Slang, a constantly evolving language, flows into many of our daily conversations. The change of slang from generation to generation hastens as more ways for spreading new words and phrases switch from physical to virtual conversation.
“Slang reflects culture, identity and generational values,” Advanced English II teacher Mackenzie Blank said. “Understanding slang helps us stay in touch with how people, especially young people, express themselves.”
By using slang, it creates a common ground between a group of people. Students utilize slang as a means of expressing themselves to those around them.
“[Slang] gives insight into what’s important to them, what they find funny or what they’re rebelling against,” Ms. Blank said. “For teachers, it’s a bridge to better communication and mutual respect.”
This form of communication benefits teachers wanting to connect with their students.
“It definitely helps me connect with my students in a more relatable way. When I understand the slang they use, even if I don’t use it myself, it shows them I’m paying attention to their world,” Ms. Blank said. “At the same time, it keeps me on my toes and reminds me to remain open-minded and adaptable.”
Social media often allows people to interact and exchange their language online, making the spread of slang easier. However, this also allows creativity to thrive and create new slang that can spread within only a few hours.
“Slang has evolved dramatically over the years, and one of the biggest changes I’ve noticed is how quickly it shifts,” Ms. Blank said. “A term that’s “in” one month can feel outdated the next, and that rapid cycle is largely due to social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.”
Even at school, students use slang when conversing with their peers.
“Sometimes, I think they use [slang] to confuse the teacher. I feel like I constantly have to ask or look up words to see what they mean,” AP Human Geography teacher Ms. Jodi Esaili said. “Other times, I don’t think they realize that they are using it, as they are just communicating with their friends.”
By understanding slang, teachers can utilize it to understand the conversations going on around them and whether they have an underlying meaning.
“It helps you see what the students are thinking,” Ms. Esaili said. “Also, it sometimes serves as an opportunity to make connections to real-world problems and ideas.”
Slang provides an overall positive effect on a community, enhancing the attitude and meaning of conversations between multiple people. People express themselves in more figurative ways when using slang, and it helps connect generations through versatile words and phrases.
“I see it as a natural and vibrant part of language. Language is always evolving, and slang is one of the most dynamic indicators of that evolution,” Ms. Blank said. “While I value standard grammar and vocabulary, I also appreciate how slang brings energy and personality to language.”
