Slang is a type of quite informal communication that is usually limited to a specific group of people or place. However, knowing slang terms is an important aspect of mastering the English language. Slang is made up of made-up terms or word manipulations, and it may be quite confusing because the words may appear familiar yet signify something completely different in context. If you’re a non-native English speaker who wants to improve your English to an upper-intermediate or advanced level, you’ll need to master slang. Let’s look at some slang expressions that are widely used in American English today.
Learning tip: Don’t try to memorize the entire list in one sitting. Instead, incorporate them into your vocabulary flashcards and memorize a few each day. Most crucial, when practicing English, attempt to employ these slang phrases in real discussions with native speakers.
1) Bonkers
– crazy, silly, mad.
For example, the kids went bonkers at the birthday party; they ran around laughing and shouting for hours.
2) Munch out
– eat a lot of food quickly.
For example, after not eating all day John munched out on dinner.
3) Fab
– shortened form of fabulous; exceptionally good, impressive.
For example, Jane’s friends thought her new designer dress was fab.
4) Screw-up
– someone who always makes mistakes and gets things wrong.
For example, after failing his driving test for the third time, James knew that his friends would think that he’s a screw-up.
5) Pissed off
– angry, annoyed, upset.
For example, John was pissed off about the damage caused to his car after the accident.
6) Sucks
– an expression of disappointment.
For example, it really sucks that your flight was delayed and you had to miss your friend’s wedding.
7) Rip-off
– a fraud or overpriced.
For example, you can buy cheap rip-off Louboutin bags in Thailand. Or I paid a lot of money for this car and now it won’t start; what a rip-off.
8) Love handles
– of flesh or fat on the side of a person’s torso that sticks out above the waistband.
For example, the jeans were too tight on her and you could see her love handles sticking out.
9) Humongous
– very very large.
For example, for a month the students hadn’t put out their rubbish for the collection so they had a humongous pile that they had to deal with.
10) Goofy
– silly, wacky, fun, playful.
For example, Tim was excited about his first date with his new girlfriend; when he collected her he had a goofy grin on his face.
The English language has a significant amount of slang. When it comes to slang, a lack of comprehension can cause a variety of issues, including miscommunication and anxiety for the individual who doesn’t understand. If you want to boost your English communication to the next level, devote time and effort to mastering slang words and phrases.