What is the Difference Between Slang and Dialect?

The main difference between slang and dialect lies in their nature and scope. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

• Slang: Slang is an informal, nonstandard variety of speech that consists of newly coined and rapidly changing words and phrases. It is typically used among peers and is more common among young people than older individuals. Slang is often associated with specific social groups or subcultures and is considered inappropriate in formal situations. It is essentially a vocabulary-based phenomenon.
• Dialect: Dialect is a variety of a language spoken in a particular geographical area or by a particular group of people. It encompasses differences in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Dialects can be standard or nonstandard, and they are often associated with specific regions or communities. In contrast to slang, dialect is a more comprehensive system of speech that includes grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary.

In summary, slang refers to informal and rapidly changing vocabulary, while dialect is a more comprehensive system of speech that includes variations in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. The two are not mutually exclusive, as different dialects can have their own slang.

Comparative Table: Slang vs Dialect

Here is a table highlighting the differences between slang and dialect:

Slang is an informal type of language that is unique to particular social groups or situations and often includes new meanings for existing words or newly invented words. It is more of a lexical thing, focusing on specific words and phrases. On the other hand, a dialect is a variety of a language that is geographically bound to a specific region and may have its own distinct vocabulary, grammar, and accent. While slang is generally informal, dialects can be formal or informal and may differ from the standardized version of the language.