Slang is more than just informal speech; it's a dynamic aspect of language that reflects cultural shifts, social identity, and ongoing linguistic evolution. For students, understanding "Slang: Evolution, Society, and Education" provides crucial insights into how language functions in the real world, preparing them for diverse communication challenges. This article explores slang's origins, its role in society, and the ongoing debate about its place in educational settings.
The Evolution of Slang: A Shifting Linguistic Landscape
Slang has always been an integral part of Britain's rich language, from the historical Cockney rhyming calls of East End traders to modern-day youth expressions. Linguists like Paul Kerswill, professor of sociolinguistics at Lancaster University, observe a fascinating evolution.
The Rise of Multicultural English
Professor Kerswill's research highlights the emergence of an entirely new dialect in London. This "multicultural English" is a composite language, blending elements of Cockney, West Indian, West African, Bangladeshi, and Kuwaiti influences. For many young people, this has become their ordinary way of speaking, rather than just a tool for fitting in with peers. Benjamin Zephaniah emphasizes that the English language's inherent flexibility is key to its nature, noting that slang once originated from specific work groups like market workers or farmers. Today, new words often come from other languages, reflecting a globalized influence.
Slang's Foreign Roots and Fluidity
Many words now considered standard English actually began as slang or were borrowed from other languages. Examples include "zoo" (from "zoological"), "pyjamas" from India, and "shampoo" from Urdu. This demonstrates that language is not a static structure but an evolving continuum. Janet from York highlights that English's adaptability, embracing new words and changes, is a reason for its widespread popularity, contrasting it with languages like French that are less accepting of foreign terms.
Slang in Society: Identity, Inclusion, and Public Presence
Slang serves a profound social function beyond mere communication. It helps define group identity and manages social boundaries.
Building and Excluding Social Groups
As slang expert Tony Thorne explains, all social groups—whether soldiers, police, or criminals—generate their own unique language. This isn't just for conveying information but actively works to include members within the group and exclude outsiders. Slang, therefore, carries a strong social, political, and emotional charge. It's about belonging and recognition.
Increased Public Visibility of Slang
Mr. Thorne notes that slang hasn't necessarily become more prevalent, but rather "more public." In earlier decades, like the punk era of the 1970s and 80s, newspapers rarely printed slang. Today, constraints are fewer, with slang appearing widely in media, TV soaps, and rap lyrics. This increased visibility means slang is "much more in your face" than ever before.
The Challenge of Appropriacy
One significant concern for linguists like Tony Thorne is the concept of "appropriacy." This refers to the essential skill of using the right variety of language for the right context—for example, business jargon in meetings, formal English in exams, or slang in a school playground. However, some argue that young people are increasingly losing this sense of appropriacy, using slang indiscriminately across all situations. This can leave them ill-equipped for communication in the wider, professional world.
Education and Slang: Navigating the Debate
The impact of slang on education and professional readiness is a topic of intense discussion among educators, linguists, and the public.
Concerns Over Literacy and Professional Readiness
Teachers and principals, such as Maria Nightingale from Manchester Academy, warn that slang can "sabotage" literacy and hinder students' ability to communicate formally. Her school banned slang because many students struggled to complete sentences without phrases like "innit" or "do you know what I mean." This ban led to soaring exam results, highlighting the perceived benefits of enforcing formal language. Public servants and professionals, like interpreters, also face challenges when slang contaminates their formal communications.
Rosemary Hill, head of a leading UK interpreting school, observes that students' biggest problem is often not their foreign language knowledge, but the poor quality of English— "heavily contaminated by street slang"— into which they interpret. This makes them struggle with the formal register required for international diplomatic conferences or business meetings. Tony Cooley, a member of the public, recounted an experience where a phone shop assistant's use of "Aw righ(t) ma(t)e?" deterred him from making a purchase, suggesting slang can create an unprofessional impression.
The Case Against Banning Slang
Many argue that banning slang is impractical and counterproductive. Jamaican poet Benjamin Zephaniah states there's "no official language police" and questions when slang truly becomes everyday communication. He points out that even politicians use words like "bigging up," which originated from Jamaican slang. Charles from Hereford argues that language is an "evolving continuum" and slang is simply "avant-garde language" that may or may not become mainstream. Janet from York emphasizes that our language's fluidity should be embraced, not suppressed.
John from Glasgow and Liz from Warwickshire agree that English's strength lies in its ability to morph and change. Slang is a natural social element, irrespective of age, and attempting to fix a living language is a futile exercise. Jamie from France also points out that social networking sites and text messages are appropriate settings for slang, and that older adults use it too.
The Importance of Education and Appropriacy
Rather than banning slang, many experts advocate for education on "appropriacy." This means teaching students when and where slang is suitable. CAM from London suggests that while vernacular and dialect have always existed, people should be taught when to use them (informal settings) and when not to (formal settings like classrooms or written work). Professor Kerswill emphasizes that education is essential to understand how different social groups speak and how language relates to ethnicity or social class. He warns against the "false link between bad language and bad people."
Dan Clayton, a teacher at St Francis Xavier in Clapham, incorporates slang into the A-level syllabus. Students learn its origins, analyze it linguistically, and explore its function in conversations and links to identity. This approach helps demystify slang for older generations, making it seem less alien. Ultimately, as Benjamin Zephaniah concludes, individuals must recognize that "the way we talk affects the way people see us," which can have serious consequences. He likens slang to martial arts: "So long as you have strong foundations, you are free to improvise." The goal is not to eradicate slang, but to master its appropriate use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Slang
What is appropriacy in language?
"Appropriacy" in language refers to the skill of choosing the right variety of language for the specific context or situation. For example, using formal English in an exam, business jargon in a meeting, or slang with friends in an informal setting. It's about understanding the social and professional implications of language choices.
Does slang ruin the English language?
No, many linguists and experts argue that slang does not ruin the English language; instead, it contributes to its evolution and fluidity. English has a long history of incorporating new words, many of which started as slang. Attempting to ban or fix language is often seen as futile, as language is a living, constantly changing entity.
How does slang impact communication in professional settings?
In professional settings, a lack of awareness regarding appropriate language use can disadvantage individuals. Using slang in formal contexts like job interviews, business meetings, or client interactions can give an impression of unprofessionalism or lack of education, potentially hindering career prospects. Professionals like interpreters need to maintain a high quality of formal English to be effective.
Should schools ban slang?
There is a strong debate on whether schools should ban slang. Some schools have implemented bans and reported improved exam results and student readiness for professional life. However, many experts argue that banning slang is impossible and counterproductive. Instead, they advocate for teaching students the concept of "appropriacy" – when and where it is appropriate to use different language registers, including slang.
Where does modern slang come from?
Modern slang originates from various sources, reflecting the multicultural nature of society. It can be influenced by different cultures (e.g., West Indian, West African, Bangladeshi), specific social groups, and new technologies. Historically, slang was often tied to occupations, but today it is heavily influenced by youth culture, media, and global interactions. Many common words in English today began as slang or were borrowed from other languages.