How to Learn Slang and Informal Language

by Rachel Abbott, ABC School’s Academic Coordinator International students dutifully attend their English classes, study the grammar and formalities of the language and produce beautifully pronounced sentences. Then, when they are out of the classroom and away from the text books, they start encountering a language that breaks all of these rules. They become exposed to slang and informal language and start to panic! The English language has changed enormously. An English speaker of 1400 would not have understood the English of today. Changes have taken place in the sounds, in their distribution, and in the grammar. In addition, the vocabulary of English has expanded even though the spelling of words has not changed too much. Slang is sometimes referred to as ‘street’ language, as in ordinary and common and is usually quite colourful language, i.e. swearing or sexual references are used. In short, slang can be quite offensive, but this isn’t always the case and, in its defence, slang does keep the English language from becoming stale. Slang is ever evolving and slang terms can vary depending on where you are in the UK. So, with all of this going on, how are International students supposed to understand anyone outside of the classroom? I would suggest that before you rush out and buy an urban slang dictionary and an armful of Dizzee Rascal records, that you first consider the situations in which you will need to use English. Slang is often used as a way to appear friendly to someone or to show that you belong with a certain group of people or that you understand popular culture. It shows that you are part of the ‘in crowd’. Consider your language goals. If you plan to attend university, then formal language is what you’ll be using daily for essays and formal emails. If you will be using English for work, you will also need to communicate formally and properly. If, on the other hand, you’re learning English in order to simply get by and socialise, you’ll encounter and use a lot more slang. There are some useful online resources and tools available for students who are keen to learn more slang: ’Slang-o-lator’ is an online game that shows colourful images along with slang phrases, and asks the player to match the correct phrase to the image each time. For exposure to British slang, a great resource is EFL Smart Blog. This site will help you to understand common everyday slang, such as the word ‘fit’ used when you find someone physically attractive rather than physically healthy! There are many resources available to EFL students but there are other ways to learn informal language. Making English speaking friends is a great way to gain confidence, and you’ll pick up new words and phrases almost without even realising it. You’ll learn the colloquial language spoken by native Brits every day — the constantly evolving slang that language books don’t tend to teach you. You could also watch British TV and films or listen to British music! Up to you! To sum up, however you decide to expand your slang vocabulary, I hope you’ve found these tips useful, and that they’ll help you make your English studies more enjoyable! Good luck, or should I say ‘break a leg!’