colloquial speech

Colloquialism: Definition and Examples

Some say “soccer,” others say “football.” They’re talking about the same sport, but what they call it is a matter of colloquialism. Colloquialism is everyday language used by people of a certain region. In the UK, you might leave your “flat” to go to the “football” game, while in the US, you’d leave your “apartment” to go to the “soccer” game.

Colloquial language is casual and conversational. In fact, the word colloquial comes from the Latin word colloquium , meaning “speaking together” or “conversation.”

Using colloquial language makes writing less formal and more approachable—less “presenting to the class,” more “chatting in the hall.” It can also be used as a literary device to make character dialogue sound more authentic.

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Colloquial vs. colloquialism: What’s the difference?

Let’s quickly talk about the difference between colloquial and colloquialism, since you will see both words used to describe the same informal language. First, learn how to pronounce colloquial [kuh-LOH-kwee-uhl] and colloquialism [kuh-LOH-kwee-uh-liz-um]. 

The Merriam-Webster definition of colloquial is: “used in or characteristic of familiar and informal conversation.” The definition of colloquialism is: “a colloquial expression.” In other words, colloquial is an adjective ; colloquialism is a noun . A character’s dialogue sounds colloquial , but a character uses colloquialism to describe where they’re from.

When is colloquialism used?

Colloquial language shows up in your conversations with family and neighbors. It’s the phrases in your journal and in texts to your friends. Basically, it’s the language that you use when you’re not thinking about what language to use.

Everyday colloquial language is the opposite of formal language. Formal language has evolved slowly and is recognizable anywhere in the world that uses the language. On the contrary, colloquial language is region-dependent and develops relatively quickly. If formal and colloquial are opposite ends of the language spectrum, plain language (or neutral language) is in the center. See the following examples that use different modes of language to express the same meaning:

Formal language: It pleases me.

Colloquial language (from the New England region of the US): It’s wicked good.

Keep in mind that when language is colloquial, it might not be recognized by an automated grammar checker like Grammarly. Grammarly is still a great way to clean up mistakes and ensure your writing is clear, but if you are purposely writing in a more colloquial style, then it’s good practice to double-check your words manually to ensure it’ll be understood. This can be as simple as reading the piece out loud to yourself. Your ear will almost always catch disparities between the way you talk and the way you write. 

But it’s not just about being informal. For it to be colloquialism, it must be informal and specific to a region or country. That’s why knowing the colloquialisms of a region can help you write more believable dialogue between characters. Colloquialisms as a literary device help create setting and provide authenticity of voice .

Are colloquialisms the same thing as slang or jargon?

The short answer is: No. Slang is a linguistically innovative way of speaking—it’s fresh. Similar to colloquialisms, slang does not have to be taken literally. However, slang trends toward being more playful than colloquialisms. The most distinguishing characteristic of slang is who uses it. Slang is used within a certain demographic, which may be bound by age, race, or culture. Colloquialisms are used within a certain region, regardless of age, race, or culture.

Another related term is jargon . Jargon is common language within an occupation, industry, or activity. Phrases like “leverage,” “level set,” and “circle back” are common in business jargon . If you understand what it means to “take one for the team,” then you are at the intersection of business and sports jargon . Anyone who’s worked in a restaurant knows the difference between “BOH” and “FOH” and instinctively spins around when they hear “order up!” All of these phrases are specific to that industry and would therefore be considered jargon—not colloquialisms.

Slang can make your writing more casual, and jargon can make it more specific to a group. To determine whether your writing is full of slang, jargon, or colloquialisms, figure out who uses the words. Would your teenage cousin use it but not your grandmother? It’s probably slang. Would your coworker understand but not your little sister? It’s probably jargon. Does everyone around you, geographically, understand it? Then you’re writing colloquially. 

Colloquialisms across English dialects 

American English, Australian English, British English , Canadian English : It’s all English. But just because two countries speak the same language does not mean that their words mean the same things. Every English-speaking country has its own English colloquialisms.

For example, a “boot” in British English can mean the trunk of a car, whereas in American English it solely means a type of shoe (did you catch that pun ?). “Chips” in Australia are “fries” in America. And Americans can thank The Great British Baking Show for broadening our understanding of “ biscuits .”

Examples of English colloquialisms and their definitions

Ain’t — Same as isn’t , originally used in the American South

Ballpark — Something that is close but not exact

Rain check — Rescheduling plans for a later date

Deadset — True

Flat out — Extremely busy

What’s the John Dory? — What’s going on; what’s the gossip?

Bloody — Very, but in a slightly profane way

Knackered — Exhausted

Rubbish — Trash, or an exclamation meaning something is the same quality as trash

Whinge — To whine and complain

Click — A kilometer

Double-double — A coffee with double cream and double sugar

Toque — Warm cap or beanie

Examples of colloquialism in literature

As you can tell, colloquialisms add a regional flavor to your writing. Check out these examples of colloquialism in literature, and try to pick out how the style contributes to the setting.

“What’s the use you learning to do right when it’s troublesome to do right and ain’t no trouble to do wrong, and the wages is just the same?” — Adventures of Huckleberry Finn , Mark Twain (American colloquialism)

“‘Jes’ a little stretch down the highway,’ he says. ‘Jes’ a little stretch.’ God damn near four miles, that’s what it was! Didn’t wanta stop at the ranch gate, that’s what.” — Of Mice and Men , John Steinbeck (American colloquialism)

“Society invents a spurious convoluted logic tae absorb and change people whae’s behaviour is outside its mainstream. Suppose that ah ken aw the pros and cons, know that ah’m gaunnae huv a short life, am ah sound mind, etcetera, etcetera, but still want tae use smack? They won’t let ye dae it.” — Trainspotting , Irvine Welsh (Scottish colloquialism)

Colloquialism FAQs

What is colloquialism.

Colloquialism is informal, everyday language that is used by a specific geographical region. For example, “soccer” is a colloquial term in the United States for “football,” a colloquial term in the UK.

How does colloquialism work?

Colloquialism is developed by speakers in a certain region. In writing, colloquialism works by using common terms and phrases to create a sense of authenticity and informality and can enhance dialogue.

How does colloquialism differ from other related terms?

Colloquialism is bound by a geographical region. Related terms like slang and jargon are limited by different criteria. Slang is restricted to a certain demographic but might be geographically dispersed, and jargon is limited to a certain occupation or industry. 

Colloquialism

Definition of colloquialism.

There was a feller here once by the name of  Jim  Greeley, in the winter of ’49 – or maybe it was the spring of ’50 – I don’t recollect exactly, some how, though what makes me think it was one or the other is because I remember the big flume wasn’t finished when he first come to the camp; but anyway, he was the curiosest man about always betting on anything that turned up you ever see, if he could get anybody to bet on the other side, and if he couldn’t he’d change sides – any way that suited the other man would suit  him  – any way just so’s he got a bet,  he  was satisfied.

Common Examples of Colloquialism in Everyday Speech

Depending on a person’s demographic, they may use colloquialisms in conversation that are a reflection of their regional or even generational expression. Here are some common examples of colloquialism in everyday speech:

Examples of Colloquialism for Everyday Items

People often use colloquialisms, understood by others within their demographic, to refer to things in a unique way. However, these colloquialisms may not be understood by people outside their demographic or who are unfamiliar with the particular reference or meaning of the word. Occasionally, this can cause confusion in communication, but overall these colloquial words reflect variety within the language and colorful expression.

Examples of Colloquialisms for People

Difference between colloquialism, jargon, and slang.

Colloquialism, jargon , and slang are all types of informal speech. However, there are differences between them in terms of their purpose and origin of the expression. Colloquialisms are typically used as expressions in a particular geographic region, whereas jargon and slang are usually particular to specific groups.

Types of Colloquialisms

1. Words: Some words are spoken and understood only in one locality and outside of that locality, they are almost unknown. 2. Phrases: Some phrases, like some words, are known only in one region and not outside of that region. 3. Aphorisms : Similarly, some regions have their own aphorisms, while others have their own.

Colloquialism vs Idiom

Use of colloquialism in sentences.

1. ‘ I am totally knackered man,’ said Ross. (British English) 2. Jasper is such a flake. You can rely on him for any planning. He’ll change last minute. (American English) 3. When you are in the UK, you’ve always gotta carry your brolly. (British English) 4. I didn’t mean to cause such a kerfuffle. I just thought you knew his secret. (Canadian/Scottish English) 5. It’s not even an arvo, mate, and you wanna have lunch now ? (Australian English)

Examples of Colloquialism in Literature

Example 1: the color purple by alice walker.

Man corrupt everything, say Shug. He on your box of grits, in your head, and all over the radio. He try to make you think he everywhere. Soon as you think he everywhere, you think he God. But he ain’t. Whenever you trying to pray, and man plop himself on the other end of it, tell him to git lost, say Shug. Conjure up the flowers , wind, water, a big rock.

Example 2: The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

Grand. There’s a word I really hate. It’s a phony. I could puke every time I hear it.

Example 3: A Study of Reading Habits by Philip Larkin

When getting my nose in a book Cured most things short of school, It was worth ruining my eyes To know I could still keep cool, And deal out the old right hook To dirty dogs twice my size.

Synonyms for Colloquialism

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Definition of colloquial

Did you know.

The noun colloquy was first used in English to refer to a conversation or dialogue, and when the adjective colloquial was formed from colloquy it had a similar focus. Over time, however, colloquial developed a more specific meaning related to language that is most suited to informal conversation—and it ultimately garnered an additional, disparaging implication of a style that seems too informal for a situation. Colloquy and colloquial trace back to the Latin verb colloqui , meaning "to converse." Colloqui in turn was formed by combining the prefix com- ("with") and loqui ("to speak"). Other conversational descendants of loqui in English include circumlocution , eloquent , loquacious , soliloquy , and ventriloquism .

• conversational
• nonliterary

Examples of colloquial in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'colloquial.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

see colloquy

1751, in the meaning defined at sense 2

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Dictionary Entries Near colloquial

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Cite this Entry

“Colloquial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/colloquial. Accessed 12 Aug. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of colloquial, more from merriam-webster on colloquial.

Nglish: Translation of colloquial for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of colloquial for Arabic Speakers

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Colloquialism

Colloquialism Definition

What is colloquialism? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

Colloquialism is the use of informal words or phrases in writing or speech. Colloquialisms are usually defined in geographical terms, meaning that they are often defined by their use within a dialect , a regionally-defined variant of a larger language. Colloquialisms can include aphorisms , idioms , profanity, or other words.

Some additional key details about colloquialism:

• Colloquialism occurs frequently in everyday speech, and is also used frequently in poetry, prose, and drama.
• Writers often use colloquialism in dialogue or first-person narration, both because it helps make their characters seem more lifelike and because the way a character speaks may be one of their defining qualities.
• The word colloquialism comes from the Latin word colloquium , which means speaking together.

Colloquialism Pronunciation

Here's how to pronounce colloquialism: kuh- loh -kwee-uh-liz-um

Dialects and Colloquialisms

Because colloquialisms are informal words that appear uniquely within specific dialects, it's helpful to understand what dialects are in order to fully understand colloquialisms. The two key points about dialects are that they are:

• A language within a language: A dialect is a variant of a language that is spoken by a specific group of people. It has some unique aspects—such as unique words, accent, and other features—that make it distinct within that larger language.
• Often geographically defined: Dialects are often regional, meaning that people in a one part of the world might speak a language in a way that is different from the way another group of people in another part of the word speak the same language.

Though English speakers around the world can more or less understand each other, a person who grew up in the US will speak an English dialect with a different accent and use slightly different words than a person who grew up in the UK or a person who grew up in India. Further, different dialects can exist within a country as well as between countries. People from Louisiana in the United States often speak differently than, say, people from New York or Wisconsin.While dialects are most often geographically defined, some dialects can also be unique to a group of people who share a social class or ethnic background. For instance, cockney English is a term used to refer to the dialect of English traditionally spoken by working-class Londoners.

The term colloquialism refers specifically to the unique words that are specific to a particular dialect.

Colloquialisms: Unique Words or Common Words with Unique Meanings

Colloquialisms function in one of two main ways:

• Words or phrases that only exist in a specific dialect. Some colloquialisms are completely unique words or phrases that only appear in a particular dialect. For example, people in Philadelphia use the word jawn as a kind of universal pronoun that can replace and refer to any person, place, or thing without directly naming it. The word jawn is not commonly used by any English speakers in any other part of the world ( and in fact jawn is also a complete anomaly in terms of grammar ).
• Words or phrases that appear in many dialects, but have a unique meaning in certain dialects. Other words function as colloquialisms not because they are unique words that don't appear in other languages, but because they are common words that have different and unique meanings in different dialects. For example, in the US, English speakers use the word pants as a synonym for trousers . In the UK, however, pants is a synonym for underwear . Similarly, in some parts of the the United States, the word coke is used to refer to any kind of soft drink, while in other parts of the US it only refers to Coca-Cola .

The two types of colloquialism described above can include all sorts of different words or phrases, including unique contractions ( ain't ), profanity ( bloody, which is a profanity in the UK but not the US), and idioms ( It's raining monkeys, a variant of the idiom it's raining cats and dogs that's common in Louisiana). Colloquialisms can also be other types of words as well.

Colloquialism vs. Slang and Jargon

Colloquialism is related to (and easily confused with) slang and jargon.

• Slang refers to informal words and phrases that are used among a small group of people or a specific subculture. For example, in the movie Mean Girls , when the character Gretchen starts using the word "fetch" to mean "cool," she's trying to invent new slang within her clique (though she fails miserably in this attempt).
• Jargon refers to technical terms used by people within a specific profession or trade, and which would not make sense to people outside of that industry. For example, in the publishing industry, the word "galley" refers to a nearly-finished draft of a book or magazine that still needs to be proofread.

While there's no disagreement that colloquialism, slang, and jargon are related terms, there is some debate about how they are related:

• Slang and jargon as types of colloquialism: Some people argue that slang and jargon are actually types of colloquialism, as they are unique words (or common words with unique meanings) used by a specific subset of people.
• Slang and jargon as separate from colloquialism: Other people argue that colloquialisms always have a geographical aspect—that they must be informal words and phrases that are widely understood within a given country or region. According to this point of view, if only people in the Northwestern United states understand a term, it's a colloquialism; if only teenagers understand a term, it's slang; if only plumbers understand a term, it's jargon.

Even people who believe that jargon, slang, and colloquialism are distinct from one another tend to agree that jargon and slang terms can become colloquialisms when their use becomes widespread enough to include a significant number of people in a country or region.

Colloquialism Examples

Colloquialisms in everyday speech.

• In Minnesota, people may refer to a casserole as a hotdish .
• In the Northeast of the United States, wicked is commonly used as an intensifier similar to very or really . So if it's really cold, a person from Maine might say, "It's wicked cold out."
• In parts of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic US, people top their ice-cream with jimmies instead of sprinkles.
• Submarine sandwiches , subs , Italian sandwiches, heroes , and hoagies are all different words that appear in different parts of the United States that refer to the same type of sandwich.
• In the American South, people refer to avocados as alligator pears .
• The words pop, soda, and coke are all used to refer to soft drinks in different parts of the United States.
• Americans eat cookies but people in the UK eat biscuits .
• In the Pacific Northwest, a rundown section of a city might be referred to as skid row .

Colloquialism in Literature

Colloquialism in the adventures of huckleberry finn by mark twain.

In The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn , Mark Twain's narrator and title character, Huck Finn narrates his story using colloquial language that includes idioms and words specific to a regional dialect:

The Widow Douglas, she took me for her son, and allowed she would sivilize me; but it was rough living in the house all the time, considering how dismal regular and decent the widow was in all her ways; and so when I couldn’t stand it no longer, I lit out.

In The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Mark Twain uses colloquialism to give his characters a distinctive voice. Huck misspells civilize as "sivilize," which reveals his lack of formal education. Huck also uses "allowed" as a colloquialism for said, and he uses adjectives in an unusual and informal way in phrases like "it was rough living" and "dismal regular" (instead of "dismally regular," perhaps). The double negatives in "I couldn't stand it no longer" are an example of a regional dialect; in formal English, double negatives cancel each other out, but in casual speech, they can be used to add emphasis. When Huck says, "I lit out," he uses a colloquialism meaning "I left." All told, Huck's way of speaking helps to define his character and make him seem like a "real" person living in Missouri in the pre-Civil War time period in which the story is set.

Colloquialism in The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

In The Catcher in the Rye , the novel's teenage narrator Holden Caulfield, says:

When I was all set to go, when I had my bags and all, I stood for a while next to the stairs and took a last look down the goddam corridor. I was sort of crying. I don't know why. I put my red hunting hat on, and turned the peak around to the back, the way I liked it, and then I yelled at the top of my goddam voice, "Sleep tight, ya morons!" I'll bet I woke up every bastard on the whole floor. Then I got the hell out.

In this passage, Holden describes how he ran away from his boarding school. Throughout the novel, Holden speaks in a distinctive and casual voice filled with colloquialisms, and in this passage, his colloquialisms convey his anger and desire to rebel against the "phonies" at his school. Holden swears a lot, and one of his favorite curse words throughout the novel is goddam , which is also an informal contraction. Salinger conveys Holden's emotional distress by telling us that Holden is "sort of crying." The phrase "Sleep tight, ya morons!" is colloquial in several senses: sleep tight is an idiom, ya is a colloquialism for you, and moron is debatably either a colloquialism or slang. Bastard is arguably yet another colloquialism, since its use here as a catch-all derogatory word is different from the word's literal meaning of a child born out of wedlock.

Colloquialism in A Visit From the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan

In A Visit From the Goon Squad , washed-up, alcoholic rock star Bosco says:

"I want interviews, features, you name it," Bosco went on. "Fill up my life with that shit. Let's document every fucking humiliation. This is reality, right? You don't look good anymore twenty years later, especially when you've had half your guts removed. Time's a goon, right? Isn't that the expression?"

In this passage, Bosco unintentionally invents a new expression, "Time's a goon." Because this phrase is not a widely used expression, it isn't actually a colloquialism (though perhaps it might eventually grow into one if other people picked it up). Nonetheless, Bosco's speech is littered with actual colloquialisms, including profanity and his use of the word "guts" to describe his liver, that establish him as a character of his time and place.

Colloquialism in Othello by William Shakespeare

In Othello , the villainous Iago tells Brabantio, Desdemona's father:

'Zounds, sir, you are one of those that will not serve God, if the devil bid you

'Zounds sounds like a nonsense word to English speakers today, but it was a common colloquialism in Early Modern English, the dialect spoken in England during Shakespeare's lifetime. 'Zounds is an informal contraction of the phrase Christ's Wounds , and in Elizabethan England, it was considered a mild swear word. Here, Iago uses 'zounds to express a sense of frustration with Brabantio.

Colloquialism in "The Day Lady Died" by Frank O'Hara

Frank O'Hara's poetry is laced with slang and pop cultural references that may have been obscure to others even at the time he was writing, in the 1950s—but just because some of the words in this famous poem may be unclear to modern readers doesn't mean they're colloquialisms. "Quandariness," for example, is a word made up by the poet—not an example of colloquialism. The word "malted," however, is a colloquialism—an adjective used in the place of a noun, and a quick way to refer to a "malted milkshake." It was used only in the United States when O'Hara wrote the poem (and is barely in use any longer).

I walk up the muggy street beginning to sun and have a hamburger and a malted and buy an ugly NEW WORLD WRITING to see what the poets in Ghana are doing these days I go on to the bank and Miss Stillwagon (first name Linda I once heard) doesn’t even look up my balance for once in her life and in the GOLDEN GRIFFIN I get a little Verlaine for Patsy with drawings by Bonnard although I do think of Hesiod, trans. Richmond Lattimore or Brendan Behan’s new play or Le Balcon or Les Nègres of Genet, but I don’t, I stick with Verlaine after practically going to sleep with quandariness

Why Do Writers Use Colloquialism?

Because real people constantly use colloquialism in their every day speech, writers use colloquialism to create realistic voices for their characters, both in dialogue and first-person narration . Colloquialism can be an excellent tool for characterization because a person's use of colloquialisms and the dialect they speak can help denote the region or country they come from, their socio-economic or ethnic background, and even the period of time in which they live (the first scene of the play Pygmalion actually shows a scholar identify people's background from how they speak). In The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn , Mark Twain uses colloquialism to show that his narrator and main character, Huck Finn, comes from a specific region of the South (from Missouri, along the Missouri River) and lacks a formal education. Huck's colloquialisms are frank and vividly descriptive, which also gives a dynamic energy to his voice. To Twain's contemporaries, Huck would have sounded like a person from their own time; and to modern readers, Huck's colloquialisms help situate him in the nineteenth-century.

Writers also use colloquialism naturally—and even without expressly meaning to—for the simple reason that writers are living people who live in specific regions with specific dialects and so they often speak and think in colloquialisms. A writer's way of thinking and talking in casual conversation may drift unconsciously into their own writing—or they may be purposefully attempting to capture their way of speaking on the page. Bloggers and magazine writers, for example, often aim to write in a conversational tone that will make their articles engaging, humorous, unique, and easy to read.

Colloquialism is a central component of day-to-day speech, and so it is an essential tool for writers who want their voice to sound natural, or who want their characters' voices to sound natural.

Other Helpful Colloquialism Resources

• The Wikipedia entry on colloquialism: A short but solid entry , with some coverage of the difference between colloquialism, jargon, and slang.
• Colloquial woodlice: English-speakers around the world have at least twenty different colloquialisms to describe woodlice, a common insect. Check out this list of names for the creepy-crawlies on the website Mental Floss.
• New colloquialisms: For a list of words recently added to the Oxford English Dictionary, check out this web site. Many of these words are now widely understood as colloquialisms, but were once considered to be slang.
• A colloquial test: This quiz from the New York Times uses colloquialisms distinct to regional dialects in different parts of the US to predict where you grew up.

• Characterization
• Foreshadowing
• Figurative Language
• Alliteration
• Connotation
• Understatement
• Extended Metaphor
• Stream of Consciousness
• Verbal Irony
• Antimetabole

• Quizzes, saving guides, requests, plus so much more.

Colloquialisms: What Are Colloquialisms? Definition and Examples

If you want to know what colloquialisms are and how to use them in your writing, you've come to the right place. This article will teach you everything you need to know.

• Colloquialisms are a type of informal speech used and understood by specific subgroups and used in casual conversation.

This guide is part of our free online Grammar Book .

What Are Colloquialisms?

'Colloquialism' is a noun to refer to colloquial language. This means it's part of informal language, which is pretty much the opposite of formal language types like academic writing .

• It's primarily used in conversation, except when used as a literary device or in informal settings like social media or texting with your friends and family.

Many colloquial words and phrases already exist, while others are created from non-colloquial words that have taken on a second meaning due to continued use. Take the word ' sweet ,' for example. Its primary meaning is to identify something that tastes like sugar, but nowadays, you can use it colloquially to mean something is good or that you're happy about it.

Here are some examples of common colloquialisms:

• memaw (grandmother)
• Boo or bae (significant other)
• bite the bullet (do something unpleasant)
• wicked (very)
• fixing to (preparing to)
• soda (soft drink)
• spill the beans (reveal information)
• catch ya (see you)
• bomb (to do poorly)
• take a rain check (reschedule)

Notice how some colloquialisms are individual words, and some are phrases.

• The thing about colloquialisms in English is that while some are universal, others can differ from country to country, even if English is the primary spoken language in all these countries.

Look at the following examples of colloquialisms specific to different English-speaking countries:

flat out (very busy) lolly (candy) barbie (barbecue)

United Kingdom

flat (apartment) baccie (tobacco) brolly (umbrella)

canuck (Canadian) clicks (kilometers) keener (eager to please)

United States

wheels (vehicle) amped (excited) salty (bitter)

Colloquialisms can ever differ within different parts of the country. Mention 'pogonip' in Nevada, and they'll know you're referring to thick fog but say the word in Minnesota, and chances are they won't know what you're talking about.

When to Use Colloquialisms

The first bit of advice I want to give you when it comes to colloquialisms is not to overuse or misuse them. They can add color to your writing and even a little humor if employed correctly. Still, equally, if you're not careful, they can easily confuse your reader or make your text appear inappropriate.

Colloquial language is always appropriate if you're chatting with some friends or family members over text or on social media. You might even be able to use it in other contexts, like blog writing. You might have noticed I used the word 'chatting' in the first sentence of this paragraph. It came across okay, didn't it? That's because I was sure you would know what this word means.

So before using colloquial language, think about the kind of people who will read your writing. What generation are they from? Which country and region? Are you sure they'll be familiar with the words you're using? If so, go for it.

Colloquialisms are also great as a literary device:

• In narration , to recreate dialogue between two characters.
• To match the setting if your story is set in a specific period or place.
• To fit the character's background, if you're writing a fictional book

Colloquialisms vs Slang

Slang is another type of informal language, but it isn't exactly the same as colloquialisms. The difference lies mainly in the fact that slang is usually a trend. Most slang words currently being used weren't used just a few years ago, and they will no longer be used in another few years.

Here are some examples of slang you rarely hear anymore or would be considered "uncool" or "dad joke":

• Can you dig it?
• catch ya on the flip side

Colloquial language, on the other hand, is considered standard English, so it's here to stay. Having said that, there are definitely some exceptions to this, like the slang words 'fam' (close friend) and 'grub' (food) which have been used for many years.

Slang is also quite specific to a particular demographic, determined by age, ethnicity, culture, etc. For example, you're more likely to hear slang from a teenager or someone in their twenties than someone in their forties . And it isn't bound by the usual grammar and syntax conventions. Slang can be regional, cultural, or subcultural.

Here are some examples of common slang:

• extra (when something is over-the-top, in a good or bad way)
• it hits different (something that hits different is better than the rest)
• low-key (to downplay something)
• thirsty (trying to get attention)
• flex (show off)

Are Idioms Colloquial?

An idiom is an expression that uses words in a different way than their original meaning. This means you can't just look at the words to understand what the sentence means.

A popular idiom, for example, is ' to stab someone in the back .' When we talk about stabbing someone in the back, it doesn't mean we're literally going to do it; it means 'to betray.' So you might say your colleague stabbed you in the back by telling your boss they did all the work and didn't credit you.

So are idioms colloquial, or can you use them in formal contexts? The answer is that yes, they can be both. So you can use them in your casual and formal writing .

Some idioms, however, come across as more conversational than formal, such as:

The exam was a total piece of cake . Hang in there ; I know times are tough but things will get better. You're barking up the wrong tree ; I'm not responsible for this.

Conversely, some idioms come across as more formal, like the following:

You look pensive; penny for your thoughts ? Well done for learning this new skill! You can add another string to your bow . You've said many times that you would fix the roof but so far you haven't done it. Don't you know that actions speak louder than words ?

There's no official way of knowing which idioms are formal and which are colloquial; it's just something you'll know intuitively over time as you use them more and more and expose yourself to high-quality writing and read grammar blogs like these.

Concluding Thoughts

That concludes this article on colloquial language. I hope you found it helpful.

Let's summarize what we've learned:

• Colloquial language is used in informal situations, unlike formal and academic writing.
• You can use it with friends and family in conversation, texting, social media, or email.
• You can also use it in your formal writing as a literary device.
• Colloquialisms differ from slang, which is trendy and mostly doesn't stick around.
• Some idioms are considered colloquial, while others are considered formal. Others can fit into any category.
• Don't overuse colloquialisms in your writing. 

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Colloquialism: Definition and Examples (PDF)

Today, we embark on a journey to explore the fascinating world of colloquialism in the English language. Colloquialism, also known as everyday language, plays an important role in understanding and connecting with native English speakers in informal settings.

By mastering colloquial expressions, you will improve your ability to engage in natural conversations and truly grasp the nuances of everyday English. In this article, we will define colloquialism, discuss its importance, and provide you with practical examples to expand your linguistic skills. Colloquial language used in your conversations with family and neighbors.

What is Colloquialism?

Colloquialism refers to the informal and relaxed way people communicate in everyday spoken language. It is characterized by regional phrases, idiomatic expressions, and everyday vocabulary specific to certain social groups or dialects. Colloquial language allows for a more casual and familiar tone, making conversations feel authentic and relatable. Remember everyday colloquial language is the opposite of formal language.

Mastering colloquialism is essential for ESL learners as it enables effective communication in informal situations. Understanding and using colloquial expressions will help you build rapport with native English speakers, showcase cultural awareness, and improve your overall fluency. It allows you to connect on a deeper level and truly immerse yourself in the language.

Examples of Colloquialism

Y’all : It’s a shortened form of “you all.” Example, “Are y’all coming from Kansas huh?”

Buzz off : It’s used to say someone to go away in a rude way. Example: Buzz off! I am very busy, can’t you see?

Feeling blue : It means feeling sad. Example, “My sister has been feeling blue all day.”

Gonna and wanna : These are colloquial contractions for “going to” and “want to.” Example, “You’re gonna wanna see this!”

Go nuts : It means to go crazy. Example, “Your mom is gonna go nuts when she sees what you’ve done to your room.”

Being chicken : It refers to being scared. Example, “Don’t be a chicken, just go and ask her out.”

Ain’t : It’s a colloquial form of “is not.” Example, “I ain’t going anywhere from here.”

Ace : It means something really good. Example, “Have you heard her dance? She’s ace!”

Cheers : Can be used as a “thank you” or “goodbye”. Example, “Cheers for the drinks!”, “Cheers! I see you tomorrow.”

What’s the buzz : It’s a colloquial way of asking if there is any news to report.

Bae : It’s a more recent colloquialism used to refer to a boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse. Example, “I’m really bored at home, I wish my bae was here now.”

English colloquialisms for Different Countries

United States of America Ain’t – Same as isn’t Ballpark – Something that is close but not exact Rain check – Rescheduling plans for a later date

Australian Deadset – True Flat out – Extremely busy What’s the John Dory? – What’s up; what’s the gossip?

British Bloody – Something like “very” Knackered – Exhausted, very tired Rubbish – worthless, untrue, or nonsense Wicked – Perfect or excellent

Canadian Click – A kilometer Double-double – A coffee with double cream and double sugar Toque – Warm cap or beanie

Colloquial Expressions List

Remember that colloquial expressions are primarily used in informal speech and should be used appropriately based on the context and the relationship with the person you are communicating with. As an ESL student, it’s important to familiarize yourself with these colloquialisms to improve your understanding of everyday English conversations.

Common Colloquialisms PDF

  Common Colloquialisms PDF – download

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Colloquialism: Definition and Useful Examples of Colloquialism

You may have heard the term colloquialism when thinking about the English language, but what exactly is this and what is its function? In this article, we are going to look at an in depth definition of colloquialism as well as finding out what it is used for. We will go even further into the subject by viewing some examples of how colloquialism in used in both day to day conversation and as a literary device.

Colloquialism

Colloquialism definition.

Colloquialism is also known as colloquial language and is a form of speaking which uses an informal tone and words. It is used in a casual context and is much more easy to listen to and read than a more formal text or conversation. When using colloquialism as a figure of speech, one would expect to hear terms which are not technical and language which is idiomatic and not specialist.

Colloquialism can be used as a literary device , and this is more common than you might think especially in pieces of work where the author wants to speak to the reader on a more informal level. It can help a writer to make a point much more easy to understand and can cause the text to be less intimidating to read.

Depending on where you are in the world will depend on the colloquialisms you will hear in every day speech., for example English speaking countries such as the UK, the USA and Australia all have very different colloquial expressions and what is used in one country, may make no sense in another. Although, that being said, most English speaking countries have a knowledge of the colloquialisms used in other countries and so would know what you were referring to.

Colloquialism Examples

Colloquialism in conversation.

During you day to day conversations, you will probably notice that colloquial language is used far more often than any sort of formal speech. We are now going to take a look at some colloquialisms which you may come across during casual conversation.

• Y’all is used as a shortened version of ‘you all’ For example, “ are y’all coming to the movies this weekend? “
• Buzz off is used to tell someone to go away.
• Being blue is used to refer to being sad. For example, “ my brother has been blue all day .”
• Frequent colloquialisms used are gonna and wanna which refer to the phrases ‘going to’ and ‘want to’. For example, “ You’re gonna wanna see this! “
• To go nuts is colloquial language for going crazy. For example, “ My dad is going to go nuts when he sees what I’ve done to his car .”
• Being chicken means to be scared. For example, “ Don’t be a chicken, just go and ask him out .”
• Ain’t is colloquial language for is not. For example, “ I ain’t going to read that book, it looks boring .”
• The word ace is used to talk about something really good. For example, “ Have you heard her sing, she is ace .”
• The word cheers is often used colloquially in place of thank you. For example “ Cheers for picking up my breakfast from the take out cafe .”
• To take a rain check is a common colloquialism which means to cancel plans until a later date. For example “ I’m not feeling too great, can we take a rain check on lunch today ?”
• To freak out is colloquial language meaning to get worked up. For example, “ I am going to totally freak out if I don’t pass this test .”
• Using the term ‘what’s the buzz’ is a colloquial way of asking if there is any news to report.
• A more recent colloquialism is the word bae, which is used to refer to a boyfriend or girlfriend, or indeed a spouse. For example “ I’m really missing bae right now, he’s away on vacation until next week. “

Colloquialism In Literature

As we mentioned earlier, authors will sometimes use colloquialism in their writing in order to make the piece of writing sound more natural and how it might sound in a real life situation. The terms used can be slang terms or informal phrases and words, making the text a lot more easily digestible.

• In Mark Twain’s The adventures of Huckleberry Finn, he used colloquial speech to give his characters more authentic feel, this is seen in the following example. “ I don’t wanna go back there no more .” I didn’t cuss anymore as the window did not like it but from time to time I did it again because pap didn’t have any objections .”
• In Burro genius written by Victor Villasenor, there are many examples of colloquialism, most notably in the following extract; “‘ I don’t understand.’ my father roared as he put his money back into the pocket . ‘ Hell, I have forgotten more than most people, even you would understand’ ‘Salvodor ,’ my mother said quietly ‘ You and Mundo should go outside whilst I speak to this woman by myself.’ ‘Damn great idea .’ my father said.
• In John Steinbeck’s Of mice and men, there are many excellent examples of colloquial language throughout the text, one such example can be seen in the following statement. “ Don’t allow him to drag you in – but if that son of a b*tch clocks you then let ‘im have it .”
• We are now going to look at another example from Huckleberry Finn where the writer uses colloquialism in the following sentence. “ What’s the use in you learning right when it is too troublesome doing right and ain’t any trouble doing wrong ?”
• In The catcher in the rye we can see another example of colloquial language when viewing the following passage. “ Once I was all ready to go, once I had my bags and everything, I stood next to the stairs for a while to take one more look down that Goddamn corridor .”

Colloquial language is something that you are going to come across very frequently when speaking and reading in the English language. It is a way of speaking that is casual and is used in many informal conversations. It is also used in a literary context by writers when they wish to give the piece of writing a less formal tone and is a great way to connect with the reader.

Colloquialism Infographic

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Understanding Colloquialism (Definition, Examples, in Literature)

What is colloquialism? How does it work? Is it another language? These are all adequate and proper questions that you may have when it comes to understanding colloquialism. To learn all about this unique device, continue reading .

What is colloquialism?

Colloquialism , also known as colloquial language, is basically an informal language or everyday language used in casual or friendly conversation. It is one of the most common functional styles of speech employed in informal contexts.

Colloquialism is also called “a regional or local dialect expression” or a “colloquial expression.”

What are the significant features of colloquialism?

Colloquialisms can often be found in conversations between friends, colleagues, and family. People use them in texts, journal entries, or letters to their loved ones. Colloquial language is the opposite of formal language and is usually a common part of a person’s everyday speech.

Common examples of colloquialism include words like “wanna,” “gotta,” “ain’t,” “rain check,” etc.

Colloquialisms are one of the most interesting elements of the English language. They are region-dependent and often change with the change in dialect. If used correctly, colloquialisms can help writers in making their work more emotionally appealing to the readers of a particular region.

Let’s have a look at some major features of colloquialism:

1. Colloquialisms are region-dependent

One of the most unique qualities of colloquialisms is that they depend on the language used by the regional population. Depending on geographical locations and the people living there , colloquialisms keep on changing.

2. Colloquialisms are very diverse

Since colloquialisms are region-dependent, they are incredibly diverse in nature. Every country, region, or city has its own colloquialisms with unique meanings that only the people living there relate to.

For example, the colloquial phrase “it’s raining cats and dogs” refers to heavy rainfall almost everywhere in the world. But people living in the State of Louisiana use the phrase “it’s raining monkeys” to say that it is raining heavily outside.

Some other common colloquialisms used in America include words and phrases like:

• “Ain’t” – It has the same meaning as isn’t .
• “What’s up” – Used for asking someone how they are, what they are up to, or what is happening.
• “You bet” – It means “certainly.”
• “Same here” – It means “the same applies to me .”
• “Rain check” – It is a colloquialism used for rescheduling a plan for a later date.

On the other hand, Canada has its own set of colloquialisms. Some major ones include:

• “Clicks” – It is used to denote kilometers.
• “Darts” – They mean cigarettes.
• “Double-double” – Refers to a coffee with double sugar and double cream.

3. Colloquialisms are different across different dialects

Another distinct feature of colloquialisms is that they differ according to the English dialects. For example, American English, British English, Australian English, and Canadian English are all forms of the English language. However, they are not the same.

They have different nuances, spellings, and thus, different colloquialisms. Even the same word has a different meaning in these countries.

For example, the word “pant” is used to represent underwear in British English while it represents trousers in American English. Similarly, “fries” in America are equal to “chips” in Australia.

Are colloquialisms, slang, and jargon the same?

Colloquialisms, slang, and jargon are often confused to be the same. While all three of them are types of speech and writing styles, there are several differences that set them apart from one another.

Let’s have a closer look at all three of them:

• Colloquialisms: Basically, colloquialisms are words and phrases that are used in informal or everyday language. They are used by people of a specific region and are different across different dialects.
• Slang: Slang words are highly informal in nature and are created by specific social or cultural groups. The most unique thing about slang words is that they can only be traced to small groups of people. The major difference between colloquialisms and slang words is that while colloquialisms are defined regionally, slang words are defined culturally. Some common slangs include words like “lit,” “hangry,” “flex,” “slay,” and more.
• Jargon: Jargons are technical words that majorly belong to a specific profession, academic discipline, or trade. They differ from colloquialisms and slangs in the sense that while they are used in informal writing, jargon words are used in formal and academic writing. For example, there are medical jargons like abscess, benign, anti-inflammatory, etc. that ordinary people can’t understand easily.

When are colloquialisms helpful?

While colloquialisms are generally used in informal speech and writing, they can help writers in several ways. Here are some cases where colloquialisms can be incredibly useful:

• They give life to a boring piece of literature: Since colloquialisms are informal words and phrases, they can be used to make a plain and boring piece of writing interesting.
• They help the writers in connecting with the audience: When used for a long period , colloquialisms become an inseparable part of a region. When writing for a specific audience, using colloquialisms can help the writer in connecting with the readers on an emotional level. It makes the story, article, or whatever piece the writer is writing more relatable to the audience. For example, the widely celebrated author Agatha Christie frequently used French colloquialisms in her work.
• It helps in building characters in fictional writing : When writing a fictional story or a novel, using colloquialisms can help in building the characters and making them more authentic. For example, if a character is based in Scotland, using Scotland-specific colloquialisms can help the writer in highlighting their background and enhancing their character.

Thus, unless a writer is specifically writing in a formal tone or for an academic purpose, using colloquialisms can bring life to a simple piece of work.

As discussed above, colloquialisms are region-specific words and expressions used informal speech and writing. People generally use colloquialisms in texts or when they talk to their friends, neighbors, or loved ones.

In the English language, colloquialisms work by creating a sense of authenticity and closeness. They make the writing emotionally appealing so that it has a better chance of connecting with the audience.

Since colloquialisms differ from region to region and from dialect to dialect, there are innumerable colloquialisms. Some common examples include the following:

a) Examples of British colloquialisms

• Bloke – A man
• Blimey – A reason for surprise/ a surprising element
• Cheeky – A bold person
• Boot – The trunk of a vehicle
• Posh – Something that is incredibly luxurious or fancy
• Dog’s dinner – It is a phrase used for a chaotic or a very untidy situation
• Knackered – It is used to express that a person is exhausted

b) Examples of American colloquialisms

• Ballpark – a statement that is very close to reality/ an almost true statement
• Score – To accomplish your goals
• Riding shotgun – To travel on the front passenger seat of a car, jeep, or truck
• Wheels – A vehicle
• Looker – A compliment used for an extremely good-looking person

c) Examples of Australian colloquialisms

• Cobber – A very good and close friend
• Bludger – A lazy person
• Mongrel – An extremely irritating person
• Furphy – Things that are false/ gossip or rumors
• Arvo – Afternoon

d) Examples of Canadian colloquialisms

• Chirping – To insult or mock someone
• Eh – An expression used to agree to something
• Gon show – A messy situation that is no longer under the control of anyone
• Click – Used to describe one kilometer
• Skid – A kid belonging to an extremely poor family
• Wikipedia – Colloquialisms
• Merriam-Webster Dictionary – Definition
• Grammarly – Colloquialisms: Definition and examples
• MasterClass – What Is a Colloquialism

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About the author

Dalia Y.: Dalia is an English Major and linguistics expert with an additional degree in Psychology. Dalia has featured articles on Forbes, Inc, Fast Company, Grammarly, and many more. She covers English, ESL, and all things grammar on GrammarBrain.

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Home » English » Colloquialism

Colloquialism

kəˈləʊkwiəlɪzəm

Pronunciation:

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Making Sense of Informal English: The World of Colloquialism

Comprehensive Definition, Description, Examples & Rules 

What is colloquial language?

Colloquialisms are informal expressions used in everyday conversations, adding flavour and personality to our interactions within specific regions or social groups. These informal language choices deviate from formal or standard speech, often incorporating regional dialects, slang, or even humorous idioms. Colloquialisms spice up our chats, adding that touch of familiarity and informality. They bridge the gap, connecting us on a deeper level and making casual conversations truly come alive. Now, let’s explore various examples of colloquialisms that bring colour and character to our daily interactions.

• “Break a leg” – Wishing someone good luck.
• “Piece of cake” – Referring to something that is easy or effortless.
• “Hit the road” – Meaning to leave or start a journey.
• “Bite the bullet” – Facing a difficult or unpleasant situation head-on.
• “Catch some Z’s” – Referring to getting some sleep.
• “Hang tight” – Asking someone to wait or remain patient.
• “Spill the beans” – Revealing a secret or sharing confidential information.
• “Put on your thinking cap” – Encouraging someone to think or brainstorm.
• “Rain cats and dogs” – Describing heavy rainfall.

Mastering colloquialisms is crucial for effective communication in English. These informal expressions and idiomatic language are prevalent in everyday conversations, providing insights into cultural references, regional dialects, and informal communication. Understanding colloquialisms empowers us to connect deeply with native speakers, convey thoughts naturally, and adapt socially. It enhances fluency and overall language proficiency, enabling richer and more authentic interactions in English.

Characteristics of Colloquial Language

In this segment, we delve into the essential features that define colloquialism within the realm of language. Through a focused exploration, we aim to provide an insightful understanding of colloquial language’s informal nature, dynamic expressions, and cultural influences.

Informal tone and style

While formal language adheres to established rules, conventions, and structured patterns, informal language embraces a relaxed, casual tone and style. Informal language incorporates colloquial expressions, slang, and abbreviations, fostering a sense of familiarity and informality among speakers. Understanding the disparities between these two forms of communication is crucial for navigating various social contexts effectively.

The below colloquial language examples showcase the casual and relaxed nature of colloquial language, characterized by its use of slang, contractions, informal greetings, and expressions commonly used in everyday conversations.

• “Hey, what’s up?”
• “I gotta run to the store real quick.”
• “She totally nailed that performance!”
• “I’m feeling kinda under the weather today.”
• “I’m beat, gonna crash early tonight.”

Using an informal tone in communication offers certain benefits and drawbacks. On the one hand, employing an informal tone fosters a sense of closeness and affinity, heightening engagement and relatability in interactions. It aids in building rapport and cultivating an informal ambience. However, it is important to acknowledge the associated drawbacks. Informal communication might lack professionalism, rendering it unsuitable for formal or professional contexts. Additionally, there is a risk of confusion or exclusion for those unfamiliar with colloquial language or cultural references. Striking the delicate balance between informality and clarity becomes imperative to ensure communication that is both effective and inclusive.

Use of slang and idioms

Understanding colloquial language requires grasping the definitions of slang and idioms. Slang refers to informal words or phrases specific to social groups, fostering camaraderie. Idioms, on the other hand, are figurative expressions that add colour and cultural flavour to conversations. By unravelling the nuances of slang and idioms, we gain insight into how language reflects our shared experiences and evolving social dynamics.

Examples of slang and idioms in colloquial language

The colloquial language examples below illustrate the vibrant and informal nature of colloquial language, incorporating slang and idioms that add flair and expressiveness to everyday conversations.

• “Break a leg” – Good luck!
• “Hang out” – Spend time together casually.
• “Chill” – Relax or take it easy.
• “Piece of cake” – Something very easy.

Cultural context plays a vital role in understanding their meaning, as nuances and references hold the key. Grasping this context enriches language comprehension and reveals the intricacies and humour of these linguistic gems. Delving into the cultural backdrop behind slang and idioms opens doors to deeper connections and a nuanced understanding of informal communication’s colourful tapestry.

Regional variations and dialects

In understanding colloquial language, it is essential to explore the intriguing realm of regional variations. These variations arise from a multitude of factors, such as geography, history, and cultural influences. From the distinct accents and vocabulary choices of different regions to the unique expressions and idioms that reflect local traditions, regional variations add depth and richness to colloquial speech. By examining the explanations behind these variations, we gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse tapestry of human communication.

Colloquialism examples of dialects in English-speaking countries From the Southern drawl of the United States to the lyrical lilt of Ireland, immerse yourself in the colourful symphony of English-speaking nations below: In the United States:

• Southern dialect: The Southern dialect is a captivating linguistic tapestry, woven with its own unique idiosyncrasies. “Y’all” stands as a clever amalgamation, effortlessly replacing the cumbersome “you all.” 
• New York City dialect: Embodies distinct features that set it apart from other regional accents. One of the most notable characteristics is the unique pronunciation of the “r” sound. In the Big Apple, words like “coffee” undergo a transformation, becoming “cawfee.” The rhythm and intonation patterns associated with this dialect further contribute to its unique charm and identity.
• Appalachian dialect: This particular dialect, prevalent in the Appalachian region, showcases a distinct vocabulary with words like “holler” (referring to a narrow valley) and notable grammatical patterns that set it apart.

In the United Kingdom:

• Cockney dialect: London is famous for its distinctive rhyming slang, a prevalent feature characterized by the substitution of words with rhyming phrases. For instance, locals might say “apples and pears” instead of “stairs.”
• Scottish dialect: Colloquial language in Scotland varies across regions, featuring distinctive pronunciation with rolled “r” sounds and unique vocabulary. For example, the term “bairn” is commonly used to mean “child.”
• Geordie dialect: Common in northeast England, the local dialect exhibits unique vocabulary and pronunciation. For instance, “why aye” is used for “yes,” and “owt” is the pronunciation for “anything.”
• Quebec French dialect: Predominant in the province of Quebec, it mixes French and English vocabulary and pronunciation, along with distinct grammatical structures.
• Newfoundland English dialect: Found in Newfoundland and Labrador, it includes unique vocabulary and pronunciation influenced by Irish and West Country English.

Dialects and standard English exhibit notable distinctions in their linguistic characteristics. While standard English adheres to prescribed grammar rules and vocabulary, dialects reflect regional or social variations in pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. These differences contribute to the rich tapestry of language, reflecting the unique cultural identities and histories of diverse communities. Embracing and understanding dialects can foster inclusivity and appreciation for the linguistic diversity that enriches our global communication.

Inclusion of cultural references

In colloquial language, cultural references add depth and meaning to expressions. This section explores the intriguing realm of “Explanation of Cultural References in Colloquial Language,” shedding light on how specific cultural elements, such as historical events, pop culture, and traditions, shape the usage and understanding of colloquialisms. By unravelling these references, we gain a deeper appreciation of the cultural nuances and context embedded within colloquial language, fostering richer connections and communication.

Colloquial language examples of cultural references within the section “Regional Variations and Dialects” can include:

• “Hotter than a jalapeño” (referring to extreme heat, commonly used in southwestern US dialects)
• “Bob’s your uncle” (a British colloquial expression that signifies the completion or successful resolution of a situation, similar to saying “there you have it” or “everything is sorted.”)
• “Let’s grab a slice” (referring to getting pizza, commonly used in New York dialect)
• “She’s a real Southern belle” (referring to a traditional, charming woman from the American South)
• “He’s got a case of the Bollywood fever” (referring to someone’s fascination with Indian cinema and culture)
• “I’m heading to the beach, gonna catch some waves” (referring to surfing, often used in coastal regions)
• “That idea is as crazy as a circus” (using circus imagery to emphasize the level of craziness)
• “I’m feeling like a fish out of water” (referring to feeling uncomfortable or out of place)
• “We had a blast at the fiesta” (referring to a lively celebration or party, commonly used in Hispanic communities)
• “Let’s hit the road and take a scenic drive down Route 66” (referring to the renowned American highway, evoking a spirit of adventure and nostalgia.)

Understanding cultural references is paramount for effective communication. Cultural references encompass a wide array of symbols, idioms, and shared knowledge that hold significance within specific cultures. By grasping these references, we gain insight into the cultural context, enabling us to navigate conversations with greater sensitivity and clarity. Appreciating cultural references fosters connections avoids misunderstandings, and enhances the overall effectiveness of our communication, fostering mutual understanding and bridging cultural divides.

Flexibility and Creativity

Using colloquial language for creative expression offers distinct advantages. Firstly, it adds an authentic and relatable touch to artistic works, fostering a strong connection with the audience. Colloquialisms infuse writing with vibrant energy and capture the essence of everyday life, making the creative piece more engaging and dynamic. Additionally, colloquial language allows for the exploration of regional nuances, cultural identities, and subcultures, enabling artists to portray diverse perspectives and create a sense of immediacy. Ultimately, embracing colloquial language in creative expression enhances the impact, resonance, and authenticity of the artistic endeavour.

Colloquialism examples of colloquial language in literature and popular culture:

• “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger: Holden Caulfield’s distinctive voice and use of colloquial languages, such as “phony,” “goddam,” and “crumby,” reflect the informal speech patterns of American teenagers.
• “Trainspotting” by Irvine Welsh: This novel is renowned for its gritty portrayal of Scottish dialects, capturing the raw essence of colloquial language through phrases like “pure dead brilliant” and “nae bother.”
• “Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain: Twain skillfully incorporates colloquial speech into the dialogue of characters like Huck and Jim, immersing readers in the Southern vernacular of the time with phrases like “I reckon,” “ain’t,” and “mighty.”
• Rap and Hip-hop music: Artists like Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, and Jay-Z infuse their lyrics with colloquial language, slang, and regional dialects, capturing the pulse of contemporary street vernacular and cultural expressions.
• Sitcoms and TV series: TV series such as “Friends,” “The Office,” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” showcase characters who use colloquial language to craft dialogue that’s relatable and genuine. Through witty banter, sarcasm, and everyday idioms, these shows capture the essence of everyday conversations, making us laugh and connecting with us on a personal level.
• Stand-up comedy: Comedic legends like George Carlin, Eddie Murphy, and Dave Chappelle masterfully utilize colloquial language to connect with audiences. Through slang, regional expressions, and casual speech patterns, they deliver jokes and observations that effortlessly resonate with listeners.

Mastering the creative use of colloquial language poses its own set of challenges. Striking a balance between being authentic and avoiding misunderstandings can be tricky. Adapting colloquial expressions to fit different contexts and audiences without diluting their essence requires finesse. Additionally, navigating the fine line between creativity and overuse of slang or regional expressions can be demanding. Successfully harnessing the power of colloquial language creatively entails overcoming these challenges to convey meaning effectively and engage readers or listeners.

Differences between Colloquialism and Standard English

Grammatical differences between colloquialism and Standard English highlight the informal nature of colloquial language. These differences encompass aspects such as sentence structure, verb conjugation, and word usage. Colloquialism often embraces relaxed grammar rules, allowing for contractions, informal pronouns, and the omission of certain words. This flexibility adds a casual and conversational tone to colloquial speech, distinguishing it from the more rigid grammar conventions of Standard English.

Vocabulary differences between colloquialism and Standard English reflect the informal and relaxed nature of colloquial language. Colloquialism often embraces slang, idiomatic expressions, and regional terms that add colour and flavour to everyday conversations. In contrast, Standard English adheres to more formal and widely accepted vocabulary, focusing on clarity and universal understanding. Understanding these vocabulary distinctions allows us to navigate between casual and formal language environments effectively, enhancing our communication skills in diverse settings.

Pragmatic differences between colloquialism and Standard English stem from their distinct communicative purposes. While Standard English emphasizes formal and professional communication, colloquialism prioritizes casual and familiar interactions. Colloquial language often relies on shared cultural references, informal expressions, and relaxed grammar, fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection. In contrast, Standard English maintains a more objective and precise tone, aiming for clarity and universality of understanding. Understanding these pragmatic distinctions is crucial for effective communication in diverse social contexts.

Colloquialism and Standard English exhibit situational differences that reflect varying levels of formality and context. Colloquialism thrives in casual settings, emphasizing familiarity and connection, while Standard English is preferred in formal or professional environments, prioritizing clarity and precision. Understanding these situational differences enables effective communication, allowing individuals to adapt their language choices accordingly and navigate diverse social contexts with ease.

How to Use Colloquialism in Writing and Speaking

In the realm of language usage, colloquialism adds a touch of familiarity and informality to communication. Recognizing the suitable contexts for utilizing colloquial language can elevate both written and spoken interactions. Embracing colloquial expressions during informal discussions with friends and family fosters a comfortable and relatable atmosphere. Moreover, incorporating colloquial language in creative writing, particularly in character dialogues, adds genuineness and authenticity to the narrative.

• Exercise caution when using colloquial language in formal or professional contexts. Overuse may undermine credibility and impact the communication’s tone. Familiarize yourself with the local dialect or regional colloquialisms to better understand the specific expressions and phrases used in that area.
• Read books, watch movies, and listen to music or podcasts that feature colloquial language to immerse yourself in its natural usage.
• Pay attention to conversations and interactions in everyday life to observe how people use colloquialisms in their speech.
• Start by incorporating colloquialisms sparingly to maintain a balance between informal and formal language.
• Understand the context and audience of your writing or speaking to ensure the appropriateness of using colloquialisms.

In the realm of language, finding a delicate equilibrium between colloquialism, formality, and clarity is paramount. When incorporating colloquialisms into our writing and speaking, it is crucial to strike a balance that maintains a level of professionalism while still capturing the essence of informal conversation. By judiciously employing colloquial expressions, idioms, and vernacular phrases, we can infuse our communication with authenticity and relatability. However, it is equally important to ensure that our message remains clear and easily comprehensible, avoiding excessive slang or regionalisms that may hinder understanding. By mastering the art of balancing colloquialism with formality and clarity, we can effectively engage our audience while maintaining a professional and coherent tone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Colloquialism

In the realm of colloquial language, an important characteristic is the use of slang and idioms to add colour and informality to our conversations. However, it is crucial to strike a balance and avoid the common mistake of overusing these expressions. When we rely excessively on slang and idioms, it can hinder effective communication and lead to confusion or exclusion, especially for non-native speakers or unfamiliar audiences. It’s important to use these expressions judiciously, ensuring they enhance rather than overshadow the intended message, allowing for clear and inclusive communication within the context of colloquial language.

When it comes to using colloquial language in formal situations, caution must be exercised. While colloquialisms are widely accepted and used in casual conversations, their application in formal settings can undermine professionalism and credibility. It is essential to strike a balance and choose appropriate language that aligns with the context and tone of the situation. Steering clear of slang, excessive contractions, and overly informal expressions helps maintain a polished and respectful demeanour in formal communication, leaving a positive impression on the audience or recipients.

One prevalent challenge is the potential misunderstanding of cultural references and regional variations. Colloquial language often incorporates idioms, slang, and references that are deeply rooted in specific cultures or regions. Failing to grasp these nuances can lead to confusion or misinterpretation. It is essential to exercise caution and ensure familiarity with the cultural context and regional variations when using colloquial expressions to effectively communicate and connect with others.

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Key Takeaways

• Colloquialism meaning, characterized by slang and informal expressions, can enhance connection and relatability in writing and speaking.
• Effective use of colloquial language requires understanding what does colloquial language mean and the target audience and context to strike the right balance.
• The benefits of colloquialism include fostering familiarity, engagement, and dynamic communication.
• Drawbacks may include potential misunderstandings, exclusion of non-native speakers, and informality in certain contexts.

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• Answer Option

Frequently Asked Questions

Colloquial language brings familiarity and engagement, yet it can lead to misunderstandings, exclusion, and informality. Mastering effective communication requires avoiding common mistakes.

Avoiding common mistakes with colloquial language means balancing its use, avoiding excessive slang or regional expressions, and prioritizing clarity while considering the cultural and linguistic background of your audience.

Colloquial language is informal and generally unsuitable for formal settings like academia or professional writing. Yet, in certain cases, carefully chosen colloquial expressions can be employed in formal contexts to emphasize points or establish a connection with the audience. What are the social and cultural implications of colloquialism? Colloquial language impacts society and culture. It fosters connection and cultural identity but can also reinforce stereotypes and exclude certain groups if used insensitively.

To improve your understanding of colloquialism definition and examples, try reading colloquial books/articles, watching dialect-rich movies/TV shows, conversing with native speakers, and utilizing Edulye’s worksheets for structured practice and explanations.

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What Is Colloquialism? Definition & 85+ Examples

Have you ever wondered why we say ‘break a leg’ instead of ‘good luck’ before someone takes the stage? Colloquialisms like these are an integral part of our everyday language and communication, giving color and character to our conversations.

So, buckle up and get ready for a linguistic adventure as we explore the captivating realm of colloquialism, unraveling the stories behind these everyday expressions that are deeply woven into the fabric of our lives.

Table of Contents

Definition of Colloquialism

Colloquialism refers to informal language, expressions, or phrases used in everyday conversation. These expressions may vary depending on geographical regions or cultural backgrounds and are generally more relaxed compared to formal language.

While colloquial language can help people connect and communicate more naturally, it’s essential to keep in mind that colloquialisms might be unfamiliar or confusing to some audiences, especially non-native speakers or those from different cultural backgrounds.

Origin of Colloquialism

Colloquialism can be traced back to the early forms of human communication. The origin of these informal expressions is often rooted in regional dialects, social culture, or the need for a more casual way of expressing oneself.

Over time, common expressions and phrases within a community become colloquial, reflecting the unique culture of that particular group.

As languages evolve and societies interact, colloquialisms often shift or change their meaning. Some colloquial expressions may become widely understood and accepted in a mainstream language, while others may fade into obscurity or become outdated.

The use of colloquial language can greatly vary between countries and even within different regions of the same country. This linguistic diversity reflects the unique social and cultural contexts in which colloquialisms emerge.

Common Characteristics of Colloquialism

Colloquialism is a distinctive element in everyday speech, showcasing the informal nature and regional variations within a language. It is characterized by the following features:

• Informality: Colloquialisms are informal expressions, often used in casual conversations among friends and family.
• Regionalism: They vary depending on geographical regions, reflecting the unique dialects, slang, and expressions of specific areas.
• Context-dependent: The meaning of a colloquialism often relies on the context in which it is used, and it may not be understood by speakers of other regional dialects.
• Dynamic nature: Colloquialism evolves constantly, with some expressions falling out of use while new ones emerge.

Here are some unique examples of colloquialisms from various English-speaking regions:

Bear in mind that the use of colloquialisms in formal writing and professional settings should be avoided, as it can create confusion or misunderstandings among readers who are not familiar with these regional expressions.

Colloquialism vs Formal Language

Understanding context.

When we communicate with others, it’s essential to understand the context in which we use colloquial or formal language. The situation, audience, and purpose of the communication are critical factors in determining which type of language is most appropriate.

For example, when participating in a casual conversation with friends, colloquial language is commonly used. This type of language feels more natural and allows for more relaxed interaction.

On the other hand, when writing a formal document or giving a professional presentation, formal language is expected to convey information in a structured and clear manner.

Here are more examples of colloquialism:

Remember, understanding the context and audience is crucial in determining whether to use colloquial or formal language. Be mindful of the situation and adapt your language accordingly for effective communication.

Purpose of Colloquial Language

Colloquial language serves a multitude of purposes in communication, writing, and everyday life. Its main functions include:

Conveying Informality

Colloquialisms often indicate an informal setting or conversation among peers, friends, or family members. They create a relaxed tone and make communication more approachable and engaging. For example:

• Wanna instead of Want to
• Gonna instead of Going to
• Y’all instead of You all

Establishing Character Voice

In literature and other forms of written work, colloquial language helps to define and develop a character’s voice, making them more relatable and authentic. For instance:

• “I ain’t got no time for that.”
• “She dunno where he’s gone.”

These sentences use colloquialisms to create a distinct personality for a character, giving them depth and individuality.

Creating Cultural Resonance

Colloquial language can establish a connection between cultural backgrounds and shared experiences. Regional dialects and slang terms often have unique colloquialisms that resonate with people from specific locations or communities. Some examples include:

By incorporating these distinct expressions, colloquial language forms a cultural bond and provides a sense of belonging among its speakers.

Regional and Cultural Variations

Colloquialisms often vary significantly between different regions and cultures, helping to define and distinguish the unique linguistic identity of each area. These colloquial expressions can provide insight into the customs, history, and values of a particular group of people.

For instance, in the United States, there are colloquialisms specific to certain states or regions, such as “y’all” in the South, “you betcha” in the Midwest, and “wicked” in the New England area. Each of these expressions is unique to its respective region and not commonly used outside those areas.

In the United Kingdom, colloquial language often varies significantly even within the same country. For example, someone in London might refer to a friend as “mate,” while someone from Scotland might use “pal” or “chum.” These differences in colloquialisms give a sense of identity and belonging to the people of each region.

Here are some examples of colloquial expressions from different countries and cultures:

Note that colloquial expressions may be subject to change over time due to various factors like globalization, internet communication, and cultural exchange. This dynamic nature of colloquial language makes it an important and fascinating aspect of linguistic studies.

Usage of Colloquialisms

Colloquialisms are informal expressions or phrases which are often used in everyday communication. They can be found in various contexts, such as conversations, writing, media, and songs.

In Conversation

Colloquialisms are most commonly used in casual conversations, as they help to convey a familiar and friendly tone. These expressions can vary depending on the speaker’s geographical location or cultural background. Some examples include:

Although colloquialisms are used more frequently in speech, they can still be found in writing, particularly in informal contexts such as personal letters, emails, text messages, or social media posts. These expressions can create a more casual and relatable tone. Examples include:

Colloquialisms are often used in media, such as television shows, movies, and advertisements, to make the content more relatable and engaging for the audience. By using familiar phrases, the viewers or listeners can better understand and connect with the characters or situations being portrayed.

Examples of colloquialisms in media might be:

Many songwriters use colloquialisms in their lyrics to create a more informal and relatable tone, often reflecting the themes and emotions they are trying to convey. This can help listeners connect with the message of the song on a deeper level. Examples of colloquial expressions in songs may include:

Examples of Colloquialisms

In this section, we will explore various types of colloquialisms in English language through distinct categories such as common phrases, colloquial metaphors, pop culture references, and advertising and marketing. These examples help demonstrate how colloquial language is employed in everyday speech and writing.

Common Phrases

These are everyday expressions or sayings that are informal and often specific to certain regions or groups of people. Some examples include:

Colloquial Metaphors

Colloquial metaphors are informal and imaginative ways to describe something, often employing exaggeration or humor. Here are a few examples:

Pop Culture References

Pop culture references are colloquial expressions that originate from movies, TV shows, music, and other popular culture sources. Some examples are:

Advertising and Marketing

In advertising and marketing, colloquial language is often used to create catchy slogans or phrases for products and services. For instance:

These examples illustrate how colloquialisms pervade various aspects of our language, making communication more relatable, engaging, and expressive.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Colloquialisms

Colloquialisms can bring a sense of comfort and familiarity to conversations, as they often represent a shared understanding of informal language among speakers. This can help to create a warm, engaging atmosphere in communication.

For example, the colloquialism “break a leg” is a lighthearted, informal way to wish someone good luck in their performance.

Using colloquial language can also provide a more accurate representation of a character’s voice, thoughts, or background in storytelling. This can make dialogue feel more authentic and relatable.

An example of a colloquial expression in storytelling might be, “He was grinning from ear to ear.” This paints a vivid image in the reader’s mind, effectively conveying the character’s happiness.

Disadvantages

Despite the benefits of using colloquial language, there are some drawbacks to consider. In some cases, colloquialisms may be difficult for non-native speakers or those less familiar with the informal language to understand. For instance, the colloquial phrase “raining cats and dogs” might be confusing to someone who has never encountered it before.

Overusing colloquial expressions can be perceived as unprofessional or inappropriate in certain settings, such as formal writing or business communication. For example, saying “I’m gonna hit the hay” instead of “I’m going to sleep” might appear too casual in a professional context.

Colloquial expressions can sometimes vary across regions or cultures, which can lead to misunderstandings if a phrase is not universally recognized. For example, the colloquialism “bless your cotton socks” may be well known in certain parts of the UK but unfamiliar to those from other English-speaking countries.

Significance of Colloquialism

In language.

Colloquialisms add color and personality to a language, making it feel more relatable and familiar to native speakers. These expressions also convey the culture and customs of a particular region or group of people.

In Learning

Understanding colloquial language can be a crucial part of learning any new language. It allows learners to connect with native speakers and gain a deeper understanding of the nuances of the language. It also helps the language feel more natural and less formal, making it more enjoyable to learn and speak.

In Communication

Colloquialisms can play a significant role in effective communication, as they often express ideas and emotions more concisely and vividly than formal language. They can also help establish rapport and trust between the speaker and listener, further enhancing the overall communication experience.

In Everyday Life

Colloquial language is an integral part of everyday life, as it helps people express themselves more easily and naturally. It also makes communication faster, more efficient, and more engaging.

In Literature

Authors often use colloquial language in their works to create authentic dialogue and characters, making the story more engaging and relatable for readers. Colloquialisms can contribute to the development of a character’s voice and provide insight into their background and culture.

Classic examples include the colloquial language used by Mark Twain in “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” and Harper Lee’s use of southern dialect in “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

Difference Between Colloquialism, Slang, and Jargon

Colloquialism, slang, and jargon are all informal language expressions, but they have different characteristics and are used in different contexts. Understanding the distinctions between these three linguistic features can help avoid confusion and improve communication.

Colloquialism refers to informal expressions that are specific to a particular region, social group, or culture. These phrases are generally understood by native speakers but may not be familiar to those who are not part of the respective community.

Slang is characterized by its informality and is often used by specific social groups to distinguish themselves or convey membership. Slang terms can become outdated quickly, and new terms continually emerge.

Jargon is a specialized language used by professionals, experts, or those with specific knowledge within a field. It is often employed to communicate information efficiently and precisely, but it can be challenging for outsiders to comprehend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does generation gap affect colloquialism.

Yes, generation gaps can affect colloquialism. Language and expressions often change over time, and different generations might have unique colloquialisms that the others may not understand. This can create misunderstandings or confusion between generations when they communicate.

Here are some examples of colloquialisms unique to specific generations:

Baby boomers: “Far out” (meaning impressive or amazing) Generation X: “As if” (meaning disbelief or sarcasm) Millennials: “On fleek” (meaning perfectly done or styled) Generation Z: “Lit” (meaning exciting or amazing)

It’s important to recognize that these examples are not absolute, and individuals from one generation might still understand and use phrases from another generation. However, such discrepancies in language can contribute to the perceived generation gap.

Are colloquialisms considered improper language?

Colloquialisms are not inherently improper; they are simply informal expressions that reflect the culture and history of a specific region or group. However, it’s essential to use them judiciously and be mindful of the context in which they are used.

Colloquialisms may not be appropriate in formal writing or professional settings, but they can add color and authenticity to casual conversations.

How do colloquialisms contribute to linguistic diversity?

Colloquialisms contribute to linguistic diversity by reflecting the unique characteristics, history, and culture of different regions and communities. These expressions serve as linguistic markers, highlighting variations in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation within a language.

By enriching language with local flavor and context, colloquialisms celebrate the dynamic nature of human communication and demonstrate the wide range of ways people express themselves across the globe.

Colloquialisms are informal expressions unique to specific regions, communities, or social groups, enriching language with cultural and historical context. While they can add color and familiarity to speech, they may be challenging for non-native speakers to understand.

Recognizing and appreciating colloquialisms helps deepen one’s linguistic knowledge and fosters a sense of belonging within a community. By using them judiciously, we can create engaging and authentic communication that bridges linguistic gaps and celebrates the diversity of human expression.

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Understanding Colloquialism: Definition and Examples

What is colloquialism, why colloquialism matters in language, how to identify colloquialism, examples of colloquialism in literature, examples of colloquialism in everyday conversation, colloquialism vs. slang.

Have you ever wondered why we sound different when we chat with our friends compared to when we're writing an essay or delivering a presentation? That's because we often use a unique linguistic phenomenon known as colloquialism. We'll delve into the definition of colloquialism and understand why it plays such an integral role in our everyday language.

At its core, the definition of colloquialism points to the use of informal words, phrases, or even slang in a conversation. It's the casual lingo we use when we're not too worried about coming across as formal or scholarly.

The Core Definition of Colloquialism

Let's strip it down to basics. The dictionary definition of colloquialism is " a word or phrase that is not formal or literary, typically one used in ordinary or familiar conversation ". This can include regional sayings, personal expressions or even popular culture references. It's all about what feels natural and comfortable in a casual chat.

Origins of Colloquialism

Colloquialism isn't a new concept — it's been around for as long as language has. These casual expressions often arise from the shared experiences and culture of a community. Over time, these shared phrases become part of the everyday language, and before you know it, they're colloquialisms.

Colloquialism in Action

Everyday phrases such as "chill out" or "catch some z's" are perfect examples of colloquialism in action. These are terms that you wouldn't typically find in a textbook or formal document, but they're understood in informal conversation. The beauty of colloquialism is that it evolves with society, keeping our language fresh and dynamic.

So, the next time you tell your friend to "chill out" or decide to "catch some z's", remember that you're participating in the wonderful world of colloquialism — making language more personal and relatable.

Now that we have a clear definition of colloquialism, let's explore why it's a fundamental part of our language. It's more than just casual talk; it's about connection, communication, and cultural preservation.

Building Connection

Imagine trying to connect with a friend using strictly formal language. Sounds a bit stiff, right? Colloquialism adds a dash of warmth and personality to our interactions. By using colloquial language, we can express ourselves more authentically and build stronger connections with those around us.

Facilitating Communication

Colloquialism isn't just about what we say—it's also about how we say it. When we use colloquial language, our conversations become more fluid and natural. This makes it easier for us to express our thoughts and feelings, enabling more effective communication.

Preserving Cultural Identity

Colloquialism also plays a crucial role in preserving and transmitting cultural identity. Think about it: every region, every community, and even every family has its unique set of colloquial expressions. These phrases often carry the essence of a group's shared history and experiences, helping to keep cultural identities alive.

So, while colloquialism might seem like just a fancy term for casual talk, it's actually a vital part of our linguistic identity. It's the secret ingredient that makes our conversations feel like home.

After understanding the definition of colloquialism and its importance in language, you're probably wondering how to spot it in daily conversations or writings. Here are some easy tips to help you identify colloquialism wherever it pops up.

Look for Informal Words and Phrases

Colloquial language is informal by nature. If you come across words or phrases that you wouldn't typically find in a formal document or academic paper, you're likely dealing with colloquialism. It may be as simple as using "gonna" instead of "going to" or "wanna" rather than "want to".

Consider the Context

Context is key when identifying colloquialism. Colloquial expressions are often used in informal settings like a catch up with friends, a chat at the coffee shop, or in personal letters and emails. So, if the setting is casual, chances are high that colloquial language is being used.

Recognize Regional Dialects

Colloquialism often incorporates elements of regional dialects. For example, phrases like "y'all" in the Southern United States, or "cuppa" in the UK, are colloquial expressions unique to their respective regions.

Remember, the goal of colloquial language is to make communication more natural and relatable. So, next time you're engaged in a casual conversation, take a moment to notice the colloquial expressions—it's a great way to appreciate the richness and diversity of our language.

Just as we see colloquialism in everyday conversation, it pops up quite a bit in literature as well. It's used to give characters depth, make dialogue feel real and relatable, and sometimes even to express regional identities. Let's take a look at some examples:

Mark Twain's "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn"

One of the best examples of colloquialism in literature is Mark Twain's "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn". Twain uses colloquial language to give his characters authenticity, bringing them to life with phrases like "it ain't no matter" or "I got to light out".

J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye"

J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye" is another great example where colloquial language defines the main character, Holden Caulfield. Phrases like "it kills me" or "phony" give us real insight into Holden's character and his worldview.

Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird"

Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird" uses colloquial language to depict the regional dialect of the American South. You'll find phrases like "yonder" and "reckon" sprinkled throughout the book, providing a sense of place and authenticity.

These examples show how colloquial language, when used effectively, can make characters and settings more believable. It brings the reader closer to the story, making it more engaging and relatable.

Colloquialisms aren't just found in books—they're all around us in our day-to-day conversations. They give our speech color and personality, making our interactions more casual and friendly. Let's explore some common examples you might hear in everyday conversation.

Common English Colloquialisms

Phrases like "What's up?" or "Hang on a sec" are colloquial expressions. They're casual, informal ways of asking how someone is doing or asking someone to wait.

Regional Colloquialisms

Depending on where you are in the world, you might come across different colloquial expressions. For instance, in the southern United States, you might hear "y'all" whereas in Australia, "no worries" is a common phrase.

Colloquialisms in Slang

Slang is a form of colloquial language. Terms like "cool", "sick", or "lit" are all examples of slang colloquialisms that have different meanings depending on the context they're used in.

These examples of colloquialism in everyday conversation show how this type of language can make our speech more relaxed and approachable. It helps us connect with others and express ourselves in a more personal way.

Now that we've discovered the definition of colloquialism and seen it in action, let's clarify the difference between colloquialism and slang, as they're often mistaken for each other. Both add a dash of flavor to our language, but they're not quite the same.

What's a Colloquialism?

A colloquialism is a word, phrase, or other form used in informal language. It's like the comfy, worn-in jeans of language—perfect for casual chats and friendly conversations. It's familiar, regionally-based, and used across different age groups.

Slang, on the other hand, is more like the trendy, flashy jacket of language. It's highly informal and often used by specific groups, like teenagers or certain professions. Slang terms often have a short lifespan, fading out as trends change.

Key Differences

• Usage: While colloquialisms are used widely across regions and age groups, slang is often limited to specific groups or trends.
• Longevity: Colloquialisms tend to stick around for a while. They're part of the language's fabric. Slang, in contrast, often changes with trends and may not be relevant or understood after a few years.

So when you're trying to understand the difference between a colloquialism and slang, think about who uses it and how long it's been around. It's all part of the rich, ever-changing tapestry of language!

If you enjoyed exploring the topic of colloquialism and want to continue expanding your understanding of language and communication, we recommend checking out Daisie's classes . Our platform offers a variety of workshops and classes led by experts in various fields, ensuring that you'll find something to spark your interest and help you grow as a creative individual.

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What Is Colloquial Style or Language?

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• An Introduction to Punctuation
• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

The term colloquial refers to a style of writing that conveys the effect of informal spoken language as distinct from formal or literary English. As a noun, the term is a  colloquialism .

A colloquial style is commonly used, for example, in  informal  emails and  text messages . You wouldn't use it where you need to sound professional, serious, or knowledgeable, such as in presentations, meetings, business letters and memos, and academic papers. As a literary device, it would be used in fiction and theater, especially in dialogue and internal narration of characters. It's more likely to be in lyrics as well.

Colloquial writing is a conversational style, but it's not writing exactly how you talk, either, Robert Saba said.   "To do that would be bad writing — wordy, repetitive, disorganized. A conversational style is a default style, a  drafting  style, or point of departure that can serve as a consistent foundation for your writing. It is the style of a painter doing sketches for a painting, not the painting itself." Conversational writing as a style, then, is still more refined, composed, and precise than talking because of the ability to self-edit and polish the words.

On using the conversational style in essays, critic Joseph Epstein wrote,

"While there is no firmly set, single style for the  essayist , styles varying with each particular essayist, the best general description of essayistic style was written in 1827 by William Hazlitt in his essay  'Familiar Style.'  'To write a genuine familiar or truly English style,' Hazlitt wrote, 'is to write as any one would speak in common conversation who had a thorough command and  choice of words , or who could discourse with ease, force, and perspicuity, setting aside all pedantic and  oratorical  flourishes.' The style of the essayist is that of an extremely intelligent, highly commonsensical person talking, without stammer and with impressive  coherence , to himself or herself and to anyone else who cares to eavesdrop. This self-reflexivity, this notion of talking to oneself, has always seemed to me to mark the essay off from the lecture. The lecturer is always teaching; so, too, frequently is the critic. If the essayist does so, it is usually only indirectly."

One should not go too informal in writing, either. According to Tracy Kidder and Richard Todd, "Breeziness has become for many the literary mode of first resort, a ready-to-wear means to seeming fresh and authentic. The style is catchy, and catching, like any other fashion. Writers should be cautious with this or any other stylized jauntiness — especially young writers, to whom the  tone  tends to come easily. The colloquial writer seeks intimacy, but the discerning reader, resisting that friendly hand on the shoulder, that winning grin, is apt to back away."

Mark Twain's Style

In fiction, Mark Twain's skill with dialogue and ability to capture and portray dialect in his works are highly lauded and make his style and voice distinct.  Lionel Trilling  described it: "Out of his knowledge of the actual speech of America Mark Twain forged a classic prose ...[Twain] is the master of the style that escapes the fixity of the printed page, that sounds in our ears with the immediacy of the heard voice, the very voice of unpretentious truth."

See this example from "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," 1884:

"We catched fish and talked, and we took a swim now and then to keep off sleepiness. It was kind of solemn, drifting down the big, still river, laying on our backs looking up at the stars, and we didn't ever feel like talking loud, and it warn't often that we laughed — only a little kind of a low chuckle. We had mighty good weather as a general thing, and nothing ever happened to us at all — that night, nor the next, nor the next."

George Orwell's Style

George Orwell's goal in writing was to be clear and direct and to reach as many people as possible, ordinary folks, so his was not a formal or stilted style. Richard H. Rovere explains it this way: "There is not much to do with [George] Orwell's novels except read them. Nor is there much to be said about his style. It was colloquial in diction and sinewy in construction; it aimed at clarity and unobtrusiveness and achieved both."

Orwell's opening line of the novel "1984" starts simply yet jarringly, "It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen." (1949)

• "Composing to Communicate." Cengage, 2017
• "Good Prose: The Art of Nonfiction." Random House, 2013
• "Introduction." "The Best American Essays 1993." Ticknor & Fields, 1993
• "The Liberal Imagination," Lionel Trilling, 1950
• "Introduction to 'The Orwell Reader,'" 1961
• Conversationalization: Definition and Examples
• Using Informal Style in Prose Writing
• Levels of Usage: Definition and Examples
• Definition of Usage Labels and Notes in English Dictionaries
• What Is a Colloquialism?
• Colloquialization (Language)
• Characteristics of a Formal Prose Style
• Diction - Word Choice and Enunciation
• Mark Twain's Colloquial Prose Style
• Definition and Examples of the Middle Style in Rhetoric
• Diglossia in Sociolinguistics
• Word Choice in English Composition and Literature
• polysyndeton (style and rhetoric)
• Style-shifting (language)
• What Is Headlinese?
• Bathos: Definition and Examples

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English Colloquialism Examples

• DESCRIPTION Students talking at Picadilly Circus
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Strike an informal tone in your speech or writing by studying English colloquialism examples. You'll see how these words and phrases add personality and a casual feeling to any kind of communication, as well as how they vary from region to region. Like idioms , these words and colloquial phrases can be difficult for a non-native speaker to understand.

Examples of British English Colloquialisms

Great Britain has some unique colloquialisms and regional expressions that can lend a region-specific and less formal touch to any piece of writing. These are a few notable ones, including many British slang words :

• Ace - word to describe something excellent
• Anorak - someone who is a little bit of a geek with expertise usually in an obscure niche
• Blimey - exclamation of surprise
• Bloke - a regular man or "guy"
• Boot - the trunk of a car
• Brilliant - something that's really great
• Brolly - an umbrella
• Cheeky - to be overly familiar or bold, sometimes in an endearing way
• Cheers - thank you
• Chinwag - a chat
• Chockablock - something that is completely filled
• Chuffed - proud or excited
• Codswallop - something made-up or not true
• Dodgy - something less than safe or secure
• Dog's dinner - a big mess, often used to describe a situation
• Gobsmacked - completely surprised
• Gutted - horribly disappointed
• Knackered - totally exhausted
• Lurgy - an illness with symptoms like a cold or flu
• Pea souper - a very foggy day
• Poppycock - something ridiculous and possibly untrue
• Posh - something or someone that is very fancy
• Rubbish - an exclamation meaning something is untrue or of poor quality
• Skive - to skip work or school
• Smarmy - smug or snobby with a false earnestness
• Strop - a bad mood or sulk
• Swot - a very serious, possibly geeky, student
• Tosh - something that's untrue
• Whinge - to whine and complain

American English Colloquial Expressions

Americans have a few unique words and phrases of their own, especially when it comes to casual conversation. Add these colloquialisms and American slang expressions to your writing or speech if you want to sound less formal:

• Ballpark - used to describe something that is close to accurate
• Bomb - to do terribly on a test
• Cattywampus - a crooked thing
• Flake - a person who cancels plans regularly or the act of regularly canceling plans
• Lemon - a purchase that is unreliable and has many problems
• Podunk - used to describe a small town
• Raincheck - a promise to reschedule plans that had to be canceled
• Ride shotgun - to sit in the front passenger seat of a car
• Score - to get what you want
• Trash - to destroy something

Canadian English Colloquialisms

Canadians also have expressions that are unique, and there's quite a bit of variation in Canadian slang by region . If you want to sound casual, try these words and phrases:

• Chirping - making fun of or taunting someone
• Click - a kilometer
• Eh or Hey - used at the end of a sentence to signal a check for agreement
• Gong show - an event that gets out of control
• Keener - someone who tries too hard to win favor
• Kerfuffle - a difference of opinion that causes a fuss
• Pencil crayons - colored pencils
• Serviette - a napkin
• Skid - a kid from a poor family
• Toque - a warm cap or beanie, rhymes with "duke"

Australian Colloquial Expressions

You'll also find many English colloquialisms in Australia . While some are shared with other English-speaking countries, some are unique to this area:

• Arvo - afternoon
• Bottle-o - a liquor store
• Bludger - a lazy person
• Cobber - a good friend
• Deadset - something that is true
• Flat out - extremely busy
• Furphy - unlikely stories or rumors
• Mongrel - a person who is unkind or troublesome
• Rapt - really pleased
• Swag - a sleeping bag
• Woop woop - a town in the middle of nowhere

How Colloquialisms Relate to Other Terms

Colloquialisms are region-specific words and phrases that add color and a casual tone to your writing or speech, but they aren't the only way to accomplish this goal. You can also learn about other similar terms that can make your writing more interesting . Several of these overlap with colloquialisms.

• Slang - Slang is informal speech, but it isn't necessarily used by everyone in an area. For instance, young people may use slang that their grandparents don't understand.
• Idiom - An idiom is a phrase that has meaning only understood by people who know the language and culture well. It can be a colloquialism, but it's often more involved. English idiom examples include "hold your horses" or "let the cat out of the bag."
• Jargon - Jargon words tend to be more formal and not used by common people. They are often associated with specific industries or areas of expertise. For example, there are many types of political jargon or corporate buzzwords that are only understood by people in those fields.
• Aphorism - Like colloquialisms, aphorisms are used by common people. However, they tend to be a truism or piece of wisdom, rather than a region-specific method of expression. "Actions speak louder than words" is a common example.

Have the Right Words

Colloquial sentence examples can help you learn the difference between American and British English. Understanding colloquialisms can also give you more tools to choose the right words for any type of writing, from formal papers to casual letters to friends.

See similar articles

30 Colloquial Examples to Spice Up Your Dialogues

Have you ever wondered how the rollicking adventures of Huckleberry Finn or the visceral streets depicted by Irvine Welsh could so vividly capture the essence of their settings and characters?

The secret lies in the masterful use of colloquial language—a rich world woven from everyday language, slang words, and regional dialects that breathe life into dialogue and narrative. Colloquial expressions, those gems mined from the depths of daily conversations, offer a kaleidoscope of local color and authenticity that formal language often fails to convey.

From the knee-jerk reactions of a character to the nuanced slang that delineates a particular profession or geographic region, colloquial speech (or as some might pronounce it, "kwee uh liz um") transforms the written word into a mirror of our daily lives.

This blog dives into the world of colloquial examples, exploring how informal words and phrases, far removed from the rigid confines of formal writing, can spice up your own writing.

Whether capturing the rough living of the American South, the wicked good idioms of Australian English, or the unique aspects of British slang, understanding and utilizing colloquial terms is essential for crafting believable dialogue and bringing the textured layers of casual conversation to the page.

A Long List of Colloquial Examples

1. "that's as useful as a chocolate teapot.".

This phrase humorously points out something completely impractical or useless, much like my attempts at fixing the plumbing in our old studio in Lisbon, which ended with a flooded bathroom and a lesson in humility.

2. "He's all hat and no cattle."

Coming from a shoot in Texas, where big promises and bravado are common, this saying perfectly encapsulates the idea of someone who talks a big game but has little to show for it, like a director, I once worked with who promised the moon but barely delivered a lightbulb's worth of illumination.

3. "She really knows how to paint the town red."

Reflecting on nights out in Paris after successful film premieres, this expression celebrates someone who enjoys lively and exuberant social activities and makes the most of every moment.

4. "That idea went over like a lead balloon."

I've seen some ideas sink faster in pitches across various continents than others. This phrase captures the essence of an idea that fails to gain the desired traction or enthusiasm, reminiscent of a concept we once pitched in Berlin that was met with silence so dense you could hear a pin drop.

5. "It's raining cats and dogs out there!"

An expression as old as time, yet it vividly reminds me of a torrential downpour that interrupted a crucial outdoor shoot in Mumbai, testing our resilience and adaptability in the face of nature's unpredictability.

6. "He's got a chip on his shoulder."

During my travels, I've encountered individuals who carry a grudge or grievance that affects their interactions. This saying perfectly sums up that lingering resentment, like a seasoned actor who couldn't let go of past directorial slights.

7. "Let's wrap this up with a bow."

In filmmaking, concluding a project or segment neatly and satisfactorily is crucial. This phrase evokes the final touches put on a documentary in Tokyo, where every detail was polished to perfection.

8. "That's a tough nut to crack."

Reflecting on a particularly challenging interview subject in Rio, this expression speaks to a difficult problem or situation that requires considerable effort to solve or understand.

9. "Don't count your chickens before they hatch."

This is vital advice in the unpredictable world of filmmaking. It reminds us of the time a seemingly confirmed sponsor backed out at the last minute, upending our budget plans for a project in Cairo.

10. "They're like two peas in a pod."

On a set in New York, I worked with a pair of cinematographers whose seamless collaboration and mirrored thought processes embodied this phrase's spirit of similarity and closeness.

11. "That's the pot calling the kettle black."

Witnessing industry debates in London, this idiom humorously highlights the hypocrisy of a criticism, where the critic is guilty of the same fault they are pointing out.

12. "We'll cross that bridge when we come to it."

A producer's calming words during a location scout in the Scottish Highlands, emphasizing the importance of dealing with problems only if and when they actually arise.

13. "That's a piece of cake."

After mastering the art of quick, effective pitches, this phrase became a favorite, signifying something very easy to accomplish, similar to convincing a skeptical artist in Amsterdam of our visionary project.

14. "He's a wolf in sheep's clothing."

In the competitive arena of film festivals, this expression was apt for describing an individual who appears harmless and friendly but is actually dangerous and deceitful, like a distributor we once naively trusted.

15. "They threw everything but the kitchen sink at it."

Reflecting on a project in Los Angeles where resources were plentiful, this saying captures the essence of using all available means to achieve an objective, often resulting in a chaotic yet creative outcome.

16. "We're not in Kansas anymore."

This phrase often came to mind when landing in unfamiliar territories, highlighting a drastic change in circumstances or environment, like stepping into the bustling streets of Tokyo from the quiet midwestern US.

17. "It's time to face the music."

Facing criticism or consequences is never easy, reminiscent of a screening in Milan where the feedback was less than favorable, forcing us to confront our shortcomings head-on.

18. "You can't have your cake and eat it too."

A lesson in compromise, this idiom was a constant reminder during negotiations with sponsors, emphasizing the impossibility of having it all without giving something in return.

19. "They're living in a fool's paradise."

Witnessing the unrealistic expectations of a first-time filmmaker in Sydney, this phrase aptly described the blissful ignorance of believing in an overly optimistic scenario.

20. "That's a red herring."

During a mystery-themed documentary investigation in London, this term frequently surfaced to describe misleading clues that diverted our attention from the real issues at hand.

21. "He's bitten off more than he can chew."

Reflecting on a project in São Paulo that spiraled in scope and complexity, this saying captured the predicament of taking on tasks that are too difficult to manage.

22. "Let's not beat around the bush."

A direct approach was often necessary, especially when discussing sensitive subjects with subjects and collaborators, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues head-on.

23. "She's hit the nail on the head."

In critique sessions, this phrase celebrated the moments when someone perfectly identified the core issue or solution, like a script editor in Berlin whose insight saved a floundering storyline.

24. "That's the straw that broke the camel's back."

A reminder of the cumulative effect of stressors, akin to a challenging shoot in the Sahara, where the extreme conditions tested our limits and patience to the brink.

25. "We're just skating on thin ice."

The precarious nature of filming in politically unstable regions often felt like navigating a risky path, where every decision could have significant repercussions.

26. "He's letting the cat out of the bag."

The revelation of a closely guarded secret, much like the unexpected announcement of a major partnership that took the film community by surprise during a festival in Venice.

27. "It's a wild goose chase."

Chasing elusive stories across continents sometimes felt like an exercise in futility, especially when leads went cold and efforts seemed increasingly fruitless.

28. "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink."

This idiom was a lesson in persuasion, highlighting the challenge of encouraging a team or audience to embrace a vision or concept, despite presenting it as attractively as possible.

29. "They're cutting corners."

In post-production, this phrase was a caution against compromising quality for speed or cost, a temptation we faced but resisted during the editing of a critical piece in Cape Town.

30. "It's time to go back to the drawing board."

After receiving constructive feedback, this expression motivated us to revisit and revise our approach, ensuring our next pitch or project would be stronger, learned from our experiences across the globe.

In wrapping up our exploration of 30 colloquial examples that can add a dash of authenticity and vibrancy to your dialogues, we've seen how the everyday language and slang words rooted in the colloquium of daily lives have the power to transform formal writing into engaging narratives.

These informal words and colloquial expressions, harvested from the rich soils of everyday speech and casual conversation, bridge the gap between the reader and the characters, making the adventures of Huckleberry Finn, the rough living of the American South, or the unique slang of British and Australian English come alive with a sense of immediacy and realism.

Whether you're penning the next great American novel or scripting a dialogue-heavy indie film , remember that the right colloquialism can breathe life into your characters and settings, making them resonate with native speakers and readers alike.

So, embrace the colloquial terms, the regional dialects, and the rich tapestry of slang and jargon.

Let these examples inspire you to weave your own writing with the threads of colloquialism, enriching your narratives with the authentic, vivid hues of everyday conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colloquial Examples (FAQs)

What are colloquial examples.

Colloquial examples refer to words, phrases, or expressions used in everyday language. They are the casual or informal words we sprinkle throughout our everyday speech that flavour our casual conversations. Examples include “gonna” for “going to” or “y’all” in the American South.

How do I pronounce colloquial?

Pronounce colloquial as kuh-loh-kwee-uhl . The term stems from the Latin word colloquium, meaning a conversation.

Can you give me a colloquial expression for surprise?

A common colloquial expression for surprise is "jaw-dropping." It vividly depicts the physical reaction to shock or amazement, often found in daily conversations.

Why is colloquial language important in writing and filmmaking?

Colloquial language injects authenticity and relatability into your work. For instance, Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn employs colloquial speech to bring characters to life and reflect the regional dialects of the time. This approach helps create believable dialogue that resonates with audiences.

What's the difference between slang and colloquialisms?

While both are informal, slang words often relate to a specific group or era and may fall out of use quickly.

However, colloquialisms are more widely accepted within a language and understood e, making them more enduring elements of everyday conversation.

Can colloquialisms be found in literature?

Absolutely! Literature colloquialism is a tool to mirror real informal conversation, making characters and settings more relatable.

Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger and works by Irvine Welsh are prime examples where colloquial style helps define the main character and setting .

How do colloquialisms vary across English dialects?

Colloquialisms can differ greatly across English dialects, such as British, American, and Australian English. For instance, “wicked good” might be common in New England, USA, whereas “rough living” might resonate more with British English speakers. These variations add unique aspects to characters based on their geographic region.

How can I effectively use colloquial language in my own writing?

Understand Your Characters: Match the colloquial style to their background, age, and regional dialects.

Balance with Context: Use colloquialisms to enrich dialogue but ensure they don’t obscure meaning for the reader.

Read Aloud: Hearing the colloquial words and phrases can help you gauge if they sound natural within daily life scenes.

What is a common mistake when using colloquialisms in storytelling?

Overusing or misusing slang and jargon can alienate readers or viewers unfamiliar with the specific group or profession the slang terms relate to. Strive for a balance that enhances realism without sacrificing clarity.

Can formal language and colloquial expressions coexist in a piece of writing?

Yes, they can coexist and often do. The key is knowing when to use informal words for impact and when to rely on formal writing for clarity or dramatic effect. This juxtaposition can highlight the unique aspects of different characters or settings.

Are there any resources to learn more colloquial expressions and their uses?

Immersing yourself in the culture and language of your characters is invaluable. Engaging with native speakers, consuming media from the region, and reading literature that uses colloquialism in literature effectively are excellent ways to gather authentic examples.

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45+ Colloquialism Examples You’re Gonna Go Nuts Over

by Sarah Lentz

on Jun 11, 2024

If you’re looking for colloquialism examples, then you’re in the right place.

Maybe you’re just now learning about colloquialisms, or maybe you’re a seasoned writer looking for ways to add flavor to your prose.

Either way, this post will define colloquialisms and provide plenty of examples to make it clear as day.

Quick question…

When was the last time you enjoyed a story where all the characters spoke perfect, formal American English, regardless of their background?

A colloquial term makes characters and stories more interesting and, if their background is similar to yours, more relatable.

Formal writing has its place. But you’re about to learn why sometimes colloquial expressions fit better.

Ready to learn how to have more fun with your writing — and to make it more fun for your readers, too?

Let’s dive in!

What are Colloquialisms?

Most dictionaries define colloquialisms as words or phrases that are neither formal language nor literary — meaning they are informal, unfancy, everyday language.

Typically, when discussing colloquialism (kuh-LOH-kwee-uh-liz-um), we’re talking about informal language specific to a designated country or region. For example, cockney rhyming slang.

It’s the informal language most often used in situations between ordinary people. In other words, it’s how people talk in a casual conversation.

So, as a literary device , it helps make your dialogue sound more realistic.

Now that we know what we’re talking about, let’s deal with two things that often get mixed up with colloquialisms: slang and jargon.

Related Terms

Slang includes a unique informal word, expression (and even cliche) spoken in specific social groups (like teenagers), while colloquialisms are usually spoken by native speakers.

For example:

A teenager might use an American slang word (or slang term) like “swag” or “sick” to describe something that meets their approval, while older age groups in the same region typically won’t.

But a teenager is just as likely to use the slang phrase “pop” instead of cola, or “biscuit” instead of cookie if the people in their region do the same.

Jargon is mostly technical terms used by people in a particular profession; people outside those professions typically don’t use those words in everyday speech.

A medical professional might use words like “idiopathic” and “iatrogenic” in a sentence with peers or even with patients, but most non-medical people will only use them when quoting a medical professional.

Yet, a doctor is just as likely to refer to diapers as “nappies” if that’s the colloquial term for it where she lives.

Even those who agree that slang words and jargon are generally distinct from colloquialisms, it is possible for a word and phrase to start as slang or jargon to become part of a region’s colloquial vocabulary.

47 Colloquialism Examples

We’ve collected no less than 47 colloquial examples to illustrate its uses and to show how colloquial expression is part of both our everyday language and our most beloved literature.

Examples of Colloquialisms in Everyday Speech

Colloquialisms in everyday speech come in three different types: words, phrases (often idiomatic ones), and aphorisms .

A statement qualifies as an aphorism if it expresses a truth in a pithy manner (think of Polonius in Shakespeare’s Hamlet). 

Idioms — or idiomatic phrases — are colloquial by nature; their literal meaning cannot be deduced from the words that make them up (unlike aphorisms ). And they’re unique to speakers of a particular language or dialect.

If completing a task is “a piece of cake,” we may surmise from this idiom that it wasn’t completely unenjoyable, but its meaning is also not self-evident.

Colloquial Words:

• “Wicked” (Northeast U.S.) = “very” or “really” (intensifier) Ex: “This soup is wicked good!”
• Contractions like “ain’t,” “gonna,” and “y’all”
• Profanity that’s specific to a country or region: “bloody” is profanity in the UK – but just an adjective in the U.S.

Colloquial Phrases / Idioms:

• “Hard to swallow” = difficult to believe
• “Kick the bucket” = to die
• “Stir up a hornet’s nest” = provoke a strong negative reaction
• “Up for grabs” = available to anyone
• “Knee jerk reaction” = a quick or automatic response
• “Head over heels” = in love
• “Elbow grease” = hard work
• “When it rains, it pours.”
• “Brevity is the soul of wit.” (Polonius)
• “All that glitters isn’t gold.”
• “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
• “From the sublime to the ridiculous is but a step.”

The easier it gets for disparate communities to connect — over the phone or via the internet — the more likely it is that colloquial speech will spread to other regions and even worldwide.

Examples of Colloquialism in Literature

Some of the most enduring works of fiction use colloquial language to make their characters more believable and their stories more authentic.

Enjoy the following examples, and see if a few others come to mind.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee (Southern U.S. vernacular):

“It’s not necessary to tell all you know. It’s not ladylike-in the second place, folks don’t like to have somebody around knowin’ more than they do. It aggravates ‘em. You’re not gonna change any of them by talkin’ right, they’ve got to want to learn themselves, and when they don’t want to learn there’s nothing you can do but keep your mouth shut or talk their language.”

Trainspotting by Irvine Welsh (mimicking the lilt of the Scottish accent):

“Thing is, as ye git aulder, this character-deficiency gig becomes mair sapping. Thir wis a time ah used tae say tae aw the teachers, bosses, dole punters, poll-tax guys, magistrates, when they telt me ah was deficient:’Hi, cool it, gadge, ah’m jist me, jist intae a different sort ay gig fae youse but, ken?’ Now though, ah’ve goat tae concede thit mibee they cats had it sussed. Ye take a healthier slapping the aulder ye git. The blows hit hame mair. It’s like yon Mike Tyson boy at the boxing, ken?”

“The Class Game” by Mary Casey (UK):

“How can you tell what class I’m from? I can talk posh like some With an ‘Olly in me mouth Down me nose, wear an ‘at not a scarf With me second-hand clothes.”

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain (Southwest Missouri):

“What’s the use you learning to do right, when it’s troublesome to do right and it ain’t no trouble to do wrong, and the wages is just the same?”

Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte (Yorkshire vernacular):

Vinegar-faced Joseph projected his head from a round window of the barn. ‘What are ye for?’ he shouted. ‘T’ maister’s down i’ t’ fowld. Go round by th’ end o’ t’ laith, if ye went to spake to him.’ ‘Is there nobody inside to open the door?’ I hallooed, responsively. ‘There’s nobbut t’ missis; and shoo’ll not oppen ‘t an ye mak’ yer flaysome dins till neeght.’ ‘Why? Cannot you tell her whom I am, eh, Joseph?’ ‘Nor-ne me! I’ll hae no hend wi’t,’ muttered the head, vanishing.

The Color Purple by Alice Walker (American Deep South):

“Man corrupt everything, say Shug. He on your box of grits, in your head, and all over the radio. He try to make you think he everywhere. Soon as you think he everywhere, you think he God. But he ain’t. Whenever you trying to pray, and man plop himself on the other end of it, tell him to git lost, say Shug. Conjure up the flowers, wind, water, a big rock.”

Pat of Silver Bush by Lucy Maud Montgomery (Irish vernacular):

“Oh, oh, is it Aunt Edith?” sniffed Judy. “And it was me fine Edith that dragged her in and blew it all afore Brian and his fine lady wife, ye’re telling me? Sure it was like her. It’s a pity a liddle thing like that cudn’t av been hushed up in the fam’ly. And to punish the tinder-hearted cratur so cruel! Ye ralely ain’t wise, Long Alec. A bit av a tongue-lashing might av been all right but to kape on torturing the poor jewel for a wake and her that fond av ye all! It’s telling ye to yer face, I am Long Alec, ye don’t deserve such a daughter.”

Examples of Colloquialisms for Everyday Items

Ever had a moment when you referred to an everyday object by the name you’ve always used for it, only to have someone from another state or country give you a funny look before calling the item a completely different name?

Here are some of the most well-known examples:

• Pop vs. cola or soft drink
• Nappies vs. diapers
• Hot-dish (Minnesota) vs. casserole
• Klick vs. kilometer
• Lift vs. elevator
• Flat vs. apartment
• Binky vs. pacifier
• Subs vs. hoagies vs. submarine sandwiches vs. heroes
• Parakeet vs. budgie
• Truck vs. lorry
• Soccer vs. football
• Pill bugs vs. Potato bugs vs. woodlice vs. roly-polies, etc.

Examples of Colloquialisms for People

We have colloquial names for the people in our lives, too, along with colloquial ways of addressing them.

Check out the following examples and notice which ones stand out for you — either because you use them or because you’ve read them in a book.

• Memaw vs. nana, gram, grammy, gramma, etc.
• Papaw vs papa or granddad (grandfather)
• Kinfolk (blood relatives)
• Bestie or BFF for best friend
• Y’all (you all)
• Boo or bae (significant other)
• Newbie or “noob” vs. newcomer or amateur
• Bloke (nickname for a male in the UK)
• Chap = gentleman (UK)
• Prat = a dim-witted or badly-behaved person (UK)
• Slug = hitchhiking commuter (D.C.)
• Table tapper = amateur preacher (North Carolina)
• Soak = serious drinker (South Dakota)

Why Use Colloquialisms in Writing?

As writers , we’re always looking for ways to hone our writing skills , whether through books , online courses , or blog posts.

Inspiration is everywhere if you’re open to receiving it.

Listen in on other people’s (public) conversations to pick up on colloquialisms you can weave into your dialogue and character development .

Colloquial language will make your story sound more authentic, giving it a more local flavor.

That’s because real people use colloquialisms in everyday conversation, and believable dialogue reflects that reality to build a sense of familiarity in the reader. That familiarity makes it easier for connections to form.

And a connected reader stays with the story to its end.

That said, it’s worth pointing out that your grammar checker will often flag colloquialisms. Words like “ain’t” and “innit” might fit your story’s dialogue just fine, but Grammarly will still call it out.

How Will You Use Colloquialism Examples in Your Own Writing?

Now that you’ve looked through all the examples in the list above, can you think of colloquialisms you’ve used in your work?

Think about why you used them, as well as what goes through your mind when you find colloquial language in a piece you’re reading.

As mentioned earlier, a writer will use a colloquial phrase in their writing because real people use it in everyday speech.

And real readers like to find something familiar and authentic in what they’re reading.

So, how will you use colloquialisms in your next story?

Sarah Lentz

Sarah Lentz is a certified freelance writer and published author who blogs about health and beauty for women in their 40s and up.

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What Is a Colloquialism?

Definition of "colloquialism".

• It's five clicks to the border.
• That was sick !

Formal Definition

Table of Contents

Easy Examples of Colloquialisms

The difference between colloquialisms and slang and jargon, colloquialisms can be idioms, what is colloquial language, why colloquialisms are important.

• You're a fruitcake.
• The old geezer had a shooter pointing at me.
• I wasn't born yesterday.
• He earns a packet.
• Knock yourself out.
• Are you pulling my leg?
• I can't wrap my head around the concept.
• Jacque's proposal does not ring a bell.
• Use colloquialisms to portray a relaxed image.
• Colloquialisms can be viewed as unprofessional or inappropriate if used in formal situations.
• Colloquialisms will be a piece of cake for your fellow countrymen but potential gobbledygook for an international audience.

This page was written by Craig Shrives .

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70 Colloquialism Examples + 5 Best Tips to Use Colloquialisms

• Updated: 03/04/24
• Comments: 0

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Are you looking to add some flavor and personality to your writing? Using these colloquialism examples is the perfect way to get started.

Colloquialisms are words, phrases, or expressions that are used in everyday language and casual conversation but not always considered part of formal writing.

Using colloquial words in informal or formal language can help make your writing more interesting and relatable for readers.

Whether it’s a blog post, essay, story, or any other type of written work, adding colloquialisms can help bring it alive with color and life.

In this article, we will discuss many examples of colloquialisms as well as 5 tips on how to effectively use them in your own writing.

We will also explain what makes up a colloquial phrase so that you know exactly when and where these expressions should be used.

What Are Colloquialisms?

A colloquialism is a literary device that uses everyday words, phrases, and expressions that are usually not found in formal writing but are used in informal conversations to create a more natural-sounding and casual dialogue.

Colloquialism phrases are found all over the world across many different languages and often originate from regional dialects.

Examples of some common American colloquialisms include “ain’t,” “gonna,” “gimme,” and “y’all.”

They’re often used in writing or conversation to convey an air of authenticity when you’re trying to capture how people actually talk in real life.

It can also add a sense of humor and familiarity to your writing, making it more enjoyable for your readers.

Colloquialisms are often used when you’re trying to write fictional characters or tell a story from an informal point of view.

When using colloquial language in your writing, make sure you understand its context and use it appropriately so that it doesn’t become distracting or detract from the point you’re trying to make.

Differences Between Colloquialisms, Jargon, and Slang

Jargon, slang, and colloquialisms are all forms of informal speech. However, each type has different characteristics that set them apart from one another.

Colloquial speech is the most common and generally accepted form of informal language, while slang and jargon tend to be more specialized depending on a person’s profession or social circle.

All three types should be used with caution since they could come off as unprofessional or offensive when used incorrectly.

Slang, in comparison, is a more unique type of informal speech that often has a negative connotation attached to it.

Slang words are typically created by younger generations or subcultures and tend to be specific to certain areas or social groups.

Examples of slang terms include terms like “dope,” “bae,” and “lit.”

Slang is often used to surprise, impress, or connect with peers, but can also be offensive if used inappropriately.

Jargon is the most specialized type of informal language of these three. Jargon consists of words or phrases related to a particular profession or hobby that may not be familiar to outsiders of that field.

For example, medical jargon includes complicated terms such as “tachycardia” and “lumbar puncture,” while computer jargon includes words like “DevOps” and “kerning.”

Jargon, also called technical language, is extremely useful for professionals but can easily confuse non-experts who do not understand it.

Examples of Colloquialisms

Now that we’ve covered the basic understanding of colloquialisms and why they are used, let’s dive into some specific colloquialism expressions to provide some further examples.

We will cover examples of colloquialisms in various areas of life, including in everyday speech, different dialects of English, literature, and as it relates to people and names.

Colloquialisms in Everyday Speech

Here are a few examples of how colloquial language is used in everyday speech.

Many of these are also great examples of idioms , a type of literary device that often uses imagery to convey a figurative meaning that is different from the literal meaning.

• “That’s a load of crap!”
• “You’re pulling my leg.”
• “Let’s get the ball rolling.”
• “It’s raining cats and dogs out there!”
• “My head is spinning with all this information.”
• “This place looks like a dump.”
• “You’re in hot water now!”
• “Gimme a break!”
• “Don’t make me laugh!”
• “Watch your mouth!”
• “Stop beating around the bush!”
• “Don’t sugarcoat it.”
• “Catch you later.”
• “This guy is an absolute joke!”
• “Letting the cat out of the bag”
• “I’m feeling under the weather today.”
• “It cost an arm and a leg.”
• “Piece of cake”
• “The boss gave him the cold shoulder.”
• “That blew my mind!”

Colloquialism Examples for People

You might not realize it, but we actually use a lot of colloquial language when we refer to friends, family, and other people. Here are a few examples:

• MawMaw or PawPaw – grandparents
• Bestie – best friend
• Nosy Nelly – a nosy person
• Party pooper – someone who ruins a party
• Noob – a newbie or amateur
• Joe Schmoe – random person
• Boo/Bae – your partner or lover
• Prat – a pompous or self-entitled person (UK)
• Broski – brother
• Numb-nuts – a careless or less intelligent person
• Tattle tale – someone who tells on someone else
• Bromance – a non-romantic relationship between two men
• Happy camper – someone who is happy
• Chatterbox – someone who talks a lot
• Goody-Two-Shoes – someone who tries to behave well in order to impress others

Colloquialisms in Different Languages

The following colloquial examples are from various English-speaking countries.

Colloquialisms in British English

• “Chin Wag” – meaning to have a conversation
• “Chuffed” – feeling very pleased or satisfied with oneself
• “Knackered” – exhausted, tired
• “Cuppa” – term used for a cup of tea
• “Cheeky Nandos” – slang expression for going out for dinner with friends

Colloquialisms in Australian English

• “Barbie” – barbecue
• “Ripper” – something that is great or fantastic
• “Chockers” – very full or overstuffed
• “Togs” – swimsuit
• “Banger” – something of high quality or excellence

Colloquialisms in American English

• “Hangry” – feeling angry due to hunger
• “Lit” – exciting, wild, or fun
• “Catch a Vibe” – to be in the same mood as someone else
• ”Woke” – aware of current social issues and events
• “Chillaxin’ – relaxing

Colloquialisms in Items and Other Things

We use a lot of words to describe things in our language that aren’t actually in the dictionary. There’s probably a colloquial word for just about any everyday item or thing you can think of!

Here are a few examples:

• Binky = Pacifier
• Kicks = Shoes
• Noggin = Head
• Bucks = Money
• Flick = Movie
• Nappies = Diapers
• Grub = Food
• Buggy = Stroller
• Bling = Diamonds or jewelry
• Tee = T-Shirt
• Clicker = TV Remote
• Rollie Pollies = Armadillidiidae bugs
• Pop = Soft drink or cola
• Crib = House

Colloquialism Examples in Literature

Examples of colloquialism in literature can be found throughout the world’s classic stories and writings.

Colloquialism examples in literature offer readers an authentic experience with characters from all parts of the world while also providing insight into traditional values and beliefs within different cultures.

The use of these words and expressions allows writers to bring their stories to life with vivid descriptions, imagery , and immersive dialogue that immerses readers into the narrative.

1. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

In the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel To Kill a Mockingbird, colloquial expressions like “as stubborn as a mule” and “you can kiss my foot” bring the characters to life and reflect the rural setting of Maycomb County, Alabama where the story takes place.

Other examples from this classic story include “cat got your tongue?” and “heaven knows what”.

2. Cathedral by Raymond Carver

In Raymond Carver’s short story “Cathedral,” there are several uses of colloquial language that give an insight into the narrator’s everyday speech patterns. For example, he talks about his wife being “tickled pink” when they plan their trip to New York City—an expression that speaks to her excitement and enthusiasm for the adventure ahead.

Another example is when he says his friend has “more money than brains,” giving us a glimpse into how he perceives his wealthy acquaintances.

3. Crime & Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky

In Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Crime & Punishment, he includes characters who speak in Russian slang; expressions such as “bespredel’nyi” (meaning limitless) or “glupost'” (meaning stupidity).

Such terms give readers an understanding of the specific language during this time period in Russia rather than relying on more universal language that might not accurately capture this historical era or culture.

4. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

In J.D. Salinger’s classic novel The Catcher in the Rye, protagonist Holden Caulfield speaks in a unique colloquial language, peppered with slang and idiomatic expressions like “phonier than a three dollar bill” and “lousy with money.”

This use of language reflects Holden’s youth and gives readers an insight into his worldview. Other examples include “flat out cornball” and “flitwits,” highlighting the common language of teenagers during this era.

5. Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen

In Jane Austen’s beloved novel Pride & Prejudice, one example of a colloquial expression is “I was never so bewitched by anyone.”

These phrases capture the spirit of Regency England, where polite society was just as important as wit and charm – particularly among young ladies who were looking for love and marriage prospects.

Other examples from this timeless book include “it is a truth universally acknowledged” and “what an upstart creature she is!” – both phrases that accurately mirror the attitudes of people during this time period.

Tips to Use Colloquialisms in Your Writing

Now that we’ve covered the basics of colloquial language and shared some common examples of colloquialism, let’s go over a few tips to help you use these in your everyday language.

1. Utilize Regional Language

Depending on the region, different colloquialisms are used. Do research to see what language is spoken in the particular area you are writing about and use that to make your writing more authentic.

2. Balance Dialogue with Narration

When using colloquialisms in dialogue, constantly repeating it can become monotonous and lead to readers losing interest. Make sure to intersperse narrative passages between dialogue for a smoother read.

3. Create an Atmosphere

By using colloquialisms, writers are able to create a sense of atmosphere or mood that reflects their characters’ personalities and settings in which their characters exist. This will help bring a story alive and give it depth.

4. Use Appropriate Tone

It is important to consider the tone when employing colloquialisms in your work as they should be appropriate for the subject matter and audience. For example, if you are writing for a sophisticated audience then you should avoid using too much slang so as not to offend them or diminish the impact of your message.

5. Keep it Realistic

If a piece of dialogue does not sound realistic enough, it will take away from the believability of your story or message.

When incorporating colloquial language into your writing make sure it sounds authentic and is grammatically correct, with no spelling mistakes or typos that could disrupt the flow of your work’s credibility.

Colloquial Conclusion

Using colloquial words in your writing or informal speech is a powerful way to connect with your audience and bring your characters to life.

Understanding slang words and colloquial phrases can also help you communicate more naturally and comfortably in everyday conversation.

While it’s not always used in formal language, it can be used in this context to come off as more relatable to your audience.

By understanding the basics of colloquialism, you can make sure that any dialogue or narration you write stays realistic and appropriate for your target audience.

With some research into regional language, balanced use of dialogue with narrative passages, creating atmosphere through words, using an appropriate tone, and keeping it real – you’ll be well on your way to mastering this important skill!

Whether you’re penning stories set in Maycomb County Alabama or Moscow Russia – these tips will help ensure that each sentence reads like something from real life.

If you’re looking to spice up your writing, you may also find our articles on the following topics helpful:

• Alliteration
• Power words
• Types of humor

We hope that you found this article on examples of colloquialisms helpful and that it inspires you on your own writing journey!

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Meaning of colloquial in English

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• contextualize
• etymological
• etymologically
• inflected language
• pathetic fallacy
• philological
• philologically
• portmanteau word

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unusual and different from what is normally seen, said, or done

Robbing, looting, and embezzling: talking about stealing

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Colloquial Language: Overview and Comparison with Slang

Learn what colloquial is and how to it compares to slang., i want to learn....

You’ve spent months working hard on your English . You’ve read the books, taken the lessons, and finished the courses. You feel ready to get out there and communicate with native speakers . Armed with your new knowledge and skills, you feel confident a world of meaningful interactions awaits you.

And then it happens. You meet native speakers and you understand some of what they’re saying. But they don’t sound like the people in your English class or textbook. Some of them sound completely different. That’s because they’re using colloquial language.

But don’t despair. We’re here to help you get over the challenge (and there’s no doubt about it — it’s a huge challenge for language learners) of colloquial language.

Read on to find out all about colloquial language, what it is, and how to use it.

Confused about colloquial phrases?

Don’t worry, we'll show you “the ropes” (teach the basics) and learn more! Try Busuu’s free online courses and learn some interesting words and phrases, to use in your day-to-day conversations.

What is colloquial language?

Colloquial language is the casual language ordinary people use in everyday conversations. It’s informal and conversational. It’s “What do you wanna do?” versus “What do you want to do?”

It’s the natural language you hear when native speakers are having conversations with each other. And colloquial language — with its regional differences — is the reason you can visit New York City and hear different phrases from those you hear in Sydney. People in New York and Sydney speak the same language but use their own, local colloquial expressions.

Because language learners spend so much time learning standard English — and because there is so much colloquial language — using colloquial expressions is tough. But it makes the difference between a good communicator and a great one (especially if your goal is to interact with native speakers).

Knowing how and when to use colloquial language will elevate your English skills. You’ll become a natural user of English.

Characteristics of colloquial language

Colloquial language is important for effective, everyday communication with native speakers. But what is it? Let’s take a detailed look at colloquial language.

1. Relaxed grammar

Compared to formal or standard English, colloquial language has more relaxed grammar rules. People use sentence fragments (incomplete sentences or thoughts), contractions, and short forms.

Let’s look at some colloquialism examples:

Sentence fragment: “Had your lunch yet?” (It’s common in colloquial speech to drop modal verbs at the start of questions.)

Contractions: “I ain’t finished yet.” (“ain’t” is a common contraction in the USA for “am not”, “is not”, “are not”, “have not”, “has not”, “do not”, “does not”, “did not” — that’s a lot of uses, ain’t it?)

2. Informal vocabulary

There are tons of English words and phrases that are perfect for spoken communication but not suitable for professional or written communication. These are all colloquial phrases.

Here are some examples (with their standard meanings in brackets):

Buddy (friends)

Gig (a job)

Kids (children)

Munchies (hunger)

Stuff (things)

What’s up? (How are you?)

These are all common phrases for casual, spoken English. But you won’t come across any of them in formal writing.

Bonus tip: Try to use informal phrases like these when you speak English. You’ll sound like a natural.

3. Idiomatic expressions

Idioms are a huge part of colloquial speech (and hard work for language learners). They don’t make literal sense so the meaning isn’t usually obvious. When speaking with native speakers, wow them with your idiom knowledge. But there’s a fine line between using idioms well and using too many of them. Use them sparingly.

Here are some common idioms or colloquial expressions you can use:

“Bite the bullet” means to be brave when facing a difficult situation.

“Cost an arm and a leg” means very expensive.

“Kick the bucket” is a casual — and humorous — way to say someone has died. Be careful when you use this one obviously.

“Spill the beans” means to give away secrets.

“Take a rain check” is a polite way to turn down an invitation and suggest doing it at a later date.

“The ball is in your court” means it’s your responsibility, your turn to do something.

4. Local variations

To make things even more complicated (interesting?) colloquial language varies by region — even within the same country. Let’s take the UK for example. For such a small country, there is a huge variety of colloquial expressions.

Here are some ways people say ‘very good’ in different parts of the UK. Remember these all mean exactly the same things. (Check out our article on 5 expressions used in London also to get an idea!)

Ways people say “very good” in different parts of the UK

There are so many more examples of regional differences in just the UK. English is spoken natively in 20+ countries — there must be hundreds of ways to say “good.”

“Get to grips” with colloquial phrases!

Yes, we know there’s a lot to "get to grips with" (to understand) when it comes to learning colloquial phrases. Busuu is here to help, with online free courses and learning resources that will make you practice and learn in your own way, on your own schedule.

Colloquialism vs slang: How is colloquial language different from slang?

Slang is informal language that people in certain social groups, generations, subcultures, and regions use. Slang changes often — old people often complain they “can’t understand how kids speak nowadays.” Well, that’s because of the ever-changing nature of slang. Popular words come and go.

Slang is context and group specific. That means rock climbers have their own slang. People in their 40s have their own slang. Office workers have theirs. If you’re not part of the group, it can be hard to understand.

Let’s have a look at some of the most common slang that teenagers use nowadays:

‘Bet’ = OK in response to a question or statement

‘Bussin’ = Very good

‘Glow up’ = Change appearance”

‘No kizzy’ = I’m not lying

‘Slay’ = Do a good job

Remember, teenagers use these words. If you’re not part of that group and you try to use these words, don’t be surprised if people look at you funny.

Key differences between colloquial language and slang

Slang is a type of colloquial language. Colloquial language means the casual words that ordinary people use in everyday conversation . Slang is casual language that people use in everyday conversation — but it’s a unique subset of colloquial language because there are some important differences.

Slang terms come and go quickly. They soon fall out of fashion. Teenagers nowadays use the above phrases but teenagers 10 years ago had a completely different set of words. Colloquial language, on the other hand, sticks around. People have been saying “ain’t” for generations, for example.

Colloquial language is usually easier to understand. People of any age or social group can understand it. Slang is usually exclusive to certain groups of people. It’s less accessible and more exclusive.

Finally, slang and identity are closely linked. People can use slang to show they belong to a certain group. It’s part of their cultural and social identity (check out our article on popular slang words used in Spain and Latin America ) For that reason, it often reflects the values and interests of the group. Colloquial language is the general language of an area — it doesn’t represent belonging to any particular group (except from its region).

Let’s look at some examples so you can see what I mean:

“I gotta run” is colloquial language to mean “I have to leave.” Almost all native-English speakers will understand this colloquial expression.

“I only rode ankle slappers today” is surfer slang for “There were only small waves today.” Almost no native-English speakers (only surfers) understand this.

These examples show how colloquial language is more accessible and common than slang, which is so closely linked to the group of people who use it.

How to deal with colloquial language and slang

If you can master colloquial language and slang, you’ll be a natural and effective communicator.

Colloquial language has relaxed grammar rules, informal vocabulary, short forms, and idiomatic phrases. Slang, on the other hand, is language that is used within a specific context and group. It can be hard for outsiders to understand. Colloquial language is more general and easier to understand.

So where do you start as a language learner? This all depends on your goals for learning English. If you have a specific area you want to visit or live in, learn that colloquial language. A good place to start with slang is by learning the words related to your hobbies. They’re a common source of slang.

It won’t be easy to master this kind of informal language. But when you do, you’ll be a natural English speaker.

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Literary Devices

Colloquialism

Last updated on: Jun 4, 2023

Colloquialism in Writing: Speak Your Reader's Language

By: Barbara P.

12 min read

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Jun 2, 2023

You're sitting in your favorite reading nook, flipping through the pages of a beloved novel. 

As you delve deeper into the narrative, you encounter characters whose dialogue reflects the spoken language of the region, the era, or even a particular social group. 

The words they use, the expressions, and the distinct phrases transport you into their world feeling genuine and relatable.

If so, you may have encountered the captivating literary device known as a colloquialism. 

In literature, colloquialism serves as a gateway to the world of everyday language, bringing an authentic and relatable touch to the written word.

In this blog, we will explore colloquialism, along with its type and usage in writing and daily life.

By the end, you'll have a deeper understanding of this remarkable literary device. 

So why wait? Let’s dive in!

On this Page

What is a Colloquialism? 

“A colloquialism can be defined as a linguistic expression, word or phrase that is not formal or literary and is used in ordinary or familiar conversation”

It deviates from formal standards of grammar and vocabulary, encompassing regional dialects, idioms, and slang.

Pronunciation of the Word “Colloquialism”:

The word Colloquialism is derived from the Latin word colloquium. You can pronounce colloquialism as Kuh-loh-kwee-uh-liz-um

Note: The pronunciation is written using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) symbols.

Colloquial vs. Colloquialism: What’s the Difference? 

When it comes to discussing language, it's important to understand the distinction between "colloquial" and "colloquialism." 

While they may sound similar, they have distinct meanings.

"Colloquial" is an adjective that describes language or expressions used in everyday, informal conversation. 

It refers to the relaxed, conversational style of communication that differs from formal or academic language. 

Colloquial language often includes regional dialects, slang, and idiomatic expressions specific to a particular group or community. 

It is the way people naturally speak in their everyday lives.

On the other hand,

"Colloquialism" is a noun that refers to a specific instance or example of colloquial language. 

It is a particular phrase, word, or expression that reflects the informal and conversational style. 

Colloquialisms can vary widely depending on the geographical region, culture, or social group in question. 

They add color, authenticity, and cultural context to written and spoken language.

Purpose of Using Colloquialisms in Writing 

Colloquialisms serve as a reflection of a community's identity, shaping their culture and fostering a sense of belonging. 

In literature, authors use colloquialisms to make characters and settings come alive. 

By using everyday language and regional expressions, they make the dialogue feel more authentic and relatable. 

Colloquialisms help portray the unique traits of different social groups, such as the urban slang or the colorful language of rural communities. 

It's a way for writers to connect readers with the story and its characters on a deeper level.

Types of Colloquialisms 

Let’s explore the various types of colloquialisms including words and phrases, along with examples of each.

Colloquial Words 

Colloquial words are informal expressions that are commonly used in everyday conversation. They add a casual and familiar tone to the language. 

Here are a few examples of colloquial words:

• "Gonna" - short for "going to"

Example: "I'm gonna meet up with some friends this evening."

• "Y'all" - a regional variation of "you all"

Example: "Are y'all coming to the party tomorrow?"

• "Ain't" - a non-standard contraction of "am not," "is not," or "are not"

Example: "I ain't going to let that stop me."

Colloquial Phrases 

Colloquial phrases are informal expressions made up of multiple words. They are commonly used in everyday speech to convey specific meanings.

Read a few examples here:

• "Piece of cake" - something that is very easy or simple

Example: "Don't worry, fixing that issue will be a piece of cake."

• "Break the ice" - to initiate conversation or ease tension in a social situation

Example: "I told a joke to break the ice at the party."

• "Catch some Z's" - to get some sleep

Example: "I'm so tired, I need to catch some Z's."

Colloquialism Aphorisms 

Aphorisms are concise and memorable statements that convey a general truth or wisdom. 

When combined with colloquial language, they take on a distinct flavor and resonate with everyday speech. 

These are some examples of colloquialism aphorisms:

• "You can't judge a book by its cover."

Meaning: You can't form an accurate opinion or assessment based solely on appearances.

• "Better late than never."

Meaning: It's better to do something late than to not do it at all.

• "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade."

Meaning: Make the best out of a difficult situation.

How to Use Colloquialisms in Writing 

Colloquialisms can be powerful tools in writing, adding depth and authenticity to your characters and dialogue. However, it's important to use them effectively and purposefully. 

Here are some tips on how to incorporate colloquialisms into your writing:

Understand Your Audience 

Consider who will be reading your work and tailor your use of colloquialisms accordingly. What may be familiar to one group of readers may be confusing or alienating to others. 

Strike a balance between using colloquial language to create relatable characters and ensuring that your writing remains accessible to a broader audience.

Capture the Essence of Your Characters 

Colloquialisms can be a valuable tool for character development. 

Pay attention to the background, region, and social group your character belongs to. 

Research the specific colloquialisms associated with their culture or upbringing and incorporate them to add depth and authenticity to their dialogue. 

This will help readers connect with your characters on a more personal level.

Use Colloquialisms Sparingly 

While colloquialisms can enhance your writing, be mindful of overusing them. 

Too many colloquial expressions can disrupt the flow of your prose and make it difficult for readers who are less familiar with the language or cultural references to follow along. 

Select a few well-placed colloquialisms that have the most impact and contribute to the overall tone and atmosphere of your narrative.

Context is Key 

Ensure that the colloquialisms you use are appropriate for the context of your narrative essay . 

Consider the time period, setting, and the characters' personalities. Use colloquial language that aligns with these elements to create a believable and cohesive world. 

A character from a different era or background, for example, may use different colloquialisms compared to a character in a contemporary urban setting.

Here is a complete video guide on colloquialism:

Colloquialisms Across English Dialects 

The English language is full of different dialects and variations, and each one has its own unique colloquialisms. 

These unique phrases and words not only reflect the local culture and identity but also add charm and character to everyday conversations.

In this section, we'll explore the colloquialisms found in various English dialects. 

Examples of English Colloquialisms and Their Definitions 

Let's explore some examples of colloquialisms from different English dialects:

Cockney (London, UK):

Cockney colloquialisms are known for their rhyming slang, where words are substituted with phrases that rhyme with the original word. These playful expressions add a touch of whimsy and wordplay to conversations.

Southern American English (Southern United States):

Southern American English is rich with colloquialisms that reflect the hospitality and laid-back nature of the region. These expressions add warmth and friendliness to conversations.

Australian English:

Australian English is known for its distinct colloquialisms, which often involve abbreviations or playful alterations of words. These expressions reflect the easygoing and informal nature of Australian culture.

Scottish English:

Scottish English colloquialisms showcase the rich linguistic heritage of Scotland. With its own unique vocabulary and pronunciation, Scottish English adds a delightful touch to conversations.

Canadian English:

Canadian colloquialisms are unique expressions and phrases that are commonly used in Canadian English. These linguistic gems reflect the cultural identity and regional nuances found within Canada. 

Examples of Colloquialism 

Now, let's explore a few examples of colloquialism in literature to everyday speech. They showcase the diverse and vibrant nature of colloquialisms. 

In Everyday Speech 

Colloquialisms are an integral part of our everyday speech, injecting it with a touch of informality and familiarity. 

These expressions reflect our shared experiences and help create connections between speakers. 

Here are some examples of funny colloquialisms commonly used in everyday conversations:

In Literature 

In literature, authors skillfully employ them to enhance the authenticity and richness of their storytelling.

Here are a few colloquialism examples in literature:

For Everyday Items 

Colloquialisms can even find their way into how we refer to everyday objects and items. 

These colloquial terms often vary regionally and reflect the familiarity and informality of our daily lives. 

Here are some examples of colloquialisms used for everyday items:

For People 

Colloquialisms are not limited to objects and items; they also extend to how we refer to people in our everyday language. 

These colloquial terms often capture unique traits or roles of individuals. They add a touch of familiarity and sometimes even affection to our conversations. 

Here are some examples of colloquialisms used to refer to people:

Related Terms 

Colloquialism is part of a larger family of language phenomena that includes slang and jargon. 

These terms share similarities in their informality and specialized usage. Yet each possesses its own distinct characteristics. 

In this section, we will explore these related terms, delving into the nuances of slang and jargon and how they differ from colloquialism.

Colloquialism vs Slang 

The difference between slang and colloquialism is that it is a subset of colloquial language. 

It involves the use of unconventional words, phrases, and expressions specific to certain social groups or subcultures. 

Slang is ever-changing, with new terms emerging and old ones fading away as trends and cultural shifts occur. It adds an element of vitality and identity to the language of a particular group.

• "Lit" - Referring to something exciting or amazing
• "Sick" - Expressing admiration or approval
• "FOMO" - Acronym for "fear of missing out"

Colloquialism vs Jargon 

Jargon, while distinct from colloquialism and slang, shares similarities in its specialized usage. 

Jargon refers to the technical language used within specific professions, industries, or interest groups.

It consists of terms and phrases that may not be easily understood by those outside of those fields. 

• "ROI" - Acronym for "return on investment," commonly used in business and finance
• "Code blue" - Medical jargon for a cardiac arrest situation
• “Debugging." Process of identifying and fixing errors or bugs in a software program. 

Colloquialism vs Idiom 

Colloquialisms refer to informal and everyday language used in common speech. While idioms are expressions that have a figurative meaning different from their literal interpretation.

• "Break a leg": Used to wish someone good luck, particularly in the performing arts.
• "Cost an arm and a leg": Describes something that is very expensive.
• "Piece of cake": Means that something is very easy or effortless to do.

In conclusion, colloquialism is a powerful literary device that adds depth and authenticity to writing. By incorporating language and regional expressions, you can create vivid characters, relatable dialogues, and immersive settings. 

But if you are looking to elevate your writing skills, let our professional essay writing service guide you. 

Whether you need assistance with research or any “ write my essay ” queries, our expert writers are here to help. 

Place your order today to unlock the potential of your writing today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some synonyms for colloquialism.

Some synonyms for colloquialism include:

• Informal language
• Conversational style
• Everyday language
• Local dialect
• Street language

How do you use colloquial in a sentence?

You can use the term colloquial in a sentence as follows:

I enjoy reading novels written in a colloquial style because they feel more relatable and authentic.

Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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What's the difference between "informal", "colloquial", "slang", and "vulgar"?

It seems many people get confused about the differences (and similarities) between "colloquial" and "slang", so what exactly does each term apply to?

But to be even more thorough it seems to me we can also include a couple more terms which are often applied to language and arrange them into a scale from most acceptable to least acceptable: "informal" > "colloquial" > "slang" > "vulgar"

Are any two synonyms? Do they all overlap semantically or only with their closest neighbours? Or should some of them be seen as independently variable aspects of a word or utterance?

Finally, could each term apply equally as well to a word, a phrase, and a grammatical or syntactical usage?

Perhaps I should've also included "nonstandard" - not sure whether it belongs to the left or the right of "slang" though.

• differences
• colloquialisms
• offensive-language

• 1 There is another question which concentrates at the rightmost end of my scale and beyond: english.stackexchange.com/questions/27217/… –  hippietrail Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 0:23
• 1 There is also a question which compares colloquial and oral English: english.stackexchange.com/questions/21109/… –  hippietrail Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 0:34
• 1 I've posted a followup question on the ambiguous senses of "vulgar": english.stackexchange.com/questions/29889/… –  hippietrail Commented Jun 15, 2011 at 0:15
• What about vernacular: the language or dialect spoken by the ordinary people in a particular country or region. –  user64964 Commented Feb 6, 2014 at 14:09
• 1 Also related: Differences among expression and idiom, as well as colloquial and vernacular . –  Sadeq Dousti Commented Oct 24, 2015 at 15:47

4 Answers 4

[Edited, with examples:] There is some overlap between these terms. People will often even disagree whether a certain expression is best considered informal, or rather colloquial , etc. This is merely an attempt at cataloguing possible associations. If you have suggestions for improvement or refinement, do not hesitate.

• This is the broadest, most neutral word. It just means that speech or writing is on the lower side of the formal–middle–informal spectrum. In informal situations, when your conduct is relaxed in all respects and etiquette matters less, you will use informal language accordingly.
• Varieties of language at lower or higher levels in the spectrum are often referred to as lower or higher registers , although the word register is not necessarily about high or low: it can also just be about varieties that are somehow different from the standard.
• Apart from that, it is neither negative nor positive; that's why it is the best term if you don't want to sound disapproving (and if colloquial is not an option).
• There are various degrees of (in)formality: it is usually not a yes–no distinction.
• Although perhaps higher-class people are sometimes expected to be in formal situations more often, and lower-class people are expected to care less about formality, there is no strict relation to perceived class. There are informal words or phrases that are frequently used by perceived 'higher classes' ( loo ), and, conversely, formal words that are not frequently used by same ( Milady, toilet ).

Colloquial :

Oxford English Dictionary : 2. spec. Of words, phrases, etc.: Belonging to common speech; characteristic of or proper to ordinary conversation, as distinguished from formal or elevated language. (The usual sense.)

• This is quite close to informal .
• It is mostly used with speech rather than writing, though not necessarily so.
• The word is also slightly stronger on average than informal (i.e. more informal).
• It suggests a yes–no qualification: saying more colloquial is not so common.
• It is usually neither positive nor negative, nor felt to be lower class.
• However, the euphemism "colloquial at best" is often used to mean that it is bad style, referring to a colloquialism used in the wrong setting.
• Because colloquial (and informal) language often varies locally or regionally, while formal language does so much less, it is sometimes associated with provincialisms or regionalisms. But I would consider this contingent, not essential to the term itself.
• Slang can be a noun or an adjective; slangy means "resembling or constituting slang".
• It is more often negative than positive—but it can still easily be positive.
• In the formal–middle–informal spectrum, it is more informal than colloquial or informal .
• The word slang itself is a bit informal, while the other words on this page are not.

Oxford English Dictionary : 1. a. The special vocabulary used by any set of persons of a low or disreputable character; language of a low and vulgar type. [notice vulgar used ambiguously]

• Originally, slang was language associated with low socio-economic class or character, and it is still used with that connotation, though by no means always.
• A secondary sense has developed, that of general "group talk" in a mildly disapproving or mocking way—even if this group isn't lower class. This sense is now arguably more common than the first. It is often used ironically, as in lawyer slang .
• A tertiary, entirely neutral sense, "any kind of non-standard group talk", is now commonly used in academia.
• This means literally "of the people".The Oxford English Dictionary describes its development through the ages:

I. 3. Commonly or customarily used by the people of a country; ordinary, vernacular. In common use c 1525–1650; now arch.

II. 9. Belonging to the ordinary or common class in the community; not distinguished or marked off from this in any way; plebeian

II. 13. Having a common and offensively mean character; coarsely commonplace; lacking in refinement or good taste; uncultured, ill-bred.

• It can now be used to describe language in two ways:
• The old-fashioned sense is as (II. 9.) above. It is still in use in dictionaries, but less frequent elsewhere.
• The modern sense is close to (II. 13.), "obscene" or "filthy" to a greater or lesser degree; the lower classes were supposed to be liable to such language, and this sub-sense of (1.) came to dominate the word. So this is obviously even less formal than slang in its lower-class sense. In dictionaries, vulgar could be (1.) or (2.).

Other relevant words:

Jargon : technical or academic language or terminology. This is usually perceived to be somewhat formal, and inaccessible to those outside the field in question.

Vernacular : refers to the native language of normal people, when a different language is used by some groups in society. So this is about different languages, not merely different registers or levels of formality. Usually, the non-vernacular language is used by the educated or higher classes, such as Latin until ca. the 19th century.

I will give a few examples, best description first:

That ain't right.

• vulgar (1. of the common people), old-fashioned label
• perhaps colloquial

I will try and convince her.

• slightly informal
• some might call this slang or vulgar (1.), but it isn't felt to be connected with lower class by most people, nor with certain specific groups

That sucks .

• vulgar (2. obscene), old-fashioned label, because suck has lost its sexual connotation for many people
• vulgar (1. of the common people)
• informal (a bit too general)
• colloquial is possible, but not the best choice

If I was rich, I'd go to London.

• colloquial , but many people "would never say was ", in neither speech nor writing
• slang or vulgar (1. of the common people): probably not

• @Cerberus: I was actually thinking of "vulgar" to mean "rough", "coarse", "unrefined" and that the "obscene" or "offensive" sense was incorrect, but it seems I am wrong and the term is quite fuzzy despite its use in dictionaries. I also thought of "slang" as a specific kind of trendy invented terminology not approved of by others and hence different to "coarse", "rough", "vulgar" though often one feature of that kind of unrefined speech. –  hippietrail Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 1:11
• 1 I believe "colloquial" has connotations of "provincial" or "regional", i.e. informal language which is peculiar to a certain geographical area. –  Ben Voigt Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 1:18
• 1 I don't want to discredit the thoroughness of this answer, but some of this is quite wrong; the definitions are either evasive, inaccurate, or far too generalized. I don't feel this touches on the shades of meaning the question was looking for. –  HaL Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 1:36
• 2 @Cerberus: "slang' is definitely not lower-socioeconomic specific. Read any P.G.Wodehouse to get a headful of upper-crust slang. 'slang' is closely related to 'jargon' and 'argot', specialized vocabulary for a subset of people within a dialect. Also, "ain't" is not slang (it's not specific to a subset of the dialect it occurs in). It is informal, but it is not old-fashioned . –  Mitch Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 17:31
• 1 @tchrist: Who called it that? Ain't ain't jargon, but it is informal. –  Cerberus - Reinstate Monica Commented Dec 20, 2012 at 17:05

Informal - This is directly related to register. It is mostly dictated by social status. One would use formal language in formal setting, such as business functions or any time when you are speaking with members of high/higher society.

Colloquial - This is geographical. There is only one language in England: English. However, two people from different cities might have quite notable difficulty understanding each other in conversation due to colloquialisms. They are often related to the history of the given place and can be influenced by things such as prevalent industry, local surroundings and historical events.

Slang - This tends to be more social. The understanding of slang is usually restricted to a group of peers. This could be a small group or a large group. They could be from very different places and backgrounds. Slang is formed more through mutual understanding and often to intentionally create an element of exclusivity. Because of all these factors, slang tends to change constantly and often does not last long enough to enter into common usage. Though it's a slightly lazy example, consider how teenagers speak. Each generation tends to have it's own slang. It is not constant. It exists for that group of people at that time. It is essentially a type of jargon.

Vulgar - This is a little different to the other terms. Each of the others refers to a style of speaking that an individual might adopt and would affect all elements of speech. This term however, is restricted really to vocabulary. Linguistically speaking, if a person is vulgar, it means that they tend to use obscenities. It might also refer to their selection of crass or crude conversation topics.

Hope that helps.

• 1 Comments from downvoters would be very much appreciated... –  Karl Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 18:32
• I don't know why people would've downvoted this answer but for me there are two surprises both of which have already come up in other people's answers: 1) That colloquial is related to region rather than related to colloquy and 2) That vulgar would only mean obscene and not rough/coarse/unrefined, though your addittion of crass/crude perhaps bridges that gap. –  hippietrail Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 23:54
• You're welcome ;-) As you are also welcome to correct my own typos as well whenever you find some. I know there are still a lot of them lurking in the depth of EL&U archives. –  Alain Pannetier Φ Commented Jun 15, 2011 at 19:48

There are slight differences between these four terms:

Informal has to do with speech or writing that is not strictly formal, or strictly standard. Colloquialism refers to informal speech or writing. Slang is a form of colloquialism, but slang isn't necessarily vulgari.e. 'dog and bone' for 'telephone', or 'bouncer' for soomething really good.

Vulgar is anything that is offensive, in formal, or informal speech. It could include slang that refers to indecent subjects i.e. 'frigging', or formal speech that refers to indecent subjects i.e.'incest'

• example of vulgar in formal speech? :) –  Unreason Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 0:24
• 1 I think of "vulgar" as the opposite of "refined" so while not the opposite of "formal" it's hard to think of a way to be both formal and vulgar. Perhaps a comical rewording of "You can stick this job up your arse!" into "Dear Sir, please insert this job anally"? (-: –  hippietrail Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 0:31
• 1 "Incest" may describe a vulgar concept, but I don't agree that it is itself a vulgar word. –  Kit Z. Fox ♦ Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 1:03
• I'll try to think of another one. Thanks for pointing that out. –  Thursagen Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 1:03

After attending an Advanced Placement College Board English Literature seminar in 2010, the presenter (sorry, can't recall her name but she was a professor at a Pennsylvania State College, maybe IUP) suggested these distinctions:

• informal — what the majority of a culture uses for writing/speaking;
• colloquial — words from a specific region ( y'all for American South, *yinz for Pittsburgh);
• slang — words from a time period ( groovy for 60's, rad for 80's).

Never did get any second source to verify, but these have been good discussion points in my classroom for teaching about this topic. What do you all think?

• 2 There is some truth here, but much confusion. Yes, informal is typically used for expressions which the majority of a culture knows and uses; but specifically it means expressions which are not used in formal contexts. A colloquialism is not regional but conversational, typically with an informal context ("colloquy" means "conversation"). Slang does not mean from a time period; it means a very informal expression often known only to a specific group of people. Slang terms often have short lifetimes and so can sometimes be associated in our minds with time periods. –  MetaEd Commented Oct 15, 2012 at 3:36

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