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What are the most popular English slangs?

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English slangs? Have you ever read something and were unable to comprehend a single word? You have probably run into English slang!

This particular language of English is difficult for even native speakers to understand. Moreover, unlike traditional English grammar and syntax, slang follows its own rules.

And, to make matters a little more complicated, slang language is constantly evolving and differs considerably from one English-speaking country to another, which makes it all the more difficult.

Fortunately, learning to speak this informal English is not impossible. Learn to identify slang, improve your vocabulary and memorize specific terms of use, so you will be able, in no time, to speak like a native.

What is English slang?

English slang is a colloquial language that uses common phrases, acronyms, and newly created terms. Commonly used with young people, this everyday language spreads on social media platforms, blogs, and other places where users interact. You can also hear it in conversations with friends at school, on the street, or in movies and TV shows.

Teens often create their slang language to discuss without being understood in the presence of parents, teachers, or any other form of authority. In this way, the related words are understood only by them.

In addition, slang includes abbreviations and shorthand words. These light versions of traditional words were designed to look functional. For example, the well-known acronym "LOL" was initially coined to avoid the more extended typing "laughing out loud."

Follow the tips below to get started.

So, now you know what slang is, but how do you figure out its meaning? Or better yet, how do you start chatting in English slang with your friends on the net?

1. Eat "every day" from English programs posted online

Reading Shakespeare's most significant works or immersing yourself in The New York Times might be an excellent way to deepen your understanding of the English language rules. Still, most people you meet do not speak such formal English. Therefore, it is necessary to vary the diverse sources of English that you use for your language learning.

It is not uncommon for a lot of people to watch TV shows to learn English. And that is a good start! But you can also find a lot of great content through shows posted by famous people on the internet, many of whom use slang words.

2. Listen to popular music

If you are not already listening to English music, you should start immediately. You will develop your listening comprehension, master new vocabulary words, and have fun simultaneously. In addition, the lyrics of the songs often reflect the way people express themselves daily.

Why not target an artist whose music you particularly enjoy? Then you can listen to his latest album and try to capture the lyrics. If you do not understand everything, there are excellent dictionaries available online for deciphering English slang. These will allow you to master these new words.

3. Spend time with English speakers

If you spend time with English people, you will learn to speak slang naturally. But, of course, you cannot surround yourself with English-speaking friends if you live in a country where people speak another language.

Fortunately, the internet offers many ways to meet English speakers. Why not join a social network and meet new people? In addition, reading comments on discussion boards, blogs, or other websites, provides excellent insight into how English speakers interact with each other. But, beware of "trolls," i.e., disruptors or provocateurs on the forums!

Learn these 14 English slangs

Now you know how to learn slang words in English but still feel a bit stuck? When all else fails, memorization should help you familiarize yourself with it. The terms listed below represent a non-exhaustive list of famous English slang words. Do you already know some of them?

1. Awesome

Let us start with a simple one. Chances are you have heard it on TV shows and movies before. Awesome means "amazing," "extraordinary." For example, "I went with my family to Disneyland. It was awesome - It was awesome! ". In other words, you had a great time.

2. Freaking (making you sick, crazy, crazy)

Many people use the word "Freaking" to play down a curse. The use of "Freaking" emphasizes the word it precedes. For example, "It makes me sick that I haven't seen you!" - I am freaking sad I did not see you! "(I am very sad).

3. Chill or Hang Out

The terms chill or hang out mean "to share a moment of relaxation with someone." These words, innocuous at first, have given rise to new slang expressions. For example, you may have heard of the phrase "Netflix and Chill," literally "watch a Netflix stream and relax." This expression, diverted, has become a flirting tactic. People use it on dating networks to invite someone to watch a movie and spend the night together.

4. Knackered (exhausted, exhausted)

The word Knackered originates from the UK, meaning "sleepy" or "really tired." So if you're "really knackered after an exam - knackered after an exam," you want one thing, to come home and collapse on your bed.

5. Savage (terrible, harsh, cruel)

Savage is new to English slang. It is akin to somewhat "harsh" or even "cruel" behavior. If your boyfriend or girlfriend text you to break up with you, your best friend might send them a response like, "Wow. It is a cruel way of doing things! - Whoa. That is savage! ".

6. BAE (before anyone else)

BAE is pronounced "bay," meaning "before anyone else." Many friends use this word among themselves to describe themselves. "Do you know Sarah? She comes before everyone else - She's my BAE". People also use BAE to caption their photos or as a flirty term for a friend. "Hey, BAE! ".

7. Fam (family)

The term "family - Famille" is a common word known to many English learners. The word Fam is a slang term that originates from "the family." People use this word to describe their best friends. For example, "I went to the mall with the fam earlier today."

8. SMH

SMH is also an acronym. It means "shake your head," and most people use it in text messages or on the internet to show their displeasure or dismay when something terrible happens. "Did she say those mean things about you? SMH! In other words, it is not cool!

9. Salty (to be angry)

Like the bitterness of salt in the mouth, the word "salty" describes a person with great resentment. You can use this word to describe a person who is "angry" with someone or something that has happened. "I just spoke to Megan on the phone. Her father confiscated her car keys, and she is angry! - she is salty! ".

10. BRB - Be right back (I will be right back)

The term BRB dates back to the late 90s. It was used frequently in discussions on the net. It just means "I'll be right back." People used it to pause their conversation for a few minutes. Unlike many slang words that have evolved, the term BRB has remained a classic and continues to be used.

11. We point (be on point, be on top, nickel)

If something is "on point," it means "this is awesome" or "amazing." People often use this expression to compliment: "Daniel, your new haircut is awesome - your new haircut is on point." You can also hear "on fleek," which means pretty much the same thing, either: perfect, excellent, or so cool.

12. Slay

Slay is a funny term used to refer to a great deed committed by a person. For example, "Did you see Tom play basketball this weekend?" He slaughtered them all on the ground! - He was slaying it on that court! ". Other similar expressions exist such as "to rock it - to tear" (He rocked it! He has torn everything!) Or "to kill it - to kill, to destroy" (He killed it! - he has destroyed everything!).

13. IMO (in my opinion)

The term IMO means "in my opinion." You can also see "IMHO" (IMHO). Most teenagers until This acronym is used when expressing an unpopular idea or something a little daring. Of course, you will see this term commonly used to communicate on the internet. For example, "IMO, you should stop talking to her - In my opinion, you should stop talking to her."

14. Shade (cut a suit, smash some sugar on someone is back)

Shade is a verbal insult to someone else (the slang term "dig" can also be used). It is used when someone wants to say something mean or unwelcome to someone else "they threw shade." Also, those who often peddle gossip about their friends are called "shady - dubious, sleazy."

Do you feel lost?

English slang is confusing. But, if you are reading this list and you feel lost, do not despair! Many native English speakers would not be able to understand them as well. Moreover, it is perfectly normal if you do not recognize them in everyday language. Learning slang vocabulary is a terrific way to brush up on your English skills, but it's still a fun bonus that doesn't need to be mastered.

Do your best to familiarize yourself with this informal English. The more you chat with English speakers, the more you will improve your knowledge of English slang. And one day, you too are going to "slay - slaughter it all" when you find yourself "chill with your fam - chilling with your friends" and "throw savage shade - drooling nonsense on others."