What is the Difference Between Slang and Colloquial?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚Slang and colloquialism are both spoken forms of language that use informal words and expressions. However, there are differences between the two:
- Slang: This is predominantly used by certain groups of people and is more informal than colloquial language. Slang is linguistically innovative and often more playful than colloquialisms. It may be geographically dispersed but restricted to a certain demographic. Examples of slang include "Old fogey" (old person), "Bee's knees" (to express something is excellent), and "Skiving" (to express avoiding work or school).
- Colloquialism: This refers to the informal use of language consisting of words, phrases, and aphorisms used by common people. Colloquialisms are used within a certain region, regardless of age, race, or culture. They are bound by a geographical region, making them more specific than slang. Examples of colloquialisms include regional expressions like "y'all" in the Southern United States or "eh" in Canada.
In summary, while both slang and colloquialism are informal forms of speech, slang is more informal and often used by specific groups of people, whereas colloquialisms are region-specific and used by a broader range of people within that region.
On this pageWhat is the Difference Between Slang and Colloquial? Comparative Table: Slang vs Colloquial
Comparative Table: Slang vs Colloquial
Here is a table comparing the differences between slang and colloquial language:
| Feature | Slang | Colloquial |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Informal words or phrases used in place of standard terms | Informal words or expressions used in a specific region or time period |
| Formality | More informal than colloquial language | Somewhat more formal than slang |
| Usage | Predominantly used by certain groups of people (e.g., teenagers, sports fans) | Used in everyday conversations and understood only in a particular region or location |
| Examples | "Old fogey" (old person), "Bee's knees" (excellent), "Skiving" (avoiding work or school) | "Ain't" for "is not", "wasn't" for "was not", "over yonder" for "over there" |
| Acceptability | Not appropriate in formal writing | Not always suitable for formal writing, but may be used in casual speaking situations |
Both slang and colloquial language are spoken forms of the language that use informal words and expressions. While slang is more informal and often used by specific groups, colloquial language is more geographically specific and somewhat more formal.
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