6. | Freaky | “strange” or “weird” |
7. | Fire | awesome, excellent, crazy amazing |
8. | What’s up? | what are you doing? |
9. | Oh my God! | describe excitement or surprise |
10. | My bad | My mistake |
11. | No worries | That’s alright |
12. | Cool | Fine |
13. | Cheesy | silly |
14. | It sucked | It was bad/poor quality |
15. | Have a crush | Attracted to someone romantically |
16. | Dump | To end a romantic relationship with someone |
17. | Getting hitched/ Tying the knot | Get married |
18. | Hang out | To spend time with others |
19. | Freebie | Something that is free |
20. | Wrap up | To finish something |
21. | Netflix and chill | making out, sex |
22. | See ya! | goodbye |
11 Very Common Canadian Slang
Sl. No | Canadian Slang | Meaning |
1. | Eh? | indicate that you don’t understand something, can’t believe something is true |
2. | Canuck | An informal term for an individual from Canada |
3. | Klick | kilometers |
4. | Stag | pre-wedding bachelor |
5. | Beauty | Used to say something is good or awesome |
6. | Buddy | buddy is a way to talk about a person without using a name |
7. | Dart | A cigarette |
8. | Jesus Murphy | To avoid the guilt and shame of blasphemy yet retain the satisfaction of cursing |
9. | True | used instead of OK |
10. | What you sayin’? | It’s used when asking what someone is doing |
11. | Keener | A person who is extremely eager or keen to please others, not in a good way |
11 Most Used Aussie Slang
Sl. No. | Aussie Slang | Meaning |
1. | Billy | Teapot |
2. | mate | friend |
3. | cake hole | mouth |
4. | Ankle bitter | a small or young child |
5. | bonzer | great, awesome, first-rate |
6. | arvo | afternoon |
7. | in the nuddy | naked |
8. | pash | a passionate kiss |
9. | dog’s breakfast | complete chaos, mess |
10. | dinkum | unquestionably good or genuine |
11. | Stuffed | Tired |
8 Best Gen Z Slang
Gen Z or generation z refers to youth who were born after 1996. Gen Z uses specific slang words while communicating:
Sl. No. | Gen Z Slang | Meaning |
1. | no cap | to cap about something means “to brag, exaggerate, or lie” |
2. | OK boomer | |
3. | low-key/high-key | “quiet,” “restrained,” “moderate,” or “easygoing.” |
4. | simp | an insult for men who are seen as being too submissive to women |
5. | E-boy or E-girl | The one who uses the internet to express themselves. |
6. | Salty | feeling jealous |
7. | Finesse | to trick or manipulate someone or a situation in order to get what you want |
8. | Bet | this slang term means “yes” |
Top 5 Best Slang Dictionary
- Urban Dictionary
- Unsuck It
- Wiktionary
- Online Slang Dictionary
- Double-Tongued Dictionary
There are good slang and bad slang. Good slang has a real meaning, while bad slang has no meaning, and is simply a succession of sounds. Good slang is often humorous, witty, picturesque. It is also refined in its associations. Now good slang words frequently elevate themselves to the rank of colloquialism, and thus in time gain admission to the legitimate speech, “Hit or miss”, “tooth and nail”, “by hook or crook”, “sink or swim” “rough-and-ready”, “higgledy-piggledy were all slang, but have now passed through the colloquial stage and are recognized idioms.
“Again, an expression that is unquestionable slang may be so apt and necessary in the discussion of a particular subject, and so often quoted by the best writers, that it loses its taint and becomes a part of our common stock of quotation.”
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Slang Words! Slang words are defined as the words and phrases used informally in any language. Following is a list of 100 English slang words that are commonly used today. Most of them are American slang words and phrases.
Slang Words | Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VV9ewwMyceA
Slang Words | Slang Dictionary
List of 100 English slang words and phrases with their meanings and examples:
- Eye-popping – fantastic, astonishing
The New York Times had an eye-popping article this morning.
- Chicken – a coward
You’re a chicken, Tom!
- Con – Swindle
He tried to con me out of $20.
- Couch potato – people who watching T.V all day
You are such a couch potato on weekends.
- Ball – a good time
We had a ball at the party last night.
- Bazillion – uncountable number/ a very big number
We gets a bazillion followers everyday on Facebook fan page.
- Croak – to die
She married a millionaire just about to croak.
- Neat – excellent
Your house is always so neat – how do you manage it with three children?
- Nuts – crazy, mad
She’s beautiful. I’m nuts about her.
- Big guns – powerful, influenced people
Jed wanted to impress a Harvard professor and some other big guns.
- Dynamite – great, awesome
That teenager singer is really dynamite!
- Earful – scolding / reprimanding
I bet Sue gave you an earful when you got home.
- Bitch – complain/ gossip about something
Whenever the girls get together, they always find something to bitch about.
- Bonkers – mad/ insane
The man must be bonkers to take such a risk.
- Break – chance/ opportunity
Never give a sucker an even break.
- Bummed – sad or disappointed
I was really bummed out that there were no tickets left.
- Cheesy – cheap, outdated
We went to some cheesy bar in Baltimore.
- Cruising – going at a high speed
We fly at a cruising speed of 500 mph.
- Cushy – comfortably easy
It’s a cushy life for the rich.
- Deck – hit some on the face
Do that again and I’ll deck you.
- Deep pockets – having a lot of money
They’re looking for someone with deep pockets to pay for the research.
- Dinosaur – something or someone is very old
The Health Service has become a dinosaur. It needs radical reform if it is to survive.
- Airhead – a foolish/ dumb person
Boy, that salesman was the biggest airhead I’ve ever seen.
- Eyeball – look at, look over.
Challenge him, eyeball him, intimidate him.
- Fender-bender – a minor accident/collision between two vehicles
Another time I missed a date because I got into a fender-bender on the way there.
- Idiot box – the television
Phil has been staring at the idiot box all afternoon.
- Icky – unpleasant or annoying
What is this icky old stuff?
- Jam – trouble
How are we going to get ourselves out of this jam?
Slang dictionary | Infographic
- Hang out -spend time together in a place frequently
We often used to hang out in supermarkets.
- All-nighter – study all night
I pulled an all-nighter last night.
- Ditch – leave, abandon something
Let’s ditch school today.
- Flicks – films/ movies
What’s on at the flicks this week?
- Freebie – something that is free
All the journalists were given a freebie lunch.
- Gig – work, job
I had got totally pissed and had to do a gig that night.
- Guts – courage or boldness
Barbara hasn’t got the guts to leave her mother.
- Go bananas – go crazy
Love is making you go bananas!
- Goof off – Wasting time, not doing anything in particular
He’s been goofing off at school.
- Grand – thousand dollars
He lives in a grand house.
- Heave – vomit
The smell of the fish made me/my stomach heave.
- Hot – attractive
You look so hot in that dress!
- Hustle – leave hurriedly
I love the hustle and bustle of the marketplace.
- Glitch – defect or problem
This minor glitch has turned into a big problem for the airline.
- Jock – someone who plays a sport
She is a jock from a family of jocks, articulate only in that special, odd way that coaches are articulate.
- John – toilet
I need to meet John, r-i-g-h-t n-o-w!
- Junkie – a drug addict
His son was a junkie, the kid OD’d a year ago.
- Grub – food
Get yourself some grub and come and sit down.
- Loli – young female with a childlike appearance
This might sound weird, but I am a loli lover!
- Peanuts – very little money
He gets paid peanuts for doing that job.
- Rocking – great, awesome
He had a rocking performance!
- Shades – sunglasses
She was dressed in muted shades of blue.
- Sucks – awful or unacceptable
Life sucks, but worth fighting for.
- Meltdown – the completely breaking down
The stock market crash might lead to financial meltdown.
- Mickey mouse – something that does not make sense
It’s only a Mickey Mouse job.
- Oddball – weird, unusual person
The new boss is a bit of an oddball.
- Pissed off – extremely annoyed
I’m pissed off with the way they’ve treated me.
- Zero – an unimportant person
He is a zero in his family.
- Zit – pimple
I applied some pimple cream on the big zit on my face.
- Crap – worthless thing or a lie
You’re talking a load of crap!
- Crash – sleep
I just want to crash out on the sofa.
- Crash – break into/ attempt to get in somewhere
Last night, a thief crashed my house. Luckily, He was arrested by the polices.
Slang dictionary | Infographic
- Quarterback – lead or initiative
The Carolina Panthers were playing with a backup quarterback.
- Beemer – a BMW car
He’s got a new beemer, what a rich man!
- Quick buck – Easy getting money
I need to make a quick buck without much effort.
- K – A thousand of a currency
It costs 10k.
- Kick back – relax
Kick back, make yourself at home.
- Raw – new and inexperienced
Raw meat must be kept separate from cooked meat.
- Razz – annoy
The pupils are razzing the teacher.
- Umpteen – incalculable
We’ve been there umpteen times and she still can’t remember the way.
- Whiz – Be talented at something
Apparently, he is a whiz at thank – you notes!
- Wimp – a cowardly person
Don’t be such a wimp.
- Up – Feeling cheerful or in good spirits
She feels up and down all day.
- UwU – a reaction to something cute
Bf: I love you bae Gf: Aww Ily UwU
- Vibes – atmosphere or feelings
I have good vibes about this contract.
- Wheels – a car
I’ve got a new wheels on my birthday.
Slang Words | Image
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Slang dictionary | Image 3
When learning a foreign language, it is normal to begin with formal structures.
However, once you have mastered these, it is good to brush up on the casual terms and phrases that many native speakers use in conversation.
English slang is a term for this type of language. Many non-natives find it challenging to watch English movies and television shows because slang words and phrases are so common in them.
If you are one of those who are trying to learn the most common slang words in English and their meanings, this post is for you. Please continue reading.
What are the Common Slang Words in the English Language?
Slang refers to words in a person’s vocabulary that are not frequently found in dictionaries.
Many of these buzzwords have multiple definitions, but you must pay great attention to the context to effectively use them. This makes it a better idea to improve and practice.
English slang terminology with coworkers before using them with strangers. Knowing slang words and phrases has several advantages, including being able to use them in everyday situations and being able to connect with others on a more personal, intimate level since they provide an element of informality to our interactions.
Slang terms are an important part of the English language. Slang is full of odd sayings and colloquialisms that are useful in a wide range of casual circumstances.
Whether you are an experienced English speaker or a newbie, you may wish to brush up on your command of the most popular slang expressions used in everyday life!
You will not be able to learn the most common slang words and phrases in English with simply a manual. Picking up on social cues while listening to native speakers is the key to making these slang terms and phrases sound regular.
Listen to how these terms are utilized in music, cinema, and television to understand better. Do not be scared to copy what they are saying. Make these common slang phrases a 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 arise regularly. This occurs as people seek fresh and inventive methods to express themselves. People might use slang to be amusing, intelligent, unique, startling, friendly, or even covert.
The most common slang terms in English have emerged from three distinct sources during the last two decades. Popular music, politics, and the Internet are three examples.
Many slang phrases have emerged due to popular music, particularly rap and hip hop. Lyricists help by coming up with new and innovative ways to express oneself.
Politics has also spawned a slew of English’s most common slang words and phrases. This is partly because people appear to be divided on major subjects.
Words like ‘snowflake,’ ‘woke,’ and ‘triggered’ have taken on new meanings, for better or worse. This is frequently due to the constant fighting that occurs prior to, during, and after election cycles.
The Internet, on the other hand, the Internet is perhaps the most important generator of the most common slang words and phrases in English. That truth should come as no surprise in today’s technology world.
This can arise due to the changing nature of technology (‘selfie’, anyone?). Occasionally, it is a passing fad (‘Y.O.L.O.’ — “You only live once!”). More new slang words are created on the Internet than anywhere else.
The Internet, however, is not merely a source of new slang terms. It also makes it easier for those words to get into our heads and affect our language faster.
In several weeks, if not days, the Internet and social media can help a new slang word emerge and spread worldwide.
Why Do People Use Slang Words?
Slang is rarely used to exchange information. More frequently than not, slang is used for social purposes: to identify group members, shift the tone of the conversation toward informality, and challenge established authority.
Sharing and sustaining a continually evolving slang vocabulary promotes group cohesion and allows members to be included and excluded.
Slang is the equivalent language of fashion, and it has a similar function.
Effective slang, like fashionable apparel and forms of popular entertainment, must be novel, engaging, and able to win approval in a group swiftly. Using archaic vocabulary is the most detrimental thing you can do to your group’s status.
A familiar lexicon unknown outside the group is often found to be a beneficial approach for counterculture or anti-establishment groups to keep information secret or enigmatic.
Slang is often developed by persons in society who have little real political power (such as adolescents, college students, and military enlisted soldiers) or who have the motivation to disguise what they know or do from those in positions of authority.
What Effect Does Slang Have on Society?
Without question, slang is crucial because it allows you to communicate with individuals around you while emphasizing your communication.
We use slang to establish our identities as members of groups, which is one of the main reasons.
We regard someone who uses the same type of slang as us as a member of our in-group, whereas others who do not grasp the slang phrases are considered out-group members.
Slang has always had and will continue to have a beneficial and detrimental impact on society.
New slang emerges as society evolves and changes, while old slang fades away. However, this will make it more difficult for individuals to distinguish between when to use slang and when not to use them.
Millennials have moved away from texting language and now use memes and emojis to communicate with others.
Furthermore, teenagers are the ones who generate the majority of slang. This also acts as a means of further separating them from their parent’s generation, making slang words and phrases all the more interesting.
Difference Between British and American Slang Words/Phrases
Right today, there are 1.5 billion English speakers on the planet. It is not surprising that the English language has 160 different regional variations.
Each has its own set of spellings, pronunciations, and slang.
The following section focuses on the difference between the most common slang words and phrases in British English and American English.
Using American Slang Words and Phrases
As you read through this list, remember that American slang varies depending on where you are in the country. Certain slang words, for example, are more widely used in rural areas than in urban areas.
Remember that slang words are intended for casual conversation and should not be used in a formal setting.
Also, do not expect these English slang terms to be accepted in England. While there are a few expressions that are shared by both countries, each has its own set of English slang.
Everyday Slang Words
Slang Words and Phrases |
Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
I feel you. | I sympathize with you. | “I feel you; I have been in that predicament before.” |
I get it. | I understand. | “I get it. I know you have other things to do.” |
My bad. | My mistake. | “My bad for ordering the wrong pizza. Please wait; I’ll have to buy you the right flavor.” |
No big deal. | No problem. | “Don’t worry about it. It’s no big deal.” |
No biggie. | No problem. | “I apologize for the mess. I’ll clean it up.” “No biggie.” |
No worries. | That’s alright. | “I’m sorry about the miscommunication.” “No worries.” |
Oh my God! | Used to describe the shock, surprise, or excitement | “Oh my God! Is this a new iPhone?” |
Same here. | I agree. | “I can’t attend the meeting tonight. I have other things to do.” “Same here.” |
What’s up? | How are you? | “Hi Jim! We haven’t seen each other in a long time. What’s up?” |
You bet! | Certainly. You are welcome. |
“Thank you for the sweater.” “You bet.” |
Slang Descriptors
Slang Words and Phrases |
Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
beat | Exhausted | “He was so beat after driving for eight hours.” |
bomb | Really good | “The food last night was so bomb!” |
bummer | A disappointment | “It’s such a bummer you could not go with us yesterday.” |
cheesy | Silly | “That was such a cheesy excuse. Who would believe that? |
chill | Relax | “You’ve got to chill. They’re going to be fine.” |
cool | Fantastic | “It’s not going to rain today.” “Cool.” |
corny | Lame | “Your joke is corny. No one laughed.” |
epic | Awesome | “The trip was so epic! I’m going there again!” |
flakey | Indecisive | “Let’s not trust her; she tends to be flakey.” |
hot | Attractive | “That actor is hot.” |
It sucked. | Used to refer to someone or something that is not good or of poor quality | “The movie sucked. Don’t watch it.” |
laid-back | Calm or relaxed | “He’s a laid-back person. Everyone loves him.” |
lame | Opposite of fantastic | “The play was so lame. I wasted my time watching it.” |
ripped | Physically fit | “There’s no way I would win against him; he’s so ripped!” |
shady | Suspicious or questionable | “I wouldn’t trust her; she’s shady.” |
sick | Awesome | “These sunglasses are sick!” |
sweet | Fantastic | “The professor has agreed to postpone the exam.” “Sweet.” |
Slang for People & Relationships
Slang Words and Phrases |
Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
babe | A term of endearment | “Hey babe!” |
chick | A young woman or a girl | “That chick is funny!” |
dump | To put a stop to a romantic relationship | “She dumped him over a silly matter.” |
ex | A former partner or spouse | “I am friends with my ex.” |
getting hitched | About to get married | “I can’t believe you’re finally getting hitched.” |
party animal | Someone who loves to party | “He was a party animal before he got married.” |
turn-off | Something that makes one feel repulsed | “He’s such a show-off; it’s a turn-off.” |
tying the knot | About to get married | “One of my closest friends is tying the knot in October.” |
whiz | An extremely smart or intelligent person | “She is a whiz! She was able to solve the puzzle in seconds.” |
Slang Words and Phrases |
Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
A blast | A very exciting and fun event | “I had a blast at the concert! The band was amazing!” |
booze | Alcoholic drinks | “Booze isn’t allowed at the party.” |
flick | A movie | “I don’t like horror flicks.” |
grub | Food | “Do you want to order some grub later?” |
hang out | To spend time with other people | “Let’s hang out sometime next week!” |
I’m down. | I will join. | “He’s down for basketball.” |
I’m in. | I will join. | “I’m in for pizza and drinks.” |
show up | To appear at an event or gathering | “I’m not sure if he will show up. He’s not answering my calls.” |
wasted | Intoxicated | “I was so wasted last night I don’t know what time the guests left.” |
Slang for Actions
Slang Words and Phrases |
Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
ace | To be good at something | “He aced his piano lessons.” |
bail | To not join | “I would have to bail from bowling tonight; I have an urgent matter to attend to.” |
busted | To be seen or caught while doing something improper | “You’re busted! I am going to tell mom and dad.” |
cram | To devote a lot of time preparing and studying before a test | “She always crams every time there is an exam.” |
crash | To sleep | “He was so tired; he’s going to crash soon.” |
ditch | To leave something or someone, a location, or an item behind | “She ditched her friends to watch a movie with him.” |
goof | To make a mistake | “The newly-hired employee goofed and messed up the company’s finances.” |
lighten up | To relax | “You have to lighten up; we’ll be landing soon.” |
pig out | To eat a lot | “I was pigging out lately; I think I’ve gained four pounds.” |
score | To obtain what is desired | “I scored a pre-loved purse at a thrift shop for only $5!” |
screw up | To make a mistake | “He is in big trouble for screwing up the company’s budget.” |
wrap up | To end something | “Let’s wrap up this meeting and carry on with our work.” |
Modern American Slang Words
Slang Words and Phrases |
Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
freebie | Something that is free | “The shop offers freebies for customers who will purchase more than $20.” |
lemon | A bad purchase | “That painting is a lemon. You could have bought it at half of its price at other shops.” |
shades | Sunglasses | “I need new shades.” |
shotgun | The passenger seat in the front | “Can I sit shotgun?” |
in no time | Very soon | “The meeting will end in no time.” |
buck | A dollar | “Do you have three bucks I can borrow?” |
rip-off | A purchase that was way too expensive | “That belt is a rip-off; it’s a fake.” |
Using British Slang Words and Phrases
Whether you prefer watching The Royal Family or binge-watching series like ‘Doctor Who,’ you have come across some strange and fantastic British English terminology.
Different areas can have their own distinct lingo within the same country or even within the same city.
It is no surprise, then, that slang in the city of London alone, let alone between other English-speaking countries in general, can be so disparate.
Here is a list of some of the most common slang words and phrases in British English.
Everyday Slang Words
Slang Words and Phrases |
Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
blimey | An expression of surprise | ‘Blimey that was an amazing performance!” |
bog roll | A toilet paper | “Please buy some bog rolls when you go grocery shopping.” |
buggar all | Nothing at all. | “I’ve done buggar all today.” |
Cheerio! | Goodbye! | “Cheerio! I have to go!” |
Cheers! | Thank you! | “Cheers to all of you for coming tonight!” |
crack on | To get going or continue doing something | “It’s getting dark, I better crack on.” |
gutted | To be disappointed | “I’m so gutted when the Lakers lost.” |
innit | Short for ‘Isn’t it?’ | “It’s raining, innit?” |
quid | British pounds | “I need some quids to ride the bus.” |
soz | Short for ‘sorry’ | “I forgot it’s your birthday. Soz.” |
Slang Descriptors
Slang Words and Phrases |
Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
barmy | A crazy idea | “Spending a hundred bucks for a meal is barmy!” |
bloody | Used to mean ‘really’ or ‘extremely’ | “That’s a bloody brilliant idea!” |
cheeky | Rude and disrespectful | “He is known for being cheeky.” |
chuffed | Happy and delighted | “My parents are chuffed that I am finally graduating.” |
daft | Silly | “That is such a daft idea. Let’s not do that.” |
dead | Used to mean ‘really’ or ‘extremely’ | “He is dead serious about the plan.” |
dodgy | Suspicious or questionable | “She is acting a little dodgy.” |
knackered | Tired | “My dad is absolutely knackered after building the treehouse.” |
minging | Something disgusting or gross | “The way you’re saying it, it looks like it’s such a minging scene to witness.” |
mug | Gullible | “She is a mug; I’m pretty sure you can convince her.” |
Slang for People & Relationships
Slang Words and Phrases |
Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
bev | A handsome man | “He is a bev.” |
bloke | A man | “He’s a good and decent bloke.” |
bruv | Friend or brother | “He’s my bruv back when I was at university.” |
grafting | Flirting | “They are totally grafting at each other.” |
lad | A young man | “That lad moved in just a few weeks ago.” |
sod off | To go away | “Will you please sod off? I’m studying.” |
Slang Words and Phrases |
Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
banter | To make jokes — generally about someone else, but all in good humor | “People who like to banter are well-liked.” |
bevvy | Short for beverages | “Would you serve us some bevvy, please?” |
buzzin’ | Tipsy or a little drunk | “I’m buzzin’ after only two bottles of beer.” |
cuppa | A cup of tea | “My manager invited me for a cuppa.” |
kerfuffle | A disagreement with someone | “He was sent to the dean’s office because he had a kerfuffle with one of the professors.” |
nosh | Food | “Those are really good nosh!” |
posh | Fancy | “They ate at a posh restaurant.” |
Slang for Actions
Slang Words and Phrases |
Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
gander | To look around | “They try to gander and see if they like the place.” |
gobsmacked | To be completely taken aback or astonished beyond belief | “The audience was gobsmacked when he started singing.” |
lost the plot | To become furious | “My mom lost the plot when she saw my younger sister’s mess.” |
nick | To steal | “He nicked those sweets for his younger sister.” |
take the piss | To be sarcastic | “Relax, and don’t get upset; I was just taking the piss.” |
tell porkies | To tell lies | “Do not dare tell porkies about what happened while I was not here.” |
throw a wobbly | To throw a tantrum, usually by adults or someone older | “He’s too old to throw a wobbly like that.” |
Modern British Slang Words
Slang Words and Phrases |
Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
fag | A cigarette | “Do you have some fags?” |
fiver | A five-pound note | “Do you have a fiver? I need to buy some sandwiches.” |
gaff | Home | “I’m heading gaff; I’m tired.” |
jiffy | A short period | “I’ll finish my homework in a jiffy.” |
kip | A power nap | “Let me take a kip real quick.” |
pissed | Drunk | “He’s totally pissed last night.” |
skint | Having no money | “She is now skint after investing in such a horrible business idea.” |
tenner | A ten-pound note | “Can you lend me a tenner?” |
Is it Appropriate to Use Slang Words in Academic Writing?
A good writer’s goal should be to explain ideas clearly; each paragraph should be easily understandable.
This implies that you must disregard the specific grammatical form, language, and, in general, the relationship between thoughts and expression forms.
Believe it or not, the respective stated thoughts may lose courage and strength due to inadequate language expression.
Therefore, if your writing is full of slang, it may contain specific ideas that are contradictory to others, and therefore, the outcome will be poor. It is essential always to be cautious.
Slang should never be used and should be avoided at all costs.
It is common to see academic writings with daily language or slang in today’s world. It is important to remember that technical language is formal and follows certain norms.
What you say in a conversation or in colloquial language may sound excellent, but it may sometimes be improper when written.
When you write, you should be mindful that your work will be read by others other than your teacher.
They could be from various countries, educational backgrounds, and so on.
Hence, you should be cautious in incorporating slang words and phrases so that everyone will understand your message.
Summary Table of the Most Common Slang Words and Phrases in English
Aside from the slang words and phrases mentioned earlier, there are still some that are worth learning and studying.
Here are some of them.
Slang Words and Phrases | Meaning | Example Sentences |
---|---|---|
axed | To get fired from a job | “My aunt was axed, and she’s now looking for a new job.” |
balling | To have a luxurious lifestyle | “Their family is now balling after winning the lottery.” |
beef | Conflict with someone | “They’ve had beef for over a decade.” |
bling | A flashy piece of jewelry | “It’s obvious he’s showing off his bling.” |
brick | Cold | “Put on some layers; it’s brick outside.” |
cabbie | A cab/taxi driver | “The cabby was friendly and funny.” |
cahoots | Working together secretly | “My friends were in cahoots with my parents when they planned for my birthday.” |
cold fish | An unfriendly person | “I wouldn’t approach her; she’s a cold fish.” |
cranky | Irritable | “He’s cranky because he’s getting old.” |
cringe | Frequently accompanied by a face or body expression expressing disgust or discomfort. | “He cringed when he saw them eat those foods.” |
crusty | Dirty; unclean | “The kitchen is crusty; you have to clean it.” |
deck | To knock someone down to the ground | “The police decked the man and handcuffed him.” |
dicey | Risky; unsafe | “Do not walk by yourself at night; it’s dicey.” |
diss | To exhibit disdain by saying or doing something demeaning | “The two neighbors dissed each other.” |
dork | Socially awkward | “I used to be a dork when I was in high school.” |
dunno | I don’t know. | Do you know what time the guests will arrive?” “Dunno.” |
elbow grease | Hard work | “The team could secure the championship because of a little elbow grease.” |
extra | Unnecessarily dramatic, extravagant, and exaggerated | “She wore and changed into three gowns during the party. She was so extra.” |
fib | A small innocent lie | “She told a fib to get out of trouble.” |
flex | To show off | “If you visit his social media accounts, you can see him flexing his travels.” |
flip-flop | To make an abrupt change in one’s mind or policies | “The committee seemed to be flip-flopping over who’s to blame.” |
fluke | A favorable outcome is due to luck rather than talent | “It was a fluke that he won the contest; many participants couldn’t make it to the venue on time.” |
for real | Used to speak truthfully and honestly | “He’s really coming tonight, for real!” |
fronting | Pretending to be good at something to impress someone | “She is fronting her Spanish to impress the judges.” |
G.O.A.T. | Short for Greatest of All Time | “Michael Jordan is the G.O.A.T.” |
garbage | Something that is of poor quality | “This project is garbage!” |
ghost | To stop communicating with someone | “Jim ghosted Jane after a few months of dating.” |
go nuts/bananas | To go crazy | “The crowd went nuts/bananas when the players started dancing.” |
guts | Courage | “Mindy didn’t have the guts to tell her relatives about what happened.” |
hella | Used as an adjective to indicate something that is exceptionally good | “She’s hella kind and friendly.” |
hooked | Addicted | “I’m currently hooked on perfumes.” |
hype | Excessive praise for a product or person | “Products are often overhyped.” |
in | fashionable; trendy | “Loop earrings are in back in the day.” |
just kidding | I’m just joking. | “Don’t take it seriously. He must just be kidding!” |
lit | Fantastic | “The game was totally lit! I’m sorry you didn’t watch it live!” |
loser | A disliked person | “He is such a loser.” |
mood | When one wants to say anything that is relatable | “Mark walking out of the event is such a mood.” |
nope | No! | Have you seen Sue today?” “Nope!” |
on fleek | Perfectly done | “The food at the party was on fleek!” |
real talk | When one wants to talk about anything serious | “We need to have a real talk. Come home early.” |
roast | Refers to instances in which someone is offended or insulted. | “He got roasted by his colleagues.” |
salty | When a person becomes agitated or enraged over a minor issue | “He left the event early after not getting the promotion. He is so salty.” |
shook | Shocked | “Oh my God, I’m shook! I need to watch the movie adaptation!” |
slay | A manner of expressing deep gratitude for someone who excels at something or completes a task | “She slays every performance!” |
stoked | Excited | “Everyone’s stoked for the new shop to open.” |
tea | A hot news | “Here’s the tea: the couple has money problems and is filing for bankruptcy.” |
throw shade | To negatively judge or say something terrible against another person | “She is throwing shade at her ex-husband.” |
wack | Disappointing; not able to meet expectations | “The movie is a complete wack.” |
what on earth | When you see something that you cannot identify | “What on earth is this?!” |
yep | Yes! | “Are you going to Mike’s party tonight?” “Yep!” |
Why Do We Have to Learn Slang Words and Phrases?
Slang words and phrases are an essential component of any language. Though they can sometimes be vulgar, they make a language more interesting and colorful.
Many people can understand them, not only inside a specific community, especially these days where the Internet can make something viral overnight.
Slang words and phrases draw us closer together while also enriching the language.
We hope that this post has enriched your vocabulary about the most common slang words and phrases and when to use them more effectively. Cheers!
Additional Reading — ENGLISH GRAMMAR
If you’re learning English, then you’ve got lots of things to master including phrasal verbs, idioms and of course, English slang words.
Native speakers use slang every day and that can make them hard to understand.
So, in this post, you’ll learn 79 common English slang words and expressions that will help you understand native speakers.
Understanding And Using English Slang Words
Slang words are informal words and expressions that native speakers use in their everyday conversations, especially among friends.
Some slang has entered the language thanks to the internet. Other slang terms are less fashionable these days, but you’ll still hear some people use them.
While it’s good to learn English slang words so you can understand native speakers or movies better, slang can be tricky to use. Some slang words are very informal or even offensive so you need to be careful when you use them.
Slang varies between countries and regions within countries. Often young people, especially teenagers use the latest slang and it might sound weird for an older person to use it.
Just be aware of these variations. And pay attention to the English slang words people you know use a lot. Copying what the English slang words they actually use will help you sound more authentic.
Let’s get started with ten of the most common English slang words. You’ll hear these English slang words all the time and you might even know some of them already.
1. Awesome
You’ll hear Americans, and plenty of other native speakers use this slang word all the time. It means “great” or “extremely good”.
Example: That movie was awesome – I’m going to go and see it again next week!
2. Bail
If you bail you stop doing something or leave a place or event before the end.
Example: There weren’t many people at the party so we bailed early.
3. Babe
This slang word refers to someone extremely attractive. But you can also use it to refer to your romantic partner, in the same way you would use “darling”.
Examples:
- Wow, what a babe!
- I love you babe – happy anniversary!
4. Cool
This word can have a similar meaning to “awesome” – very good, great. And it can also mean that something is fashionable and that other people admire it.
Examples:
- What a cool car!
- At school the cool kids ignored me.
5. Dude
You’ll hear “dude” all the time in American English – it means “man”.
Example: Who was that dude you were talking to last night?
6. Oh My God!
I’m sure you’ve heard this one before. You use it to emphasise how angry, shocked or surprised you are.
Example: Oh my God – what on earth happened here?
7. Pissed
In American English, “pissed” means “angry”, but in the UK it means drunk!
Examples:
- He’s going to be pissed when he finds out you borrowed his new car.
- What happened last night? I was so pissed I can’t remember anything!
8. Suck
If something sucks, then it’s bad.
Example: It sucks that you can’t come out with us tonight.
9. What’s Up?
This expression is the slang way to say “how are you?”. You’ll also see it spelled “wassup” or “whassup”.
Example: Hey what’s up dude? Long time no see!
10. You Bet
“You bet” is an informal way to say “you’re welcome” in US English.
Example:
A: Thanks for helping me with my homework.
B: You bet! Happy to help.
Slang To Do With Relationships
People usually use English slang words with people they’re close to, like friends or romantic partners. So it’s not surprising that many English slang words are about love and friendship.
11. Bae
You can use this English slang word to refer to your boyfriend or girlfriend. The letters ‘b’, ‘a’, ‘e’ stand for “before anyone else”.
Example: Hey bae, what are you doing tonight?
12. Bestie
Your bestie is your best friend.
Example: She used to be my bestie, but we don’t talk any more.
13. Bro
Use “bro” to address your male friends.
Example: Hey bro, what’s going on?
14. Crush
If you have a crush on someone, you really like them, but the feeling usually doesn’t last long.
Example: I had such a crush on your brother in the final year of high school.
15. Dump
This English slang word means to end a romantic relationship.
Example: I can’t believe he dumped me by text message!
16. Fam
Your fam is a close friend or even a group of close friends.
Example: My new bae is going to meet the fam tonight.
17. Ghosted
To end a relationship by cutting off communication, especially online communication.
Example: We used to WhatsApp each other every day and then she just ghosted me.
18. Hook Up
This slang word has two meanings. You can use it to talk about meeting friends, but it can also refer to starting a romantic relationship.
Examples:
- If you’re free later, do you want to hook up and go for a drink?
- A: So when did you two first hook up?
- B: At my bestie’s birthday party a couple of months ago.
19. Hang out
Use this slang word to talk about spending time with particular people.
Example: He hangs out at my place every afternoon.
20. Netflix and chill
This slang expression sounds like it’s about streaming a movie and relaxing right? But in fact, if you invite someone to “Netflix and chill”, you’re actually inviting someone over for romantic or sexual reasons, not to stream movies.
Example: Do you want to come back to my place to Netflix and chill?
21. Tight
People who are tight are in a close relationship and get on well.
Example: We used to be tight at school but we don’t speak so much nowadays.
Slang Abbreviations
Lots of English slang words are abbreviations that you’ll see in online communication like text messages or status updates on social media. Here are a few that you’ll see a lot.
22. AF
This abbreviation stands for “as f**k” and you use it for emphasis.
Example: That party was awesome AF.
23. BFF
This abbreviation stands for “best friends forever” and like “bestie” you use it to refer to your best friend.
Example: I can’t wait to go on holiday with my BFF.
24. GOAT
These letters stand for “greatest of all time”, meaning the absolute best at something. You usually hear this expression in relation to sports stars.
Example: Muhammad Ali was the original GOAT. *
*Apparently, the famous boxer, Muhammad Ali was the first person to refer to himself as the greatest of all time.
25. OG
These letters stand for “original gangster”, but nowadays this abbreviation is used to refer to someone highly respected in their field.
Example:
A: I’m having trouble with my spreadsheet – the numbers are all wrong!
B: You should talk to Amy, she’s the Excel spreadsheet OG!
26. OMG
Does this one sound familiar? It’s the abbreviation of “oh my God” that you saw earlier.
Example: OMG! You must be joking.
27. TBH
This internet abbreviation stands for “to be honest”. You’ll probably see it in text messages and other online communication.
Example: TBH, I don’t like your new bae.
28. YOLO
This slang abbreviation means “you only live once”. People often use it to justify risky behaviour.
Example: So I could have really hurt myself jumping from that high cliff, but hey, YOLO!
29. IRL
This internet slang term means “in real life”.
Example: I’m fed up with messaging. I want to meet you IRL.
Slang Adjectives
Many English slang words are adjectives that you can use to describe someone or something in positive or negative ways.
30. Basic
This slang adjective means that someone or something is boring, average or unoriginal.
Example: Her new bae is so basic.
31. Cringe / Cringeworthy
Something cringe is embarrassing or awkward. This slang word can also be a verb that means to feel very embarrassed.
Example: That movie was so cringe.
32. Cushy
This adjective means very easy and you’ll often see it with the word “job”.
Example: Where can I find a cushy job with a nice salary?
33. Dead
If a place like a nightclub is dead, then it means there’s not many people there and nothing interesting is happening.
Example: Why would you go out on Sunday night? All the bars and clubs are dead!
34. Dope
This English slang word can refer to illegal drugs. But when it’s an adjective, it means “very good”.
Example: That was a dope concert!
35. Hot
A hot person is a secually attractive one.
Example: His new girlfriend is really hot.
36. Killer
This is another adjective that means “extremely good”.
Example: That was a killer performance.
37. Lame
This adjective is the opposite of positive ones like “dope” or “killer”.
Example: That movie was so lame!
38. Lit
Here’s another positive adjective meaning that something is very good, exciting or enjoyable.
Example: You missed a lit party.
39. Low-Key
In a moderate or limited way. It can be a synonym for “somewhat” or “casually’.
Example: I’m low-key stressed about the test tomorrow.
40. Salty
If you’re “salty” then you’re resentful of a person or situation. In standard English, you would say “bitter”.
Example: She’s all salty because no-one liked her latest selfie that she spent hours posing for.
41. Shady
Shady people or things are questionable or suspicious.
Example: I don’t trust him – he seems kind of shady.
42. Sick
In slang, “sick” has quite a different meaning – it’s another way to say “very good” or “excellent”.
Example: Those were some sick dance moves!
43. Swag
So this word is actually a noun, not an adjective, but it’s slang for someone who has style or a lot of self-confidence, perhaps too much.
Example: He’s got some serious swag.
44. Sweet
You can use “sweet” to mean “very good”.
Example: Wow, that’s a sweet car!
45. Thirsty
Someone thirsty doesn’t need a drink – they want attention, especially sexual attention.
Example: There are so many thirsty people on social media sharing selfies.
46. Hangry
Hangry is a mixture of the words “hungry” and “angry” and refers to feeling annoyed when you haven’t had enough to eat.
Example: You haven’t eaten all day and it’s 4pm – no wonder you’re hangry!
47. Vanilla
In slang terms, “vanilla” is a bit like “basic” as it means something is plain or ordinary, not original.
Example: His personality is a bit vanilla don’t you think?
48. Wasted
This English slang word means “drunk”.
Example: Give me the keys – you’re wasted. There’s no way you can drive.
49. Woke
If you’re woke, then you’re aware of social justice issues such as racism or inequality.
Example: He’s so woke that our first date was at a demonstration!
Slang To Insult People
A I said at the start of this post, you need to be careful when you use some English slang words as they’re offensive. Here are a few examples.
50. Airhead
An “airhead” is a stupid person.
Example: I don’t know what they talk about together because his new girlfriend is a total airhead.
51. Bimbo
This is a rather offensive term for an attractive woman who isn’t very intelligent.
Example: She often plays bimbos in movies but she’s actually really smart in reality.
52. Chicken
Nothing to do with the bird when it comes to slang. A “chicken” means a “coward”.
Example: Are you coming with us or are you too much of a chicken?
53. Douche / Douchebag
A “douche” is someone who is obnoxious or offensive.
Example: You were a real douchebag to everyone last night. Were you wasted?
54. OK Boomer
This is a phrase that young people will say to mock and dismiss older people who express outdated ideas associated with the “baby boomer” generation i.e people born between 1946 and 1964.
Example:
A: If young people stopped spending all their money on lattes and avocado toast, they’d be able to pay for a house.
B: OK boomer
55. Jerk
Someone stupid, usually a man.
Example: He’s a real jerk – I can’t stand him.
56. Karen
“Karen” is a woman’s first name. In slang, a “Karen” is a middle-aged white woman who is rude and demanding, especially to staff at restaurants, bars, in shops etc.
Example:
A: That customer complained about me and asked to speak to the manager!
B: What a Karen!
57. Loser
If you call someone a loser, then you’re saying that you have no respect for them or a low opinion of them. This is often because the person is incompetent.
Example: Get away from me you loser!
58. Nerd
A nerd is usually a man who is socially awkward and more interested in technical things like computers.
Example: Why were you talking to him? He’s such a nerd!
59. Tool
This English slang word is a synonym for “jerk”, in other words, a stupid person.
Example: Did you see what he just did? What a tool!
Slang To Do With Work And Money
Work and money are important parts of our lives right? So that’s why there are lots of English slang words to talk about them.
60. Benjamins
This word is slang for a hundred dollar bill. Why? Because you can see the face of Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the USA, on these bills.
Example: Where did you get all those benjamins? Are you a drug dealer or something?
61. Buck
A buck is a slang word that means “dollar”?
Example: Could you lend me ten bucks?
62. Dough
This slang word simply means “money” and it’s a bit of an old-fashioned slang word.
Example: I’d love to come out with you guys tonight but I’ve got no dough.
63. Gig
A “gig” is slang for a “job”.
Example: How did the interview go? Do you think you’ll get the gig?
64. Goof Off
If you “goof off” then you avoid doing work or waste time.
Example: The boss caught us goofing off in the break room during our shift.
65. Grand
This English slang word means a thousand dollars.
Example: He got fired from a job where he made two hundred grand a year!
66. Peanuts
“Peanuts” means a small amount of money.
Example: I like working there but they pay you peanuts.
67. Rip-off
If something is a rip-off then it’s not worth the money you pay for it.
Example: Those concert tickets were a rip-off: $100 for a show that lasted 45 minutes!
68. Screw up
Here’s another English slang word that’s also a phrasal verb. If you screw (something) up, then you make a mistake.
Example: My boss is going to be pissed when he realises I screwed up half the orders.
69. Slack Off
“Slack off” means pretty much the same thing as “goof off”. Both of these slang words are also phrasal verbs in English.
Example: No slacking off today – we’re expecting a lot of customers.
Slang Contractions
Finally, let’s take a look at some slang contractions. These are different to regular contractions in English such as “I’m” or “she’ll” because they’re so much more informal.
You wouldn’t write these contractions usually, unless in a really informal context like texting a close friend.
But they’ll help you improve your listening skills. That’s because these contractions are based on the way native speakers pronounce words you already know in a fast, informal way.
70. I’mma
This contraction stands for “I am going to”
Example: I’mma kill you!
71. Dunno
This is the contraction of “I don’t know”.
Example:
A: What time will you get home?
B: Dunno
72. Gimme
This slang contraction is a mixture of the words “give” and “me”.
Example: Gimme a call later, after you finish work.
73. Gonna
“Gonna” is a blend of the words “going” and “to”. In fast speech, “to” can sound like “ta” and we’ll see some more examples like that below.
Example: My parents are gonna be so angry that I had a party while they were away.
74. Gotta
This slang contraction is made up of the words “got” and “to”. If you’ve “gotta” do something, then you have to do it.
Example: I’m sorry but I gotta go, I have a bus to catch.
75. Hafta
“Hafta” is the contraction of “have to” and has the same meaning as “gotta”.
Example: You’re gonna hafta leave now.
76. Kinda
The expression “kind of” means “somewhat” and in fast speech it usually sounds like “kinda”.
Example: It’s a weird book but I kinda linked it.
77. Outta
This slang contraction is a mixture of the words “out” and “of”.
Example: I gotta get outta the house more often.
78. Wanna
This informal contraction is a combination of the words “want” and “to”.
Example: I don’t wanna go out tonight.
79. Watcha
This slang abbreviation stands for “what are you”.
Example: Watcha doing?
Enrich Your English With English Slang Words
So there you have it – 79 common English slang words and expressions to help you understand casual conversations, internet language as well as movies and TV series.
As you’ve seen, slang varies over time and some slang words are becoming old-fashioned. Some are more recent and might not be around for long.
Slang can also teach you a lot about how society is evolving. A slang word like “OK Boomer” suggests that there are increasing tensions between different generations. So slang can even help you understand the culture of English-speaking countries better.
If you’re looking for the best way to master English slang words, while this list is a good start, you’ll learn slang more easily by applying the StoryLearning method and reading in English.
As you read short stories in English, especially modern ones with lots of dialogue between the characters, you’ll see the most common English slang words over and over again.
- I’ve managed to book the best seats at the theatre for us, this weekend!
- Wicked! Thank you. I’m really excited!
What do you think ‘wicked’ means? No, it doesn’t mean ‘evil’ or ‘bad’.
Believe it or not, ‘wicked’ is actually a slang term that means ‘Brilliant!’ or ‘Awesome!’
Slang is a type of jargon that originates from various small groups of people. They tend to come about from conversation, and people naturally use words that have a meaning for them, then over time, these words alter and become slang.
It is probably one of the hardest aspects of the English language to learn, because there are so many variations in each small town, let alone in different English-speaking countries!
People use slang to sound less formal. Slang is mainly used because it relaxes the mouth, and allows people to speak in a more comfortable way. It is a lot easier to use slang than ‘perfect English’, which is probably why it’s so common!
This blog post will show you some of the most popular slang terms, but this doesn’t cover all of them! There are just too many! Hopefully the list below will cover some of the most common ones that you might hear!
1. UNREAL
Something that is unbelievably cool or brilliant
- I love this party, it’s just unreal!
2. PROPS
This means respect, recognition
- I know he failed the test, but you’ve got to give him props for trying.
3. KUDOS
Another word for respect, recognition
- Kudos for organising this party. It’s brilliant!
4. BOTTOM LINE
The main point
- The bottom line is we just don’t have enough money to make it work.
5. DISS
When a person disrespects someone else
- Stop dissing her behind her back. Show some respect!
6. DIG
To really like something
- Hey, I dig your new style. Where did you buy that T-shirt?
7. BOB’S YOUR UNCLE
This is a well-used phrase in the UK. It is added to the end of sentences, and means something like and that’s it!
- How did you make this cake? It’s delicious!
- Well, I just mixed in the batter thoroughly, poured it into a cake pan, baked it for 30 minutes and Bob’s your uncle!
8. BUDGE UP
When you ask someone to move and make space for you
- I want to sit down too, could you budge up a little please?
9. ACE
This has two meanings, something that is awesome, really cool. Or to achieve something with perfection, really easily
- Ace! I just got a promotion at work!
- Robert aced his physics exam!
10. ALL RIGHT?
This means ‘hello, how are you?’
- All right?
- Good thanks, you all right?
11. FULL OF BEANS
This means to have loads of energy
- All the children were full of beans at the party today. I couldn’t get any of them to sit still!
12. BLATANT
Something that is really obvious
- She’s blatantly very annoyed, everyone can see it apart from you.
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13. PEAR SHAPED
This means something has become a disaster
- I was trying to organise a surprise birthday party for her, but it’s all gone pear-shaped!
14. PIECE OF CAKE
When someone is boasting or they think something is extremely easy to do, they would use this
- What did you think of the exam? I thought it was really difficult.
- No, it was a piece of cake!
15. BLIMEY
This is an exclamation of surprise
- Blimey, look at all this mess here! I’d only left the house for an hour, and look what you’ve done!
16. BOTCH
There are two ways of using this expression ‘to botch something up’ or ‘to do a botch job’. They both mean that the work done was not of a high standard, or was clumsy workmanship
- The builder did a terrible job on the roof. He just botched it up, and it still leaks every time it rains!
17. CHEERS
Used when drinking with friends to salute or make a toast (raise your glasses and clink them together)
- Cheers everyone! Happy birthday to John!
18. SMASHING
This means something is terrific, brilliant
- I had a smashing time on holiday, it was so much fun!
19. SOD’S LAW
This is another name for Murphy’s Law – whatever can go wrong, will go wrong
- I wore my pretty new dress, because it was a sunny day, but as soon as I stepped out of the house, it started raining, and I got completely soaked!
- Sod’s Law!
20. CHIN WAG
This means having a nice, long chat with someone. You can probably tell why!
- I saw Mary after such a long time yesterday! We had a lovely chin wag together, like the good old days.
21. CHUFFED
Used when someone is really pleased about something
- My mum bought me a fantastic car when I passed my driving test. I was chuffed to bits!
22. CRAM
This means to study hard in a very short period of time
- I was so busy with my family before the exam, that I only had three days to cram in all the revision work!
23. NICE ONE
Can be used when someone does something particularly impressive
- I published my first book last year, and I’ve already started working on the sequel!
- Nice one! You’re doing really well.
24. CRIKEY
An exclamation of surprise
- I went shopping today! (comes in with lots of bags)
- Crikey! Have you spent all of our savings??!!
25. DEAR
Something that is expensive
- I avoid going shopping into the town centre nowadays, everything is so dear!
26. FAFF
This is when someone procrastinates, or wastes time wondering around
- Come on we have to go now. Stop faffing around, we’re going to be late!
Check your Grammar ››
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27. DO
Another word for a party
- Are you going to Lizzie’s birthday do next week?
28. FLOG
To sell something
- I managed to flog my car for a really good price!
29. FORTNIGHT
Two weeks. This comes from an abbreviation of ‘fourteen nights’
- I’ve been really ill for the past fortnight, and still haven’t recovered.
30. GOBSMACKED
This means amazed (your gob is your mouth, and if you smack your gob, it would be out of amazement!)
- I can’t believe I passed that exam! I thought I was going to fail, I’m completely gobsmacked!
31. SPLASH OUT
When you spend far too much money
- I wanted to give Sarah a special treat for her birthday, so I splashed out on a very romantic weekend away.
32. GRUB / NOSH
Both these words mean food
- I’m going to get some grub for myself from the local takeaway. Do you want anything?
33. BEE’S KNEES
Something or someone fabulous, spectacular
- You should see my new sound-system, it’s the bee’s knees!
- I don’t like Harvey very much, he thinks he’s the bee’s knees!
34. GUTTED
When someone is really upset or disappointed
- I’m so gutted I failed my driving test, again!
35. PEANUTS
When something is cheap, financially low
- I hate my job. I have to work such long hours, and I get paid peanuts.
- You should buy your clothes on-line. You can find some great designs for peanuts!
36. HAGGLE
To argue over, and try to negotiate the price of something you want to buy
- The last time I went shopping with my mum, she was haggling for something that was already really cheap!
- I managed to haggle the price of this shirt down by 25%!
37. JOLLY
You might hear people use this in all sorts of ways, but basically it means ‘very’. So “jolly good” would mean ‘very good’
- Don’t worry, I will pay you back before the end of this month.
- I should jolly well think so!
38. THROW A SPANNER IN THE WORKS
This is an expression that means to wreck something
- I managed to keep the surprise a secret, right up until the day before my sister’s birthday, then he threw a spanner in the works by telling her!
39. KIP
A short sleep, forty winks, a nap, a power nap, or a snooze.
- Why don’t you try and have a kip before everyone gets here? You won’t have time to rest later.
40. WIND UP
This has a couple of meanings. If something you do is a ‘wind up’ it means you are making fun of someone – you could be called a wind-up merchant if you do this.
However, if you are ‘wound up’ it means you are annoyed.
- John really is a wind-up merchant, but the girl he was picking on was so gullible!
- I was just winding her up for fun, but she took offence to it and got really angry!
41. MATE
This means friend, chum, pal, or buddy.
- I’m going to the cinema with my mates tonight.
42. NOT MY CUP OF TEA
This is a common saying which means that something is not to your liking.
- I don’t really like this sort of music. It’s just not my cup of tea.
43. PORKIES
This means telling lies. It comes from cockney rhyming slang. Short for ‘porky pies’, meaning ‘pork pies’, which rhymes with lies!
- Don’t listen to her, she’s telling porkies!
44. ROW
This means an argument (rhymes with ‘cow’)
- My brother had a huge row with his girlfriend yesterday. He’s really upset!
45. DONKEY’S YEARS
If someone says ‘I haven’t seen you in donkey’s years’, it means they haven’t seen you for a very long time!
- Hi Sarah! What a surprise to see you here. I haven’t seen you in donkey’s years! How have you been?
46. EASY PEASY
A childish term for something very easy
- I could make that for you, if you like? It’s easy peasy!
47. SORTED
When someone asks you about a problem you have already fixed, you could say this.
You can also say “get it sorted”, when you are telling someone to get on with something they have to do.
- What’s happening about that roof leak then?
- Oh that’s sorted now. I found a really good builder to do the job.
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48. STROP
If someone is sulking or being particularly miserable, you would say they are ‘being stroppy’, or ‘throwing a strop’
- Janet would you please cheer up? It’s your birthday, don’t be so stroppy!
49. CHEERIO
This is a friendly way of saying goodbye
- Right, I have to go now, see you soon. Cheerio!
50. WANGLE
This is used to say some people have all the luck
- I can’t believe he managed to wangle an upgrade on their airline seats, AND the honeymoon suite in their hotel!
51. BLINDING
If something is a blinding success, it means it was awesome, brilliant
- They had a blinding party after their wedding ceremony. Everyone had such a great time!
52. WONKY
If something is shaky or unstable, you might say it is wonky.
- I can’t eat my dinner at this table. It’s wonky and won’t stop wobbling!
53. ZONKED
If someone is zonked or ‘zonked out’ it means they are totally knackered, or exhausted
- He had a lot of fun at his birthday party earlier, but he’s completely zonked out now!
54. DODGY
If someone or something is a bit dodgy, it is not to be trusted.
- I saw a few dodgy-looking people standing around along that quiet street near our house, so just to be on the safe side, I notified the police.
- This food looks a bit dodgy, it might have passed its expiry date. I don’t think we should eat it.
55. LEG IT
This is a way of saying ‘run’ or ‘run for it’
- I went out on Halloween night, and someone jumped out from behind a bush to scare me. I was so frightened, that I just legged it all the way back home!
So there you go. Now you have a long list of slang words that you can familiarise yourself with, and try to remember! If you’re going to England or another English-speaking country, you might feel a bit more prepared to make conversation, if you’ve gone through this list!
Сленг, сокращения, идиомы
Сленг (от англ. slang) — терминологическое поле, набор особых слов или новых значений уже существующих слов, употребляемых в различных человеческих группах (профессиональных, социальных, возрастных и иных).
В отличие от просторечных выражений сленг активно используют в своей речи и образованные люди, представители определённой возрастной или профессиональной группы. Часто этим как раз и подчёркивается принадлежность к определённой группе людей. Общеизвестный пример — молодёжный сленг.
У лингвистов нет простого и четкого определения сленга, но они согласны с тем, что это постоянно меняющееся языковое явление, присутствующее в каждой субкультуре мира. В английской лексикографии термин «сленг» получил широкое распространение приблизительно в начале XIX века.
Понятие «сленг» смешивается с такими понятиями, как «диалектизм», «жаргонизм», «вульгаризм», «разговорная речь», «просторечие». Сленг отличается от разговорных и жаргонных терминов из-за его специфического социального контекста. В отличие от просторечных выражений, сленг активно используют в своей речи и образованные люди, представители определённой возрастной или профессиональной группы. Часто этим как раз и подчёркивается принадлежность к определённой группе людей.
Хотя разговорные выражения и жаргонизм могут показаться сленгом, потому что они относятся к определенной группе, они не обязательно соответствуют одному и тому же определению, поскольку не представляют собой особой попытки заменить общий лексикон стандартного языка. Разговорные выражения считаются более приемлемыми и более ожидаемыми в стандартном использовании, чем сленг, а жаргон часто создается для обсуждения аспектов конкретной области, которые не учитываются в общем лексиконе.
Однако эта дифференциация не всегда применяется лингвистами; термины «сленг» и «жаргон» иногда рассматриваются как синонимы, а сфера применения «жаргона» иногда расширяется.
Часто бывает трудно отличить сленг от разговорной лексики и даже лексики литературного уровня, потому что сленг со временем обычно становится общепринятым и включается в словари.
Многие слова и обороты, начавшие своё существование как сленговые, в настоящее время прочно вошли в литературный язык (например, в русском языке: «шпаргалка», «шумиха» и пр.)
Тем не менее, общий тест на то, является ли слово сленговым или нет, заключается в том, будет ли оно приемлемым в академической или юридической среде, поскольку и то, и другое является сферой, в которой стандартный лексикон считается необходимым, и / или был ли термин введен в Оксфордский словарь английского языка в случае английского сленга.
Идиома (от греческого idios — «собственный», «свойственный») — лингвистический термин, обозначающий выражение (оборот речи), употребляющееся как единое целое; фразеологическое сращение.
Характерным для идиомы является то, что значение ее не равно значению ее составных элементов: значение выражения «спустя рукава» не связано со значениями отдельных слов «спустить» и «рукава».
Выделяется несколько типов идиом – лексическая (сочетание слов: сделать ноги – убежать, орать во всю ивановскую – громко кричать), морфологическая (слово, части которого утратили смысловую функцию: чернила от чёрный, бельё от белый) и синтаксическая (конструкция, значение которой определяется только в целом: Ну и народу! Проси хоть не проси). Идиомы возникают при частом употреблении сочетания, из-за утраты связей между компонентами. Обычно идиомы имеют слитное значение и в целом реализуют общую тенденцию языка к образованию простых знаков на основе составных.
Как правило, идиомы очень сложно перевести сохранив их смысл, если только не использовать различные слова заменители. Для понимания таких оборотов необходимо знать особенности языка, литературы и культуры конкретной страны.
▨ Дополняющие материалы: — Популярные английские сокращения и аббревиатуры
200+ популярных выражений английского сленга
В таблице приведены наиболее употребительные слова и выражения английского сленга. Современный английский сленг с переводом
1 | Abs | stomach muscles | кубики (на животе (пресс) |
2 | Ace | туз, главный козырь или веский довод, а также ас, мастер своего дела | нечто потрясающее, действительно крутое, а также безупречное исполнение какого-либо действия (на высший балл, то есть на оценку «a») |
3 | Aight | все в порядке | сокращение от слов all right. |
4 | Ain’t | is/are/am not | по сути, это просто сокращенный глагол «to be» с отрицанием (am/is/are not =ain’t) |
5 | All right? | Используется в качестве приветствия | Как дела? Как оно? Как жизнь? |
6 | All-ears | to listen attentively | весь внимание |
7 | Amigo | friend (from Spanish) | друг |
8 | Antifreeze | alcohol | алкоголь, бухло |
9 | Argy–bargy | Используется в основном для того, чтобы показать нелепость происходящего. | дурацкий спор или стычка |
10 | Awesome | Положительное значение, эмоция восхищения и восторга | офигенный, классный, потрясный |
11 | B.O. | body odor | телесный запах |
12 | Bae | Это смесь двух выражений – «Baby»(«Детка») и «Before anyone else» («Впереди всех остальных») | любимый (любимая), детка |
13 | Bail | to leave | слиться, уйти |
14 | Ball | a testicle | яйцо (гениталии) |
15 | Baltic | очень ветреная погода | |
16 | Bang to rights | равносильно «dead to rights». | взять с поличным, прижать к стенке, взять за жабры, поймать на месте преступления. |
17 | Bants | [bænts]. сокращенная версия «banter» | означает добродушно подшучивать, стебаться с друзьями или просто знакомыми, обмениваться приколами |
18 | Barf | to vomit | блевать |
19 | Barmy | придурошный | Так говорят о человеке, который странно себя ведет («чудила»). Также можно употребить в отношении чего-то глупого и странного, дурацкого поступка, |
20 | Bazillion | an infinite number of something | куча, навалом |
21 | Beans | money | тубрики, деньги |
22 | Bee’s knees | нечто удивительное, выходящее за рамки привычного | |
23 | Biggie | something important | нечто важное |
24 | Binge-watch | «Binge» + «Watch» | просмотр большого количества эпизодов сериала без перерыва |
25 | Blatant | нечто явное, очевидное | |
26 | Blimey | по одной из версий, искаженное «Blind me!» (Чтоб я ослеп!) | восклицание удивления, изумления |
27 | Blinding | великолепный, потрясающий | |
28 | Blow | to spend or waste money | угрохать, спустить |
29 | Bollocks | чушь, ерунда | |
30 | Bonkers | сумасшедший | |
31 | Booty | a butt | задница |
32 | Booze | alcohol | выпивка, алкоголь, бухло |
33 | Botch | to botch something up или to do a botch job | топорная работ, работа спустя рукава |
34 | Bottom line | нижняя (итоговая) линия | суть, самое главное |
35 | Bounce | На сленге так говорится о факте ухода. | уходить, свалить |
36 | Brass Monkey | дословно переводится как «медная обезьяна». | жуткий холод |
37 | Broad | girl, woman | бабёнка, телка |
38 | Buck | dollar | американский доллар. |
39 | Budge up | просьба подвинутся | подвигать(ся), сдвигать(ся) |
40 | Bug | to agitate, disturb | доканывать, капать на мозги |
41 | Bugger all | ничего вообще, «нифига» | |
42 | Butter face | Страшненькая | звучит как but her face .., используется обычно когда говорят о девушке, хорошо сложенной, но с некрасивым лицом |
43 | Cash | money | наличные деньги |
44 | Cheerio | Пока! До свидания! | дружеское «до свидания» |
45 | Cheesy | cheap, tacky | дешёвый, убогий, безвкусный, вульгарный |
46 | Chick | girl, woman | тёлка, девушка, цыпочка |
47 | Chill out | to relax | расслабиться |
48 | Chill | расслабление, релакс | |
49 | Chin wag | «Chin» – «подбородок», «Wag» – «кивать»; то есть, беседа, при которой собеседники кивают друг другу в знак понимания | долгая, приятная беседа |
50 | Chippy | место, где продают fish&chips |
51 | Chuffed | To chuff — 1) пыхтеть; 2) ободрять, воодушевлять | быть чем-то очень довольным |
52 | Cock Up | обозначает ошибку, большей провал («налажать») | |
53 | Cool | good; excellent | клёво, круто |
54 | Cop | police officer | полицейский |
55 | Corker | что–то или кто–то круче, чем остальные, «молоток» | |
56 | Couch potato | a lazy individual | лежебока, увалень |
57 | Crack up | По-русски мы бы сказали «лопнуть со смеху». | заставить кого-то сильно смеяться |
58 | Cram | to study very hard | зубрить, заучивать наизусть |
60 | Crap | Негативный оттенок, пренебрежение, презрение | Чушь, ерунда |
61 | Crash | come uninvited | вломиться куда-л. |
62 | Crash (at) | to sleep some place | ночевать (у) |
63 | Creep | a weird person; an eerie person | придурок, отморозок |
64 | Cuppa | чашка чая | |
65 | Dear | дорого (о стоимости) | 3то слово можно перевести не только как «дорогая» (сердцу, например), но и использовать, говоря о чем-то слишком дорогом. |
66 | Dig | копать | ловить кайф, тащиться |
67 | Diss | высказываться в чей-то адрес неуважительно, пренебрежительно | |
68 | DIY | Аббревиатура от популярной фразы «Do It Yourself» | т.е. в буквальном переводе «сделай сам», а используется в широком контексте от домашнего ремонта до поделок. |
69 | Do you fancy …? | Синонимы: Like, wan | Хочешь… ? |
70 | Dodgy | Синонимы: Unreliable, suspicious, likely to break | Сомнительный, с подвохом, ненадежный, подозрительный, не заслуживающий доверия |
71 | Doofer | штуковина, штука | объект без названия, такая штука, штуковина, это самое. Обычно употребляется, когда не можешь вспомнить слово |
72 | Down to earth | practical realistic | прозаический, прагматичный |
73 | Drive up the wall | annoy, irritate | бесить, выносить мозг |
74 | Dude | Довольно старое слово, но актуально и по сей день. Наряду с dude американская молодежь часто использует слова bro, homie и другие. | чувак |
75 | Dump (smb.) | to break up | бортануть, бросить |
76 | Dunno | don’t know | я не знаю |
77 | Earworm | Дословно – «червяк в ухе» | Песня, «застрявшая» в голове |
78 | Easy peasy | Проще простого | |
79 | Epic fail | complete disaster | Провал, большая неудача, полный абзац |
80 | Ex | former mate | бывший, бывшая |
81 | Faff | от лат. pro — «на», crastinus — «завтра» | Тянуть резину, откладывать дела на потом |
82 | Fail | Слово перекочевало в русский язык как фейл. | неудача |
83 | Fam | Семья | |
84 | Feel blue | to feel sad | хандрить; унывать |
85 | Fishy | questionable | сомнительный; неправдоподобный |
86 | Flog | сбывать, продавать что-либо | |
87 | For real | Обычно задается как вопрос:, типа — в натуре? | удивление |
88 | Fortnight | two weeks | 2 недели |
89 | Fortnight | Дословно – «14 ночей» | Две недели |
90 | Full of beans | полный бобов | энергичный, заводной |
91 | Geek | a nerd, a dork | ботан |
92 | Give a ring | call | позвонить |
93 | Go dutch | each person paying his own expenses | заплатить за себя |
94 | Goat | Это не «коза», это аббревиатура от «Greatest of all times» | Величайший из всех времен |
95 | Gobsmacked | «Gob» – «рот», «smack» – «ударять»; то есть, человек хлопает себя рукой по рту от сильнейшего удивления | Крайне удивленный, ошарашенный |
96 | Gonna | going to | собираться |
97 | Gotta | have got to, have to | должен |
98 | Gross | Американский аналог британского minging. | мерзкий, противный, неприятный |
99 | Grub / nosh | оба слова обозначают еду на скорую руку, перекус | |
100 | Gutted | от глагола «to gut» — потрошить | когда кто-то сильно расстроен или опустошен, разочарован |
101 | Haggle | сбивать цену, торговаться (особенно по мелочам) | |
102 | Hampsteads | зубы | |
103 | Hang out | to spend time aimlessly | зависать, тусить |
104 | Hang-over | headache caused by drinking excess alcohol | похмелье |
105 | Hard cheese | Сложная ситуация | |
106 | Hit on | to ask out, flirt | клеиться, подъезжать, подкатывать |
107 | Hit the books | to study | засесть за учебу |
108 | Hit the road | leave | уходить, проваливать |
109 | Hit the sack | go to sleep | давить на «массу», задрыхнуть |
110 | Hold your horses | to calm oneself, to relax, to stop | подожди, не суетись |
111 | Holla | дать знать о чем-то | Обычно употребляется американцами как высказывание намерения сделать что-то. Еще можно использовать как неформальное приветствие (Holla!) или в значении «позвонить»: |
112 | Homie | брат по духу | Так американцы говорят о «своих ребятах», корешах и братанах. |
113 | Hoover | Синоним: Vacuum cleaner | Пылесос |
114 | How come … ? | Синоним: How did it happen that … ? Why … ? | Как так получилось, что … |
115 | Hyped | exited | в предвкушении |
116 | In no time | very soon | быстро, в два счёта |
117 | Jack up | raise, increase | повышаться; расти |
118 | Jerk | болван | Так американцы говорят о глупом, раздражающем человеке. |
119 | John hancock | your signature | собственноручная подпись |
120 | Jolly | Очень | это слово используют в самых разных ситуациях, но обычно оно означает «очень» («jolly good» — «очень хорошо»). |
121 | Jones | craving, burning desire | очень сильная потребность, желание чего-либо |
122 | Just plain | clearly; simply | попросту |
123 | Kip | Также глагол, обозначающий «вздремнуть ненадолго». | короткий сон |
124 | Knackered | Синоним: Tired | Измотан, очень устал, без сил |
125 | Knees up | Вечеринка | весёлая неформальная вечеринка; попойка |
126 | Knock | to criticize someone or something | критиковать; осуждать |
127 | Knock it off | to stop doing something that annoys | кончай базарить! |
128 | Knockout | a very attractive person, usually female | красавчик; красотка |
129 | Kudos | от греческого kydos («признание» | браво, респект |
130 | Lame | Используется как прилагательное для описания чего-то совсем не крутого и стремного. | отстойный |
131 | Lighten up | to be less serious about something | уймись, остынь |
132 | Lit | Новое слово, чтобы выразить что-то ошеломительное, гораздо сильнее по эмоциональной окраске, чем просто cool или crazy. | что-то очень крутое |
133 | Lookalike | «Look» + «Alike» | Двойник, человек, очень похожий на другого |
134 | Looker | good looking person | красотка, красавец |
135 | Lost The Plot. | “потерял сюжет” | говорится при описании действий человека, ведущего себя иррационально/неразумно и возмутительно (слететь с катушек) |
136 | Mate | приятель, друг, напарник, товарищ, сосед по комнате | |
137 | Meh | Неинтересный, ничего из себя не представляющий, никакой | |
138 | Miffed | расстроенный или обиженный; оскорбленный; вне себя | |
139 | Minger | урод, мерзость | Британцы используют это слово, чтобы назвать что-то противное или неприятное. От него происходит и прилагательное minging. |
140 | Mingle | Talk informally with different people | Пообщаться с несколькими людьми, смешиваться с толпой |
141 | Minted | быть в достатке, т.е. при деньгах | |
142 | Nada | nothing, none (from Spanish) | ничего |
143 | Nailed it! | Синоним: Got something exactly right, completed successfully. | Попал в точку! Отлично получилось! Часто используется с оттенком сарказма. |
144 | Nats | crazy | сумасшедший |
145 | Nice one | Nice — хороший, милый | так можно сказать, когда кто-то делает что-то особо впечатляющее |
146 | No worries | Показывает уверенность в себе | Без проблем, легко |
147 | Nuts | То же самое, что и crazy. | сумасшедший |
148 | Old lady | wife | жена |
149 | Old man | father | старик (отец) |
150 | Oops! | Oh, exclamation of a mistake | ой!; ух!; ох! Блин! |
151 | Pass the buck | give the responsibility to someone else | свалить ответственность |
152 | Peanuts | Очень низкая цена или зарплата | |
153 | Pear shaped | Неправильно, наперекосяк, не по плану | |
154 | Petty | Человек, склонный делать из мухи слона, раздувать проблему | |
155 | Piece of cake | о деле, которое представляется говорящему легко исполнимым — как съесть кусок торта (пирога) | проще некуда, ерунда! |
156 | Pig out | to eat too much | обжираться |
157 | Piss off | make someone angry (American) | раздражать, злить, бесить |
158 | Plonk | дешевое вино | Обычное столовое вино, портвейн, одно из самых дешевых в своей категории. |
159 | Porkies | Ложь, неправда | |
160 | Pre sci | Предварительный экзамен | |
161 | Props | proper recognition , proper respect | выражение уважения, признания |
162 | Quid | Синоним: Pound sterling | Обозначение фунта, когда называют цену |
163 | Raincheck | Словосочетание пошло от возможности обменять билет на спортивный матч в случае дождя. | просьба перенести что-то на другое время |
164 | Ret | Сигарета | |
165 | Ride shotgun | to sit next to the driver | ездить на переднем сидении |
166 | Row | ссора | Глагол можно перевести как «поссориться» или «повздорить». |
167 | Rumpy–pumpy | секс, «шуры–муры», «шпили–вили». | |
168 | Salty | Американцы называют кого-то «соленым» на сленге, когда хотят сказать, что человек обижен или «дуется». | обиженный на что-то, злой |
169 | Sauce | Уверенный в себе, успешный человек | |
170 | Savage | Брутальный, крутой | |
171 | Screw up | to mess up | накосячить, облажаться |
172 | Scrummy | термин, используемый для описания чего-то очень вкусного, от которого слюнки текут | что-то очень вкусное |
173 | Shattered / Knackered | Невероятно уставший, измотанный, без сил | |
174 | Shoot the breeze | to chat | болтать ни о чем |
175 | Shorty | a very attractive female | красотка |
176 | Sick | awesome | клево |
177 | Skint | быть на мели | на мели, без гроша |
178 | Skive (off) | говорится, когда кто-то попытался симулировать болезнь, чтобы не пойти на работу/учебу (сачкануть) | отлынивать |
179 | Slay | Приятно удивить, впечатлить | |
180 | Smashing | разящий, сокрушительный, потрясающий | |
181 | Sod’s Law | Произошло от разговорного sod, что означает «бедолага». | закон подлости |
182 | Sorted | так говорят о решенной проблеме (sorted problem). | Решить проблему — «to get it sorted». |
183 | Spaced out | disoriented | рас-сосредоточенный |
184 | Spill the beans | reveal, tell | слить информацию |
185 | Splash out | дословно — «выплеснуть(ся) | потратить слишком много денег |
186 | Stan | Фанат, буквально помешанный на своем кумире | |
187 | Staycation | «Stay» + «Vacation» | Отпуск, проведенный в родном городе |
188 | Stroppy | Бука, злюка | |
189 | Stuffed | Наевшийся до отвала | |
190 | Suck | Употребляется как глагол. Что-то вроде «я плох в этом». | отстой |
191 | Suh! / Hey! / Yo! | Привет! | |
192 | Swag | Стильный, модный, клевый | |
193 | Sweet | good; excellent | Здорово, отлично, клевая |
194 | Take a raincheck | to do something another time | откладывать на будущее, переносить |
195 | Take for granted | fail to properly appreciate | воспринимать как должное, не ценить |
196 | Taking the piss | Синоним: Tease, mock, make fun of someone. | Дразнить, подшучивать. Не перепутайте с “take a piss”, что переводится буквально =) |
197 | The joint | prison | тюряга |
198 | Tight | close to someone | дружеский; близкий |
199 | Tmi | too much information | Слишком много информации |
200 | To be amped | excited; enthusiastic | мега-активный, гиперактивный |
201 | To be beat | to be very tired or exhausted | умотаться |
202 | To be busted | to be caught in the act of wrongdoing | хватать с поличным |
203 | To be hooked on | to be addicted to | подсесть на |
204 | To be in | to be included in something | участвовать в чем-л. |
205 | To be ripped | to look very muscular and built | большой, мускулистый человек |
206 | To be ripped off | get a bad deal or have money stolen | ободрать |
207 | To give the cold shoulder | a show of deliberate indifference | демонстративно избегать |
208 | To have a blast | to have a great time | оттянуться, оторваться |
209 | To have a crush on | to be attracted to somebody | запасть на к.л. |
210 | To kick the bucket | to die | сыграть в ящик |
211 | To mess something up | to ruin something | провалить, налажать |
212 | To spot | to see something or find something | видеть, обнаруживать, засечь |
213 | Tosh | означает чепуху, вздор, чушь лажу или просто дичь | |
214 | Tough | strong, determined | крутой |
215 | Trash | to damage or wreck | испоганить что-л |
216 | Trash | Нечто неприятное, плохое, отстой | |
217 | Turn-off | Something repulsive | отбить охоту; отталкивать |
218 | Twenty four seven | Non-stop, around the clock | круглосуточно |
219 | Unreal | нереальный | нечто удивительное, потрясающее, впечатляющее. |
220 | Uptight | tense; nervous | скованный, зажатый |
221 | Wack | crazy person | псих, ненормальный |
222 | Wag off | попусту тратить время, прогулять, валять дурака | |
223 | Wangle | Хитрить, обводить вокруг пальца | |
224 | Warts and all | «как есть»; несмотря на недостатки | |
225 | Weird | От этого слова происходит также weirdo существительное, которое можно перевести как «чудак». | странный |
226 | What’s up? | how are you? bonjour | Как дела? Что новенького? |
227 | Wheels | a car or a bicycle | тачка, машина |
228 | Wicked | Изначально это слово переводится как «злой», но британцы часто используют его для описания чего-то очень крутого. | что-то потрясающее |
229 | Wierdo | strange person | чокнутый ненормальный |
230 | Wimp | a weak person | рохля, нюня, баба |
231 | Wind up | В прямом переводе слово означает «заводиться», но на сленге приколоться над кем-то, то есть намеренно говорить неправду ради шутки. | приколоться над кем-то, подшутить |
232 | Wonky | так говорят о чем-то неустойчивом | Неустойчивый, шатающийся, изменчивый |
233 | Wrap smth up | to settle the final details | завершить; закончить |
234 | Wtf | what the fuck? (used as an expression of incredulity or annoyance) | что за хрень |
235 | You are telling me | I know exactly what you mean | полностью согласен! |
236 | You bet | Of course, surely | ясное дело! |
237 | You can say that again | I agree with you completely | разумеется! ещё бы |
238 | Yummy | Так говорят о чем-то очень аппетитном и нереально вкусном. | вкусный |
239 | Zam | Экзамен | |
240 | Zonked | utterly exhausted | истощённый; изнурённый. В отпаде |
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500+ American Slang Words List with meaning and sentences. These slangs are very useful in your daily routine talks. But remember one thing these slang words are not for formal language. You cannot use these words in your professional meetings. It reflects nonprofessional behavior. You can use this slang only in group talks or on WhatsApp.
What are the Slangs?
Slang is a very informal language or some specific words used by a particular group of people. You’ll usually hear slang spoken more often than you’ll see it put in writing, though emails and texts often contain many conversational slang words. Though slang sometimes gets a bad rap for being inappropriate or incorrect, it’s also highly creative and shows that the English language is constantly evolving over time.
American Slangs Words List – Video
American Slang Words with Meaning and Sentences
Must check: Australian Slang Words for Food
Up (happy cheerful)
Lee has been up ever since he met his new teacher.
Meaning: happy and cheerful
Up for grabs
This is a sale. Everything is up for grabs.
Meaning: available.
Veg out
I want to veg out in front of the television this evening. Slang Words List in English
Meaning: relax and do nothing
Vibes
He really gives off good vibes.
Meaning: feelings
Zip
He knew zip about running the company.
Meaning: nothing
Spud
Do you want rice or spuds for dinner?
Meaning: potatoes
Square
My father looks square in his jacket.
Meaning: old-fashioned
Steamed up
Don’t get so steamed up over the issue.
Meaning: angry
Stink
This whole operation stinks.
Meaning: is repulsive
Straight
I want you to give me a straight answer.
Meaning: honest
Stressed
I am really stressed by all the recent world events.
Meaning: upset
Sucker
Don’t be a sucker.
Meaning: be deceived
Take a hike
I am tired of all you’re complaining about. Take a hike.
Meaning: leave
Taken
He was taken for all his money at the casino.
Meaning: cheated out of
Taking care of business
I have been taking care of business.
Meaning: doing what I have to do
Threads
Those look like expensive threads he is wearing.
Meaning: clothes
Tool around
I don’t want to tool around all night. It is time to go home.
Meaning: drive around
Totaled
My car was totaled in the accident with the garbage truck.
Meaning: completely wrecked
Run out of gas
The politician ran out of gas during the campaign.
Meaning: lost interest or momentum
Sack
When did you hit the sack last night?
Meaning: go to bed
Scam
Don’t lose your money in some kind of scam.
Meaning: swindle
Scarf
Since he hadn’t eaten in a week, he scarfed down everything on his plate.
Meaning: ate quickly
Schmuck
What a stupid schmuck.
Meaning: jerk
Screw around
If you screw around all day at this work, you will have to come back again.
Meaning: waste time
Screw up
If you screw up one more time, I will fire you.
Meaning: make a mistake
Sharp
He is very sharp with numbers
Meaning: intelligent
Shot
I’ll give the puzzle another shot.
Meaning: try
Shot down
Everyone shot down my idea at first but later agreed that it was a good idea.
Meaning: disagreed with
Slammer
The police threw them both in the slammer.
Meaning: jail
Smashed
Try not to get smashed at the beer party.
Meaning: intoxicated
Smoke eater
My father is a smoke eater.
Meaning: fireman
Split
It is time to split and go see the movie.
Meaning: leave
Spook
The cows were spooked by the howling of the wolves.
Meaning: frightened
Rap
We need to sit down and rap about a few things.
Meaning: talk about
Rat hole
When are you going to be able to move out of that rat hole?
Meaning: run-down place
Raw
The raw office workers were not getting much done.
Meaning: new
Ream someone out
The boss really reamed him out for his bad report.
Meaning: got angry with him
Red hot
Your idea is really red-hot.
Meaning: important
Repo
Hey, don’t repo my car. I will pay next week.
Meaning: repossess
Rinky-dink
The circus was really rinky-dink.
Meaning: inferior
Riot
The comedy program was a real riot.
Meaning: funny
Road hog
That driver is a road hog.
Meaning: takes up too much of the road
Rocks
Would you like your whiskey on the rocks?
Meaning: with ice
Rough time
We have had a rough time this winter.
Meaning: hard time
Rug
Is that a rug on his head?
Meaning: wig
Rug rat
My sister has three rug rats.
Meaning: Children
Rule
My wife rules the house.
Meaning: dominates
Run off at the mouth
He is always running off at the mouth.
Meaning: talking too much
Pop for something
It is my turn to pop for the doughnuts.
Meaning: buy
Pro
He is really a pro at his work.
Meaning: professional
Prod
Can you give me a gentle prod next week so I won’t forget?
Meaning: reminder
Psyched up
The players are really psyched up for the game on Friday.
Meaning: mentally ready
Psycho
She is a psycho. She should be in a hospital.
Meaning: mentally ill
Puke
I feel like I am going to puke.
Meaning: vomit
Push off
I am going to push it off now.
Meaning: leave
Put the moves on
You should give up trying to put the moves on her. She is married.
Meaning: seduce
Put-on
It was an elaborate put-on which I almost believed.
Meaning: deception
Quarterback
Who is going to quarterback the meeting?
Meaning: lead
Quick buck
I need to make a quick buck.
Meaning: some easy money
Rack
I have to hit the rack by ten or I’ll be tired in the morning.
Meaning: bed
Rack out
I am going to rack out for two hours.
Meaning: Sleep
Racket
There sure was a lot of racket outside last night.
Meaning: noise
Rag
I can’t believe we still get this same old rag.
Meaning: newspaper
Pad
Have you found a pad yet?
Meaning: a place to live
Pain in the neck
My wife’s best friend is a pain in the neck.
Meaning: annoying
Paper-pusher
My office is filled with paper pushers.
Meaning: bureaucratic office workers
Party animal
You’re too old to be a party animal.
Meaning: love parties
Party-hearty
We need to party-hearty because we just got a raise in salary.
Meaning: celebrate
Paw
Get your paws off of my body.
Meaning: hands
Peanuts
I am not going to work for peanuts.
Meaning: practically no money
Pickled
He gets pickled after only one beer.
Meaning: intoxicated
Piece of cake
Working on a computer for me is a piece of cake.
Meaning: easy to do
Pig
He is a pig at parties.
Meaning: eats too much
Pig out
Let’s go to the restaurant and pig out.
Meaning: eat a lot or overeat
Pit stop
Let’s make a pit stop at the next rest area.
Meaning: stop and go to the bathroom
Plastered
He drinks too much and is always plastered on the weekend.
Meaning: intoxicated
Pooped out
He pooped out after we started to do the hard work.
Meaning: quit
Pop
Shut up or I will pop you.
Meaning: hit
Mellow
You need to mellow out and enjoy life.
Meaning: calm down and relax
Meltdown
There has been a meltdown in the relationship between my parents and me.
Meaning: total collapse
Mickey mouse
The homework the teacher gave us was mickey mouse.
Meaning: nonsense and a waste of time
Move on someone
I am going to try to move on Sarah next Saturday.
Meaning: pick up and seduce
Mush
That is total mush and you know it.
Meaning: nonsense
Nark
Watch out for the narks in the airport.
Meaning: drug police
Neat
That was a neat idea that you had.
Meaning: good
Negative
There are too many negatives about the company merger.
Meaning: bad things
Nick
The police nicked the shoplifter as he was leaving the store.
Meaning: arrested
Nip
He took a nip out of the bottle.
Meaning: a quick drink
No sweat
It’s no sweat to have the report into you by Monday.
Meaning: no problem
Nuke
I’ll nuke our dinner in a few minutes.
Meaning: heat up in the microwave
Nuke
Does that attack plane have any nukes?
Meaning: nuclear weapons
Nut
I think that he is a nut.
Meaning: crazy person
Knock
Don’t knock it if you can’t do it any better.
Meaning: criticize
Knocked up
My dog gets knocked up once a year.
Meaning: pregnant
Knockout
Who was that knockout I saw you with last Friday?
Meaning: a stunning person
Knuckle sandwich
Shut up or I’ll give you a knuckle sandwich.
Meaning: punch in the mouth
Kook
Watch out for all the kooks in this neighborhood.
Meaning: strange people
Laid-back
You need to be more laid-back.
Meaning: calm and relaxed
Lame
That is really a lame excuse.
Meaning: an inadequate
Line
I have heard that line a million times.
Meaning: story
Loser
John is a loser.
Meaning: annoying and useless
Love handles
I exercise every day, but I can’t get rid of these love handles.
Meaning: rolls of fat around my stomach
Make waves
Try not to make waves around the office.
Meaning: cause trouble
Maxed out
I am maxed out at my work and need to rest.
Meaning: exhausted
Mean
He plays a mean violin.
Meaning: performs well on
Mega
I have mega amounts of tomatoes in my garden this summer.
Meaning: Large
Megabucks
He made megabucks when he sold his company.
Meaning: a lot of money
In deep
They are really in deep with each other.
Meaning: deeply involved
In the bag
Everything is in the bag. There is nothing to worry about.
Meaning: settled
Intense
This is a very intense situation we are discussing.
Meaning: serious
Jam
I am glad you got yourself out of that jam.
Meaning: trouble
Jerk someone around
Recently it seems like everyone is jerking me around.
Meaning: wasting my time and causing me trouble
Jock
My roommate is a jock for the basketball team.
Meaning: an athlete
John
The john really smells.
Meaning: bathroom
Joint
Where is the closest joint to here?
Meaning: cheap bar
Joint
He is good at rolling joints.
Meaning: marijuana cigarettes
Junkie
Sam is a junkie.
Meaning: drug addict
Just off the boat
He acts like he is just off the boat.
Meaning: naive
Keep one’s cool
He kept his cool when his house burned down.
Meaning: remained calm
Kegger
I hear there is a kegger at John’s house tonight.
Meaning: beer party
Kick
I get a kick out of watching him paint.
Meaning: enjoy
Klutz
He is a real klutz.
Meaning: stupid and clumsy person
High
The teenagers look high to me.
Meaning: intoxicated on drugs or alcohol
Hip-shooter
He is such a hip-shooter.
Meaning: always talking without thinking
History
I don’t have any idea where my old boyfriend is. He’s history.
Meaning: something in the past
Hit
Your proposal was a hit with the boss.
Meaning: successful
Hole up
I had to hole up for three days because the police were looking for me.
Meaning: hide
Honcho
The honcho says that we are going to have to give up two days of our vacation.
Meaning: boss
Hooker
Her clothes make her look like a hooker.
Meaning: prostitute
Hot
The police stopped them because they thought the car was hot.
Meaning: stolen
Huffy
I will do it soon so please don’t get huffy.
Meaning: angry
Hungry
If you are not hungry, you won’t get ahead in the business.
Meaning: eager to make money
Hustle
If you don’t hustle, we will be late again.
Meaning: hurry up
Hyped
The fans were all hyped up for the football game.
Meaning: excited
Hyper
Don’t get hyper about what she told you. You know it isn’t true.
Meaning: overexcited
I.D
Can you show me some I.D., please?
Meaning: identification
In
The tie you are wearing is really in.
Meaning: fashionable
Grubby
Those clothes are too grubby to wear to the party.
Meaning: unclean and untidy
Grungy
That is a really grungy jacket.
Meaning: dirty
Gut (stomach)
He got shot in the gut.
Meaning: stomach.
Gut (basic)
The gut issue is about what we are going to do now.
Meaning: basic
Guts (courage)
It takes a lot of guts to give the boss your true opinion.
Meaning: Courage
Hairy
That was a hairy plane trip. I am glad the storm is over.
Meaning: dangerous
Hammer
Put the hammer on the floor or we will be late for the wedding.
Meaning: accelerator
Hang it up
I have decided to hang up my teaching job.
Meaning: quit
Hang loose
Just hang loose for another few days.
Meaning: relax
Hang tough
We need to hang tough on our decision.
Meaning: stick with
Hardware
The police were surprised by all the hardware the gang members had.
Meaning: weapons
Have a buzz on
I had a buzz on after the third martini.
Meaning: was slightly intoxicated
Have good vibes
I have good vibes about our new secretary.
Meaning: feel good about
Have it all together
Recently I don’t have it all together.
Meaning: feel mental all there.
Heave
I heaved up on the floor.
Meaning: vomited
Glitzy
This is a pretty glitzy hotel to be staying in.
Meaning: fashionable
Go
Let me have a go at solving the problem.
Meaning: try
Go bananas
I am going to go bananas if I don’t have a vacation soon.
Meaning: go crazy
Go down
What is going down?
Meaning: happening
Goof
I am really a goof at times.
Meaning: fool
Goof up
I really goofed up when I painted my room green.
Meaning: made a serious mistake
Goofy
You are always acting goofy these days.
Meaning: silly
Gourd
Use your gourd to figure out what is happening.
Meaning: head
Grand
His salary is twenty grand.
Meaning: thousand dollars
Grass
Lots of students smoke grass in the dormitory.
Meaning: marijuana
Gravy
This job is pure gravy.
Meaning: easy money
Groovy
This music is groovy.
Meaning: pleasant
Gross
Picking your nose is really a gross habit.
Meaning: disgusting
Gross-out
The party was gross-out.
Meaning: disgusting time
Grub
Where is the best place to get some grub around here?
Meaning: food
Far-out
This music is really far-out.
Meaning: great
Fix
The addict needs another fix.
Meaning: a dose of drugs
Flaky
He is too flaky to do the work.
Meaning: unreliable
Flashback
At the wedding, he had a flashback of his old girlfriend.
Meaning: Remembered
Flick
I haven’t seen a flick in a long time.
Meaning: movie
Flip out
He flipped out when he heard that his mother had been killed.
Meaning: lost control
Flip side
What kind of music do you have on the flip side of the tape?
Meaning: another side
Fox
His older sister is a fox.
Meaning: very attractive
Foxy
She is a foxy lady.
Meaning: sexy
Freebie
The pillow was a freebie
Meaning: a free thing
Get into something
I got into gardening in high school.
Meaning: became seriously interested in
Get it
I listened to the joke twice, but I still don’t get it.
Meaning: understand
Get with it
If you don’t get with it, we will never finish this work.
Meaning: hurry up
Gig
I have a gig on Saturday night from 7:00 to 10:00.
Meaning: job
Ditch
I’ll ditch my younger brother with my grandmother.
Meaning: leave
Do a snow job on
Don’t try to do a snow job on me.
Meaning: deceive
Dope (stupid person)
He is such a dope.
Meaning: stupid person
Dope (Drug)
There are a lot of dope dealers around here.
Meaning: drug
Dork
He is such a dork.
Meaning: strange person
Dough
I need some dough before I can go Christmas shopping.
Meaning: money
Down
Let’s go to a bar and down a few beers.
Meaning: drink quickly
Drag
Doing homework on the weekend is a drag.
Meaning: boring
Dynamite
This drink is really dynamite.
Meaning: powerful; great
Earful
My grandmother gave me an earful about the neighborhood.
Meaning: a lot of gossip
Couch potato
He is a couch potato.
Meaning: a lazy person
Crack open a bottle
Let’s crack open a bottle for his birthday.
Meaning: open
Cram
I need more time to cram for the test.
Meaning: study hard
Cream
Our team creamed them badly.
Meaning: beat
Croak
I feel like I am going to croak.
Meaning: die
Cruise
The skier was cruising down the hill
Meaning: going very fast
Cuffs
He put the cuffs on the killer.
Meaning: handcuffs
Cushy
He has a really cushy job.
Meaning: easy
Cut
Could you cut my whiskey with a little water?
Meaning: dilute
Cut out
It is late. I have to cut it out.
Meaning: leave
Damage
Let’s get the bill and find out the damage.
Meaning: cost
Dead
This disco is really dead tonight.
Meaning: quiet
Deck
He was decked in the fight.
Meaning: knocked down
Deep pockets
Her boyfriend has deep pockets.
Meaning: is a good source of money
Dicey
Since the weather is a little dicey, I won’t go today.
Meaning: chancy
Catch some z’s
I need to catch some Z’s before I go on my trip.
Meaning: get some sleep
Cheesy
That is really a cheesy-looking outfit.
Meaning: cheap
Chicken
Don’t be a chicken.
Meaning: coward
Chintzy
That really was a chintzy present you got him.
Meaning: cheap
Chow down
I need to find a place to chow down.
Meaning: eat a lot
Clip
Watch out or they will clip you at that bar.
Meaning: cheat
Clunker
I can’t go on a date in that clunker.
Meaning: old car
Cold fish
My date for the dance was a cold fish.
Meaning: dull
Con
Don’t try to con me.
Meaning: deceive
Cool
This is a really cool place to work.
Meaning: good
Cool down
Things should cool down in a day or two.
Meaning: calm down
Cop
How did you get the road sign? I copped it.
Meaning: stole
Boo-boo
If you make another boo-boo like that, you won’t have a job.
Meaning: mistake
Booze
I promised to bring two bottles of booze to the party.
Meaning: Alcohol
Bread
I need some bread to pay for my car.
Meaning: money
Break
A lucky break helped him get the job.
Meaning: opportunity
Break it up
Break it up, or I will call the police.
Meaning: stop
Bummed
I was really bummed after I heard the news.
Meaning: depressed
Bummer
My trip to New York was a bummer.
Meaning: bad experience
Bust
The whole idea was a bust.
Meaning: failure
Buy it
If you don’t slow down, you’re going to buy it in a car accident.
Meaning: die
Call
The weatherman made a good call about when the storm would come.
Meaning: prediction
Can
Do you know where the can is?
Meaning: bathroom
Carb
My motorcycle’s carb is out of adjustment.
Meaning: carburetor
Catch some rays
I’m going to lie on the beach and catch some rays.
Meaning: get some sunshine.
Bent
It’s OK. Don’t get so bent.
Meaning: angry
Bent out of shape
Don’t get so bent out of shape.
Meaning: become upset
Big gun
The president brought two big guns to the meeting.
Meaning: powerful people
Big mouth
Shut up! You really have a big mouth.
Meaning: talk too much
Big stink
The citizens made a big stink about the new nuclear power station.
Meaning: big issue
Blade
He carried a ten-inch blade with him.
Meaning: Knife
Blimp
I always seem to have a blimp sitting next to me when I travel.
Meaning: a very fat person
Blow
I’m going to blow out of here now.
Meaning: leave
Blow
He blew all his money gambling.
Meaning: lost
Blow a fuse
Hey, don’t blow a fuse.
Meaning: loses your temper.
Blow one’s cool
Calm down. Don’t blow your cool.
Meaning: becomes angry
Blown away
I was blown away by his donation of a million dollars.
Meaning: greatly impressed
Bomb
The movie was a bomb.
Meaning: bad
Bombed
The driver of the car was bombed.
Meaning: intoxicated
Bonkers
I think I am going bonkers.
Meaning: Crazy
Ace
He’s an ace reporter.
Meaning: very good
Action
Do you know where the action is in this town?
Meaning: Excitement
Airhead
My sister’s boyfriend is a real airhead.
Meaning: stupid person
All wet
Your ideas about politics are all wet.
Meaning: completely wrong
All-nighter
I almost fell asleep during the test after an all-nighter.
Meaning: after studying all night.
Ammo
The gun was useless after the killer ran out of ammo.
Meaning: ammunition
Antifreeze
I really need some antifreeze in me on cold days like this.
Meaning: liquor
Bad
Wow, that was really a bad movie.
Meaning: intense
Barf
He barfed all over the seat of the airplane.
Meaning: vomited
Bashed
The boat was bashed beyond recognition.
Meaning: crushed
Beat
After working all day I am really beat.
Meaning: exhausted
Beemer
He just bought a new beemer to drive to work in.
Meaning: B.M.W. car
Bench
He was benched during the basketball playoffs.
Meaning: taken out of the game
American Slang Related to Insults
- Jerk: A term used to describe someone who is thoughtless, obnoxious, or arrogant.
- Douchebag: A derogatory term used to describe someone who is arrogant, entitled, or generally unpleasant.
- Asshole: A term used to describe someone who is rude, selfish, or inconsiderate.
- Bitch: A term used to describe someone who is unpleasant or difficult to deal with, especially when they are being demanded or critical.
- Dipshit: A term used to describe someone who is foolish, clumsy, or incompetent.
- Loser: A term used to describe someone who is unsuccessful, unpopular, or generally uncool.
- Moron: A term used to describe someone who is perceived as stupid or lacking intelligence.
- Punk: A term used to describe someone who is weak, cowardly, or lacking in character.
Funny American Slang Words
- Fleek: A term used to describe something that is on point or looks good.
- Jabroni: A humorous insult used to describe someone who is foolish or incompetent.
- Hangry’saurus: A playful way of describing someone who gets extremely irritable when they are hungry.
- Skedaddle: A fun word for “run away” or “get out of here.”
- Scooch: A playful way of asking someone to move over or make room for you.
- Zonked: A slang term for being extremely tired or exhausted.
- Hootenanny: A fun word for a lively social gathering or party.
- Wiggity wack: A silly way of saying something is crazy or ridiculous.
- Nincompoop: A humorous insult meaning someone who is foolish or silly.
- Dweeb: A playful insult used to describe someone who is socially awkward or unpopular.
- Bae: A term of endearment used to describe a significant other or romantic interest.
- Cray: Short for “crazy,” used to describe something or someone that is over-the-top or extreme.
- Lit: Used to describe something that is exciting or energetic, such as a party or concert.
- Guac: Short for “guacamole,” a popular avocado-based dip or spread.
- Hangry: A combination of “hungry” and “angry,” used to describe being irritable due to hunger.
- FOMO: Short for “fear of missing out,” the feeling of anxiety or regret that arises from missing out on an event or opportunity.
- Lame sauce: A humorous way of describing something that is boring or unimpressive.
- YOLO: Short for “you only live once,” used to encourage taking risks or living life to the fullest.
- Cringey: Used to describe something that is embarrassing or uncomfortable to watch.
- Hella: A slang term originating from Northern California, used to mean “very” or “extremely.”
- Totes: Short for “totally,” a slang term used to express agreement or confirmation.
- Ratchet: Used to describe someone or something that is low-class, trashy, or tacky.
- Hundo P: Short for “100 percent,” used to express complete agreement or certainty.
- Fugly: A combination of “fucking” and “ugly,” used to describe something that is extremely unattractive.
- Shook: Used to describe feeling surprised, shocked, or emotionally affected by something.
- Wack: Used to describe something that is unappealing or of poor quality.
- Go ham: Short for “go hard as a motherfucker,” used to encourage someone to give their all or go all out.
- Sus: Short for “suspicious,” used to describe someone or something that seems shady or untrustworthy.
- Slay: Used to describe someone who is killing it or doing exceptionally well.
- Snatched: Used to describe something that looks amazing or someone who looks attractive or put together.
Black American Slangs And Meaning
Black American slang, like any other slang, is a way for a particular group of people to communicate and express themselves in a unique way. Here are some common Black American slang words and their meanings:
- Lit: exciting, fun, or lively
- Fleek: on point or looking good
- Turnt: enthusiastic or excited
- Salty: bitter or angry
- Bae: a term of endearment for a significant other or close friend
- Guap: money
- Cuffing season: the period during the fall and winter when people become more interested in finding a romantic partner
- Hundo P: 100 percent or completely
- Finesse: to skillfully navigate a situation
- Thot: an acronym for “that hoe over there,” used to describe someone who is promiscuous or sexually active
- Snatched: looking good or having a great appearance
- Trill: a combination of “true” and “real,” used to describe something that is authentic or genuine
- On fleek: used to describe something that is on point or looking good
- No cap: meaning “no lie” or “seriously”
- Drip: having a great sense of style or fashion
- Woke: being aware of social and political issues
- Ghost: to disappear or leave abruptly
- Jawn: a versatile slang word that can refer to any person, place, or thing
- Slay: to do something exceptionally well
- Finna: a shortened version of “fixing to” or “going to,” used to indicate an immediate or upcoming action.
How To Speak American Slang?
American slang is a collection of informal and colorful expressions that are often used by native English speakers in the United States. If you want to learn how to speak American slang, here are some tips to get you started:
Watch American TV shows and movies: One of the best ways to pick up American slang is by watching American TV shows and movies. Pay attention to the words and phrases that are commonly used by the characters, and try to incorporate them into your own vocabulary.
Listen to American music: American music is full of slang and idiomatic expressions. Listen to different genres of music, and pay attention to the lyrics. You’ll be surprised at how much you can learn from popular songs.
Read American books and magazines: Reading American books and magazines can also help you to learn American slang. Look for publications that are popular in the United States, and pay attention to the words and phrases that are used.
Interact with native speakers: If you have the opportunity to interact with native speakers of American English, take advantage of it. Ask them to teach you some slang words and phrases, and practice using them in conversation.
Use online resources: There are many online resources that can help you to learn American slang. Look for websites and apps that provide lists of common slang words and phrases, and practice using them in sentences.
Remember, slang is informal and should be used appropriately in the right context. Be mindful of the people you’re speaking with, and make sure you’re using slang that is appropriate for the situation.
Infographics – American Slang Words
Download PDF
Download the PDF of the Slang words list.
Ulan Ainura
Mutanova Bibinur
Alieva Liana
students EP «Translation Studies» of the Turan University
Abstract: This article raises the topic of the history of the emergence of slang in the English language, gives a general definition of slang. Its main types, their origin, definition are listed. The key concepts that are used in the translation of English slang into Russian are established.
Relevance: Slang is one of the integral parts of the English vocabulary. In modern English, it is very diverse, as it develops, expands and actively erases the boundaries of the language. Slang is intended for everyone who wants to follow the news and interact more actively with the outside world, with other people, and therefore speak one of the most widely spoken languages in the world.
The purpose of the work is to consider the features of the modern English language, the study of various types of slang and factors affecting its development. Aspects of slang are highlighted. The importance of slang in the modern world is substantiated.
Object of research: slang as an integral part of modern English education.
Subject of research: words, phrases and phrases often used for the emotional designation of subjects related to the educational process, profession and interests.
Keywords: slang, jargon, argot, professional slang, youth slang.
Most linguists and lexicographers recognize that the origin of the word slang is «uncertain» or «unknown». A notable exception is Walter William Skeet, a lexicographer who argued that slang («vulgar language») is of Scandinavian origin and is derived from the Icelandic slyngva («to throw»), which can be compared to the Norwegian verb slengja («to bind»). Jaw») and the Norwegian noun slengjeord («slang word»), used for offensive words. The lexicographer was opposed by one of the Swedish slang researchers Anna-Brita Stenstrom in her article «From slang to slang: a description based on a teenage conversation» gives an example of a Swedish dictionary, «Bonniers Stora Lexicon», in which it is claimed that Swedish verbal slang comes from English slang, and its origin is unknown. The first mention of the word «slang» dates back to 1756 in the OED (Oxford English Dictionary), according to which the original source is «not obvious». Consequently, the word «slang» appeared in English earlier than in the languages of the Scandinavian countries.
Another point of view on the appearance of the word «slang» suggests that it is not an English word; it is a Gypsy term for their secret language. Some other philologists consider it a derivative of French.
But the phenomenon of slang appeared before it got the name «slang». According to Swift, slang is as old as speech, and traces of it can be found as far back as we can go. Old English slang was rougher and more dependent on outright vulgarity than our modern slang. The slang of those days was usually called the «flash» language, which represented both hypocrisy and slang. It is important to emphasize that the term «slang» was first used by Francis Grose in 1785. He defined it as «kant or vulgar language». In the 18th century, slang was considered a misuse of the English language and was considered forbidden. Currently, slang is not associated with 2vulgar language». It takes its shape and is influenced by different cultures and technological innovations that have left many slang extremes in society from street slang to African-American slang. Moreover, slang tends to arise in subcultures of society.
The vocabulary of slang is changing rapidly: what is new and exciting for one generation, old-fashioned for the next. Old slang often either becomes obsolete or becomes generally accepted. into the literary language, losing its eccentric coloring.
Slang has been developing for centuries, moving from one social group to another. As in other languages, slang words help people communicate easier and faster. At the same time, it allows you to become part of a certain social circle in which people encode their communication with certain slang terms. As a result, slang brings a new sound to the language, helping people stand out from the crowd.
In most countries, the emergence of new slang terms is mainly caused by the fact that the younger generation creates a lot of slang abbreviations for SMS in social networks, online chats and on their YouTube channels.
Slang is the use of informal words and expressions that are not in standard English, but which are acceptable in certain social situations. In our daily life, we can see the use of slang in books, magazines and television films, because slang is closely related to the national culture. The translation of English slang requires the translator to pay attention to the correspondence of language and culture.
Language is a tool for people to communicate with each other, it has no class nature. But this does not mean that people use the same language in different classes. Languages used in different classes have different symbols and colors; they may reflect the speaker’s social background, status, artistic culture and industry experience. In English, slang is a colorful word. But now people can use slang in conversation to make their language bright, humorous and different from others. Especially young people are trying to use new slang in their conversations. Meanwhile, slang can help the conversation be light and friendly. Therefore, slang is widely used in our daily life. As a widely used language, slang has its own definition, features and ways of translation.
In sociolinguistic literature, the linguistic community is usually considered as the source cell of sociolinguistic analysis; the term «slang» refers to the following linguistic phenomena:
1. Vocabulary characterized by greater metaphoricity, brightness and fragility than ordinary language.
2. Speech and writing are characterized by the use of vulgar and socially taboo vocabulary.
3. Social and professional jargon.
Interestingly, 55% of students use English slang in oral and written speech. This shows how fast the world around us is developing. Slang, being an integral part of the language and developing with it, is used in various social groups.
Slang itself is a variation of the «secret language» and synonymous with words such as jargon or argot.
Slang names traditionally go back to the groups that use them. It is unlikely to be possible to name all the types, but the main types are as follows:
1. An abbreviation is an abbreviation or addition of two or more words, which as a result acquire a short form. Abbreviations also refer to slang and are actively used in messages in order to save time.
The most common and popular abbreviations worldwide: LOL – laughing out loud; BTW – by the way; ZZZ – sleeping; BFF — best friends forever; YOLO – you only live once; DM – direct message; Collab – collaboration.
There are also the simplest abbreviations, where one letter or number is a word: 2 – too; 4 – for; B – be; U – you; Y – why.
2. Youth slang is one of the most relevant types of slang. Youth slang is used exclusively among young people, most often among teenagers, that is, the age category from 12 to 25 years. Youth slang is always changing and developing, the appearance of new slangs does not make it difficult for young people to immediately use them in all areas of their lives. This type of slang is the complete opposite of the official business style of speech, and also differs from other types of slang in its emotional expressiveness, rudeness and straightforwardness. In addition, there are a lot of divisions among this type of slang, that is, there are certain words that are characteristic of different social groups, cultural trends and age categories. So, it is possible to distinguish school and student slang and slang of gamers etc.
Earlier, the older generation believed that teenage slang was one of the types of manifestations of rebellion, but at the moment everything has changed dramatically. In the 21st century, the era of advanced technologies and social networks, the entire younger generation actively uses slang expressions. Slang has become so commonplace a part of colloquial speech that people who claim that they are not used do not notice that it is present in their speech. Why is the younger generation so actively using slang? The answer is very simple, to become a part of the youth environment, not to differ and keep up with peers, to understand conversations that are closely related to slang.
The reasons for the formation of new slang expressions are:
1. modern music and films of different genres;
2. passion for foreign culture and languages;
3. social networks and games;
4. the need of young people to have their own «special» language in order to express themselves vividly, emotionally;
5. low level of culture and upbringing in the family;
Divisions in youth slang:
— School slang. It is used by school students aged from 12 to 18 years, respectively. Most often it is harmless in nature, has no negative coloring. School slang, of course, includes words related to school subjects, teachers, classrooms, homework and school friends. Here are some examples of school slang:
Basic – is an adjective that describes something typical and ordinary; To kill, kari –to make fun of; Zero cool – cool! very good, super; Homey, homers – homework; bear — school teacher; chicken — coward;
— Student slang. It is used and understood by students of universities and colleges. Unlike school slang, student slang differs in that slang lingers here for many years. There are also divisions within student slang, that is, it is the use of slang in a particular faculty and specialty. Some slang words are used in their speech not only by students, but also by teachers. Below are examples of student slang:
Grazing – grab a bite; Put a sock in it! – Shut up! bro – short for brother; wench, gooey – girlfriend; nоре – no; neat – cool; What’s up? – How are you? make a play for – flirt; fаb – fabulous; Faffing – wasting your time.
— Gaming slang. The most popular form of leisure for young people now are video games, Over the past 20 years with the development of video games, a unique gaming slang has appeared and founded, which serves to exchange information among players. It got to the point that the slang phrases of gamers began to penetrate into ordinary speech, because a whole generation grew up on them. Game slang has brevity, accuracy, emotionality and, most importantly, has the goal of transmitting, for example, a large amount of information with a couple of slang phrases, which helps players in a tense gameplay. There are also 2 types of gamers’ slang, this is oral and written slang, oral is used during online games when communicating with other players, written slang is used in chats, slang is very short, most often abbreviations. Examples of gaming slang:
N00b – newbie, newbie. In all new beginnings or professions, there are beginners, but novice gamers call N00b, written with two zeros together with the letters o. They most often use this slang either neutrally or as an insult.
Cheater – from the word cheat, to deceive. Players who use hacked games, use deceptive techniques during the game, for example, to hit without aiming, to have an unlimited supply of money in the game, all this applies to cheaters.
NPC – characters in games that are not under the control of the player, they are just extras, they can be anyone, both people and monsters, animals. Slang is also used outside the game, NPCs call those who do not think with their own heads, always adhere to someone else’s opinion.
3. Professional slang is a set of vocabulary that is used in a particular profession, it is used not only during discussions of work, conferences, meetings, but also in ordinary colloquial speech. The reason for the appearance of professional slang was the simplification of communication at work. Professional slang, as well as student slang, may differ depending on what field or companies you work in and also has slang that everyone uses and understands. For example, the slang of IT specialists. Terms from this area have become so popular and memorable that, as with gaming slang, they have entered everyday speech.
Why is it worth studying professional slang? First of all, this is a good opportunity to replenish your vocabulary, professional slang will also help you join a new team, and the third reason is the opportunity to understand slang in films and TV series with a plot tied to professions, for example, you can even better understand the replicas of the characters from the series «Grey’s Anatomy», the plot of which completely revolves around medicine.
Examples of slang expressions of different specialties:
Appy – an appendicitis, or an appendix; circle the drain – to be close to death; frequent flyer – a patient who spends a lot of time at hospital, is frequently admitted; slasher – a surgeon; chinwag – a word describing a good conversation; spaghetti code – is any poorly and clumsily designed program; mung – make changes to the file; MISPER – missing person; house mouse — a law enforcement officer engaged in office work.
The most common professional slang that employees use for informal communication: IDK – I don’t know; BRB – Be right back; EOD – End of the day; net – internet; nosh – short lunch.
If we talk about the distinctive features of professional slang, then you can see that it has a part of phonetics. English-speaking professional slang units are difficult to translate into Russian. Lexical units that are reformed by Russian slang from English and American slang do not have much difficulty in the translation process. Example: carpet – carpet. When translating slang from English into Russian, translators use a metaphor. In the process of translating reduced vocabulary, you need to use the same translations as for literary translation. Difficulties can be caused by lexical units that are not listed in dictionaries, reference books, etc.
Types of slang translations. Lexical and grammatical translation transformations (calculus, generalization, modulation, etc. When translating slang, it is important to preserve expressions. Knowledge of the correct use of slang in a literary text is of great importance for the translator as a whole. The main problem that translators face when translating slang is that there are no semantic equivalents. In general, a translator should know the types of slang and be able to use them in any field, as well as a simultaneous interpreter and in writing. There are also types of slang that cannot be translated, this is another difficulty of the translator. After all, slang in all spheres are different. In our modern world, we are obliged to get acquainted with various types and translations of slang, and even more so to know how they are translated in order to use them correctly. British and American slang are completely different, but the translation may be the same.
America (USA) is famous for both abbreviations and slang. But for the most part they speak slang and translate slang professionally. Let’s look at examples: Ace – drop off, kudos- respect, Dis – stop, Dig –dragging, piece of cake – just spit and there are a lot of slang. But again, returning to them, we can say that their translation is not direct, and by translating them you can very quickly and easily replenish your vocabulary.
Examples of slang: Fam – family, Stan – fan, Meh – uninteresting, Botch – work at random, Bae – favorite, baby, Budge up – move up, Do – party, Jolly – very, Wonky – unstable, Easy – peasy – easy, Soph- sophomore, Ret- cigarette, Zam – exam.
It is interesting that slang differs from literature in that slang is an abbreviated form of a word, and when translated, it is generally abbreviated and quickly pronounced just as easily. All languages have slang, but they are translated differently, but words not slang have a completely different translation. Professional translation shows the word and how it is written very well, because for translators plus a professional, the main thing is to look at how it looks and how it is written. We are considering the fact how modern slang is, because there are slangs that went away several centuries ago, but still have the same translation, or the translation has changed. Professional translation is very complex, but at the same time easy in writing, and it can also be noted that all translations have their own structure. How slangs are arranged and pronounced in the text and how they are perceived and translated.
It also happens that we cannot translate this or that slang, but we can see it in use, like a movie. In films, for example, they speak quickly and sometimes you can’t figure out who said what, and slang comes to the rescue, and slang can be transferred quickly and correctly. Examples include video games, books, cartoons, all sorts of different stories, articles, and the like. We call the modem a lot, and there are a lot of examples to this. You can take another example of cartoons. Their children are very interesting to watch, they stick to them and do not come off. But there you can hear a lot and a lot of slang, namely youth, but their translation will sound the same, but the main thing is to be clear and legible, this concerns the translator. Well, we can say that slangs in professional translation are of great importance, without them it would be difficult and difficult for translators to translate. The main thing is that the translation should be competent, structural, and youth-oriented at the expense of slang. The purpose of slang translations is to show how this slang is written and how it sounds correctly, how it can be pronounced or abbreviated and how it is borrowed correctly. After all, there are many words borrowed from other languages, as well as literature and slang. The main thing is to show what this slang means, to write a definition for slang and how to write the translation completely. Russian has a lot of slang, but they are translated into English in a completely different way and sound different, but it is translated from English into Russian in the same way. But some slang words are written as they sound and are translated the same way. Professional translation gives us a chance to show how to work with slang correctly, and how to translate and use them correctly in speech, namely in colloquial speech. If the speech is fast, then of course you can not understand what kind of slang and how it is written and translated, but if the speech is intelligible, then it will be easier.
In conclusion, it should be noted that currently slang includes both specific and general meanings. It usually consists of new words and new or expanded meanings. Finding completely fresh, energetic, colorful, sharp or humorous expressions. When translating vocabulary in general and slang, various Internet resources, dictionaries, watching various kinds of movies, etc. should be used. Accurate knowledge of lexical and semantic features is the main specificity of slang translation. This phenomenon is unique and contradictory in itself. To be aware of all new words, you need to communicate regularly with native speakers and preferably in an informal setting. Slang has had a great influence on traditional English. It is thanks to him that the language has become more modern and extraordinary, because in the context of aristocratic English slang it looks bright, expressive and informal
Resource:
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