The word "slang" is spelled as /slæŋ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "s" is pronounced as /s/ sound, followed by the "l" sound pronounced as /l/, which is then blended with the "a" sound, represented as /æ/. The "n" sound is pronounced as /ŋ/. The word "slang" is commonly used to refer to informal language or the use of unconventional words or expressions. Despite its unconventional nature, slang has become an integral part of modern communication and has evolved significantly over time.
Slang is a term used to refer to informal and unconventional language usage that exists within a particular social group, community, or subculture. It consists of words, phrases, expressions, and sometimes even grammatical structures that are unique to that specific group and are not typically found in standard dictionary vocabulary or formalized language.
One defining characteristic of slang is its dynamic and ever-changing nature. Slang words and phrases often emerge and evolve rapidly in response to current trends, popular culture references, or the need to communicate in a more obscure manner. It is usually associated with younger generations or subcultures, as they tend to create and adopt new slang terms more frequently.
Slang can serve various purposes within a group, such as creating a sense of identity, fostering a feeling of belonging, or expressing camaraderie among members. It can also be used to exclude or confuse outsiders, as its meaning might not be readily understood by those outside the group.
Slang can differ significantly between different communities, regions, or even countries. Some slang terms become widely popular and are adopted by larger populations, while others remain localized to specific groups. Despite its informality, slang can often convey complex meanings, emotions, or ideas that resonate deeply with those who use and understand it, reinforcing a sense of cultural and social identity.
• Of sling, which see.
• Literally, the language of the gipsies; a name applied to those familiar and pithy words and phrases, both coarse and refined, which have their origin by accident or caprice, in use by persons in every grade of life, rich and poor, and which float about and change with fashion and taste, but not without leaving permanent and recognised additions to the language.
• Did sling.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "slang" originates from the mid-18th century, derived from the Scottish term "slang" or "sling", which meant "to beat or lash". This term later evolved to refer to the harsh, quick, or derisive speech employed by criminals or those in a lower social class. Over time, "slang" has come to signify a type of informal, non-standard language or vocabulary used within particular groups or subcultures.