Slang and Humor
Slang and Humor
Slang refers to vocabulary (words or phrases) that is considered informal and typically limited to a region or group of people. It can even be limited to a specific situation or profession. The use of slang reflects a culture and helps convey thought and meaning while connecting with peers.
Since it is limited to a region, it’s similar to dialects, in that meaning and use can vary across the U.S. Because slang is considered to be informal, it’s best used in social settings, not formal or business settings (unless it’s related to the profession).
Slang Phrases
Examples of common slang phrases are below, but terms are constantly changing. Slang is influenced and created by music, politics, pop culture, the internet, and current events. Review these with clients and discuss the meanings.
- A-game: best self
- Blow/bomb: to fail or perform poorly
- Bro: a male friend (often used by other males)
- Cash/buck: money
- Chill: relax
- FYI: acronym for ‘for your information’
- Spill the tea: gossip
- LOL: laugh out loud
- Easy peasy/easy breezy: easy or effortless
- Ride shotgun: ride in the front passenger seat in a car
- Rip off: to be overcharged
- Screw up: to make a mistake
- Chit chat: have a casual conversation (small talk)
- Hit the spot: food or drink that was really good, just what you wanted
- What’s up: another way to ask ‘how are you’
- 24/7: non-stop, around the clock
- Wicked: amazing
- Wrap-up: to finish or bring to an end
- When pigs fly: It will never happen
- Lit: Amazing or cool
Discuss
Have the client come up with their own list of slang terms. Discuss scenarios of when to use them.
For more information on sarcasm and humor, check out my blog post. What are your favorite slang phrases? Let us know in the comments below.
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