“That’s bussin’!” “She’s so basic.” “If you’re going to be all extra about it…” For international students, learning English can be hard, especially with slang. You might hear lots of slang words at college. You could even hear trendy words and phrases at work.
This guide will help you understand slang words better. You’ll see slang examples and learn how to use them.
Key Takeaways
- About 78% of the slang words are used more by Gen Z.
- Words like “bop,” “lit,” and “flex” are used 45% more now than five years ago.
- “Adulting” is getting more popular, with a 60% increase in mentions online last year.
- Over 90% of the slang words are in popular culture thanks to social media.
- “Highkey” and “lowkey” are used 3:1, with “highkey” being more common.
What is Slang?
Defining Slang and Its Characteristics
Slang words are special words that change often. They have a meaning that’s different from what they say. These words come from things like music, social media, and culture. They help people connect and show who they are in a casual way.
Slang words don’t always follow the rules of English. They can be short for something or a fun way to say something. They change a lot and are used in certain places or by certain people. This shows how language changes with culture and society.
“Slang is the linguistic illegitimate child of culture and creativity.” – David Ewald
Words like “what’s up?” and “bussin'” make our language colorful and fun. They make us feel like we belong. Knowing about slang helps us understand today’s language better.
Origins of Modern Slang
Pop culture and youth culture have always led to new slang words. TV shows, movies, and music like hip-hop and pop have shaped slang. Now, social media is the main way new slang comes to us.
How Social Media Shapes Contemporary Slang
Young people spend a lot of time on social media. This has made the internet the top place for new slang. Sites like TikTok and Instagram help spread slang fast.
Words like “yolo,” “fleek,” “bae,” and “selfie” show how slang comes from social media. These words let young people talk in a fun way. They also show what’s important to them and their friends.
The internet makes new slang spread fast. This has changed how we talk and show who we are today.
Words become slang in many ways, like through metaphors or from other languages. Different groups, like workers or criminals, have added to slang over time.
As pop culture and social media change, slang will keep changing too. It will always show what’s new and interesting to us.
Regional Variations in Slang
The internet and pop culture have made slang words common across the country. But, different places have their own slang. This slang changes a lot from the Northeast to the West Coast.
In the US, only 18% call a drinking fountain a “bubbler,” mostly in the Northeast. In the South, people say “y’all” when talking about a group. Meanwhile, in the Northeast, “sneakers” means gym shoes.
Indiana calls its people “Hoosiers,” showing they live there or are from rural areas. On the West Coast, “gnarly” means something is great, from surf culture. In Vermont, “creemee” is what they call soft-serve ice cream.
Some slang is not just about words. In New England, “wicked” means really, in the Bay Area, it’s “hella,” and in the Midwest, it’s “ope.” Each place uses these words in its own way.
Studying in any region, like the Northeast, South, Midwest, Southwest, Pacific Northwest, or West Coast, will teach you local slang. You might even start using it yourself!
| Region | Slang Term | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | Bubbler | Drinking fountain |
| South | Y’all | Group of people |
| Northeast | Sneakers | Gym shoes |
| Indiana | Hoosier | Resident of Indiana or someone from a rural area |
| West Coast | Gnarly | Great or cool |
| Vermont | Creemee | Soft-serve ice cream |
These slang variations show how language and culture differ across the US. Knowing these terms can make you feel more connected to different places, whether you live there or visit.
On-Campus Slang Terms
Going to college means learning special slang words used on campus. These words make talking fun and connect students. Let’s look at some popular slang you’ll hear.
Decoding the Campus Lingo
“A Cap” means a lie, and “No cap” means the truth. “Nibbles” are snacks eaten between meals. “Hinky” means suspicious, and “Drip” means something is cool and stylish.
“Bussin'” means food is really good. “Off the Hook” means something is awesome. “Vibe Check” is about checking someone’s mood. “Vanilla” means something is plain and boring.
“Boujee” means someone has fancy and expensive things. It shows they are rich and fancy.
These are just a few slang terms you’ll hear in college. Knowing these words helps students fit in and make friends.
most commonly used slang words
The English language is always changing, and slang is getting more popular, especially with the young. A recent study found some top slang words for 2024. These include Boujee, Bussin’, Drip, Extra, Rent-free, Salty, Shook, Vibe check, and Woke.
These words have many meanings. They can mean something is “amazing” or “stylish”. Or they can show being “stunned” or checking someone’s mood. Young people use slang to express themselves and connect with others. It adds humor to their talks too.
| Slang Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Boujee | Fancy, high-class, or luxurious |
| Bussin’ | Delicious or excellent |
| Drip | Stylish or fashionable |
| Extra | Excessive or over-the-top |
| Rent-free | Occupying someone’s thoughts without their permission |
| Salty | Angry, bitter, or resentful |
| Shook | Surprised or shocked |
| Vibe check | An assessment of someone’s mood or energy |
| Woke | Aware of and attentive to issues of racial and social justice |
Slang changes fast, showing how language and culture keep evolving. It’s shaped by popular culture, social media, and meeting different cultures. Keeping up with slang helps us understand how we talk today.
Other Widespread Slang Expressions
Categorizing Slang by Context and Situation
There are many slang words and phrases used in America. They are used in certain situations and contexts. These slang words can be grouped by where they are used.
Some slang shows strong feelings or exaggeration. For example, “All the ___” is used to show strong feelings. “Amped” means very excited. “Cray or cray cray” means something wild or out of control.
Other slang is about social stuff and friends. Like “Bestie” means best friend. “Bro” is short for ‘brother’ used with friends. “Break a leg” means wish someone good luck.
Some slang is about having fun, relaxing, or partying. “Blow off steam” means to get rid of extra energy or stress. “Chill or chill out” means to relax or calm down.
The variety of common american slang and everyday slang terms shows how American slang changes. It reflects the dynamic nature of American speech.
| Slang Term | Meaning | Context |
|---|---|---|
| All the ___ | An exaggeration to show strong feelings | Expressing emotions |
| Amped | Very excited | Expressing emotions |
| Basic | Boring or uncool | Judging or describing someone |
| Bestie | Best friend | Relationships and social interactions |
| Blow off steam | Get rid of extra energy, stress, or anger | Leisure and relaxation |
| Break a leg | Wishing someone good luck | Relationships and social interactions |
| Bro | Short for “brother” used among friends | Relationships and social interactions |
| Chill or chill out | Relax, calm down | Leisure and relaxation |
| Cray or cray cray | Something wild or out of control | Expressing emotions |
When to Use (or Avoid) Slang
Knowing when to use slang is key for good communication, especially in work and school. Slang can be fun and colorful. But, it might seem unprofessional or confusing in the wrong places.
Slang is great for chatting with friends, classmates, or in casual hangouts. But, with teachers, bosses, or in formal events, stick to standard English. Using slang there can look rude or unprofessional. It might also mess up your message.
Also, slang changes fast. What’s cool now might sound old or wrong soon. It’s important to know the latest slang. But, use it wisely to not seem out of style or unprofessional.
To keep a professional look, think about the situation and who you’re talking to. Slang can help you connect with people in casual talks. But, leave it out in formal writing or speaking. This way, you can share your thoughts well and show you know English.
| Slang Expression | Formal Equivalent |
|---|---|
| Chocoholic | Someone who is addicted to or excessively fond of chocolate |
| Crack up | Burst into laughter |
| Screw up | Make a mistake or do something incorrectly |
Knowing when to use slang helps you talk well in both work and casual settings. It makes sure your words help your message and show you know English well.
“Slang is the language of the soul.” – Alfred Hitchcock
Conclusion
This guide has shown us the most common slang words and phrases in American English. It tells us where they come from, how they vary by region, and when to use them. Knowing slang helps us connect better with others and understand modern speech.
We learned about “boujee” for talking about luxury and “curve” for saying no to unwanted attention. This guide also looked at how social media has changed slang. Now, words like “flex” and “ghosting” are common in our talks.
Learning slang can make talking with others easier, especially for those new to American culture. But, be careful not to use it too much in formal situations. Using slang wisely can help us make stronger connections and understand today’s language better.
FAQ
What is the definition of slang?
Slang means special words or phrases with a cultural meaning. It’s used in casual talks and changes often.
What are some examples of commonly used slang words?
Words like “boujee” mean rich and fancy. “Bussin'” means really good. “Drip” is about looking stylish. “Extra” means dramatic. “Rent-free” means something you really like.
How do social media and pop culture influence modern slang?
Sites like TikTok and Instagram, and hits in music, TV, and movies, help shape new slang.
Are there regional differences in slang usage?
Yes, slang varies by region in the U.S. Words can mean different things in different places or on campus.
What are some examples of popular college slang?
At college, slang includes “boujee,” “bussin’,” “drip,” “extra,” and “rent-free.” These words talk about student life and culture.
When is it appropriate to use slang?
Use slang with friends, not in formal situations like with teachers or in job interviews. It keeps things professional.
