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Forums Discussion room – slang My thoughts on slang

  • My thoughts on slang

    Posted by Agnes Szili on July 21, 2025 at 12:44 pm

    I don’t think people who use slang are lazy. In my mother tongue (Hungarian) sometimes I don’t even notice if I use slang words. The only time I am aware of using them is when I use slang I have learnt from my 18-year-old son, because I do it on purpose, I am so amazed how creative youngsters are to come up with these expressions.

    One reason why I have signed up for this course is that I want to speak more natural English, which would mean to include more varied slang and colloquial phrases in my speech.

    I am quite certain when I should not use slang words, e.g. in any kind of formal communication situations (letters, speeches, academic writing).

    “In your opinion, do you need to use this kind of language to communicate with non-native speakers?” It depends on the level of English they speak. Of course, my main aim is to be understood, to get the message through.

    Kerin replied 6 days, 17 hours ago 2 Members · 1 Reply
  • 1 Reply
  • Kerin

    Administrator
    August 31, 2025 at 11:31 am

    I like how you explained this. I agree that slang isn’t lazy. I think it can actually be really creative, especially the kind young people come up with, like you mentioned with your son. I think it’s smart that you want to sound more natural in English by using colloquial phrases, while also knowing when to avoid them in formal situations.

    I also agree with you about non-native speakers. This is very important. It really depends on their level. Sometimes slang makes conversations friendlier, but other times it’s best to keep it simple so the meaning is clear.
    Notes:
    Your writing is very clear and easy to follow, no major errors and nive wide vocabulary use. Just a few small points where it could sound a bit smoother in English:

    “One reason why I have signed up for this course”
    → More natural as: “One reason I signed up for this course.”

    “Of course, my main aim is to be understood, to get the message through.”
    → Could be a little smoother: “Of course, my main aim is to be understood and to get my message across.”

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