slang term
Noun: A slang term is a word or phrase that is part of slang. Slang is a type of informal, often creative language used within specific social groups. Slang terms are typically not considered appropriate for formal speech or writing. They can be new words, new meanings for old words, or abbreviations. Their purpose is often to establish group identity, be playful, or describe something in a vivid, non-standard way. They frequently become outdated quickly.
A slang term is used to identify a specific piece of slang vocabulary. It is often discussed in the context of language study, social trends, or generational differences. * When analyzing language, linguists might catalog a new slang term. * A parent might ask their child to explain a slang term they heard. * A writer might avoid using a slang term in a formal report.
- "The word 'ghosting' became a common slang term for suddenly ending all communication with someone."
- "He used a slang term I hadn't heard before, so I had to look it up."
- "Many slang terms from the 1920s, like 'the bee's knees,' sound strange to us now."
- Lexical Diffusion: The study of how a slang term spreads from one social group or region to another.
- Sociolinguistic Marker: A slang term can act as a powerful marker of in-group membership, age, or subculture (e.g., gaming, finance, music).
- Slang (n): The entire category of informal, non-standard vocabulary. (e.g., "Teenage slang changes rapidly.")
- Slangy (adj): Having the characteristics of slang; using slang. (e.g., "His slangy speech was hard for the professor to follow.")
- Colloquialism (n): A familiar, informal word or phrase used in ordinary conversation. This is a broader, often less transitory category than a slang term.
- Jargon (n): Specialized vocabulary used by a particular profession or group, not necessarily informal or intended to be exclusive.
- Informalism
- Vernacular expression (broader, can refer to everyday language of a region)
- Argot (refers specifically to the jargon of a particular group, often secretive)
- To coin a slang term: To invent a new piece of slang.
- The online community coined a new slang term for that feeling.
- Slang term for: Used to specify what a slang word means.
- 'Salty' is a slang term for being irritated or resentful.
- To be/become part of the slang: Describes when a word enters common slang usage.
- That phrase has really become part of the slang lately.
- Slang of the day: Refers to very current, trendy slang that may not last.
- I can't keep up with the slang of the day my students use.
- informal language consisting of words and expressions that are not considered appropriate for formal occasions; often vituperative or vulgar
- their speech was full of slang expressions