May 14, 2024
Updated July 21, 2025
14 minute read
Slang, which is “slang” because it is informal language, is a colorful way to spice up your language and express yourself in a more colloquial manner. It is never appropriate in formal situations like academic writing or presentations, but it is perfectly acceptable in casual situations. While most English learners will learn what is considered standard or formal English, learners who wish to master the English language for all uses may wish to dabble in learning some common slang.
Why Learn Slang?
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Find a path to becoming a Slang. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/nxvmqj/slan
Reading list
We've selected 30 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Slang.
This is the most comprehensive historical dictionary of English slang available, covering five centuries of terms from across the English-speaking world. It is an essential reference tool for anyone doing serious research on slang, providing extensive citations and historical context. While dense, it is invaluable for understanding the breadth and history of slang vocabulary. This must-have resource for advanced students and researchers.
This handbook features contributions from various scholars on different aspects of English slang and unconventional language. It covers a wide range of topics, including historical perspectives, regional variations, slang in specific contexts, and theoretical approaches. It is an excellent resource for gaining a broad and deep understanding of current research in the field.
This comprehensive dictionary of French slang provides definitions and examples for over 10,000 slang terms and phrases. It is an essential resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the language of the French underworld.
As the successor to Eric Partridge's dictionary, this multi-volume work documents slang and unconventional English from the mid-20th century onwards. It comprehensive reference for contemporary and recent historical slang, drawing from a wide range of sources. This vital resource for researchers and professionals needing to understand modern informal language.
This up-to-date slang dictionary provides definitions and examples for over 10,000 slang terms and phrases. It is an essential resource for anyone who wants to stay current with the evolving language of young people and popular culture.
This concise book offers an excellent starting point for understanding the multifaceted nature of slang. It explores the definition, origins, history, and social aspects of slang in an accessible manner. It is ideal for high school and early undergraduate students seeking a broad overview of the topic before delving into more specialized texts.
While not exclusively about slang, this book provides an insightful look at how the internet is changing language, including the creation and spread of new informal vocabulary and linguistic norms. It is highly relevant for understanding contemporary language use and internet slang. This is an excellent resource for anyone interested in modern communication and language evolution.
This fascinating book explores the history and evolution of slang, tracing its origins from the criminal underworld to the halls of academia. It provides insights into the social and cultural forces that shape slang and its role in shaping our language.
Providing a historical journey through English slang, this book traces its development from its earliest recorded forms to more recent times. It offers rich contextual information on how slang has evolved alongside society and culture. is valuable for gaining a deeper historical understanding and is suitable for undergraduate and graduate students interested in the evolution of language.
This condensed version of the larger New Partridge Dictionary, offering a substantial collection of post-WWII slang in a more accessible format. It valuable reference for students and professionals who need a comprehensive but not exhaustive dictionary of contemporary slang. It retains the focus on unconventional English with numerous examples.
Examines slang and unconventional language across different societies and groups, exploring the motivations behind its use and how it is constructed. It offers a cross-cultural perspective on slang, highlighting its diverse forms and functions globally. It is valuable for those interested in the comparative and sociological aspects of slang.
This dictionary focuses specifically on recent and current slang in English. It useful reference for identifying and understanding contemporary informal terms across various domains. While not as exhaustive as the larger historical dictionaries, it provides a good overview of modern slang vocabulary.
A foundational text in the study of slang, Partridge's work provides a historical and thematic analysis of slang. While older, it offers invaluable perspectives on the nature and function of slang that are still relevant today. It is considered a classic in the field and is important reading for those seeking a deep understanding of slang's scholarly history.
Adams explores the creative and poetic aspects of slang, arguing for its linguistic value and artistry. The book delves into the formation and function of slang from a linguistic perspective, offering a different way to appreciate informal language. It is suitable for those interested in the linguistic analysis and cultural significance of slang.
Examines the slang used by a specific social group, college students, and explores its social functions and linguistic characteristics. It provides a detailed look at how slang operates within a community. This is valuable for understanding the sociolinguistic aspects of slang and is relevant for students interested in language and social groups.
This comprehensive history of American slang traces the development of slang from its early origins to the present day. It provides a wealth of information on the origins, meanings, and usage of slang terms.
Provides a detailed linguistic analysis of African American slang, examining its features, origins, and role within the community. It offers a focused study of slang within a specific cultural and linguistic context. It is suitable for those interested in dialectology, sociolinguistics, and the slang of particular groups.
Delves into the origins and evolution of various slang terms, presenting them in an engaging and often entertaining way. It highlights the creativity and human element behind slang creation and usage. It serves as excellent additional reading for all levels, providing fascinating insights into specific examples of slang.
This groundbreaking book examines the language of African-American communities in urban America. Rickford argues that the use of slang and other non-standard language forms is not a sign of linguistic deficiency but rather a reflection of a distinct cultural identity.
This widely used textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to sociolinguistics, the study of language in relation to society. It includes discussions on language variation, social class, age, gender, and group identity, all of which are highly relevant to understanding the use and function of slang. It provides essential background knowledge for studying slang within its social context.
This dictionary offers a concise collection of modern English slang, providing definitions and usage examples. It convenient reference for students and general readers looking to understand contemporary informal vocabulary. While not as extensive as larger dictionaries, it practical tool for navigating current slang.
Offers a concise introduction to the field of sociolinguistics, exploring the relationship between language and society. It covers key concepts such as language variation, social factors influencing language use, and the role of language in constructing identity. This provides a solid theoretical foundation for understanding why and how slang is used in different social contexts.
Provides a comprehensive overview of slang in India. It explores the history, origins, and social significance of slang in Indian society.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/nxvmqj/slan
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