Most people generally consider jargon or slang words to be specific phrases that most commonly inhabit or exist outside of the standard English arena. However, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, these are “words and phrases” that are visible in “common colloquial use.”
The word jargon or slang often denotes a kind of vagabond language that always dwells on the known outskirts of legitimate expression or speech. However, to one’s utter surprise, the general use of this language can be visible in the known company of recognized words, even sometimes respectable words.
In truth, most people often identify the term ‘slang’ as some odd or peculiar expression or word. Moreover, a common yet strong opinion often points out that some specific classes use those words in some special cases, denoting some specific senses. This indicates that the entire usage goes beyond the boundaries of conventional or regular methods.
The appearance of certain sudden excitements is a major cause, often leading to the emergence of slang words as expressions. Several times, peculiar circumstances may lead to the use of odd or queer words. In reality, people often identify these words as slang or jargon. In truth, one common practice is visible among most people: differentiating oddity from normalcy or regularity.
Every individual possesses common sense about good, average, and peculiar phrases. This inborn insight helps him or her to always stay away from using the commonly defined oddness in speeches. The sense of understanding and the effort to identify and mark the odd and good phrases are two of the prime causes that help coin jargon words in the English language.
According to some opinions, the term jargon or slang always confirms a personal association, so it is generally personal in origin. That is, to some extent, true. The reason is that most people often use slang expressions according to their personal requirements. However, several practical instances indicate that the use of slang words is also visible in the regular speech of specific classes, professions, or trades.
The significant fact is that different people always belong to different walks of life. Naturally, they always have their own specific inventions regarding slang phrases. They even have their own ways of using those terms according to their desires and understandings. For instance, professionals such as lawyers, traders, sailors, and many others in the professional arena carry their own oddities or idioms in their speeches. They devise their slang terms according to their nature and situation. Moreover, the circumstances in which a person dwells and the factors that confirm molding his character and personality emerge as prime factors behind his desire, invention, and use of slang words.
Persons growing up in a polite, civil, amiable, and restful environment often try to avoid these phrases. On the contrary, a rustic, impolite, and less gentle living atmosphere often unlocks the scope and desire to utter those not-so-preferable phrases. Moreover, the advent of severe rude situations ensures changes in attitude and voice to some particular vulgar-looking terms.
The important thing is that changes don’t come instantly. It depends on the severity of the situation. If the momentum appears acute, the changes will emerge in a short time. However, if the pavements emerge slowly, then there must be gradual outcomes.
The advancements in the English language reveal that many years ago, the famous Dr. Johnson’s Dictionary didn’t at all contain the word slang. That means during that time, English-speaking people lacked a clear understanding of the term slang or slang words. In 1928, Webster, perhaps for the first time, mentioned a few words about it. It defined the term as “low, vulgar, unmeaning language.”
However, other English dictionaries provide a different sense regarding the meaning of ‘slang.’ The old and even current editions of the Oxford Dictionary define this matter brilliantly. They show that the words, once taken as slang phrases or words, no longer remain as peculiar, odd, or vulgar terms. These words are now integral parts of the ordinary vocabulary.
For example, the word ‘row’ was considered a slang term during the 18th century. However, many eminent modern authors have used this phrase mainly to define the sense of vulgar brawl. Also, the word ‘Joke’ was not a good choice in the past. It remained a member of the arena of slang words. Nevertheless, modern English has accepted it as a harmless term. Many English-speaking people accept it as a good sign. They often believe and, at the same time, define that the popular English language remains a true gold mine of advancements and changes due to this feature.
In truth, jargon or slang words generally remain outside the periphery of recognized or legitimate speech. But, in reality, a considerable portion of it has already enriched the English language. As a result, it has also helped to maintain its growth in some way. These words ensured an increased vocabulary. They also confirmed the introduction of new meanings and dimensions to English. In short, this undeniably makes the English language more advanced. As a result, this language becomes enriched and more meaningful. This implies adding new uses to the widely accepted English language.
One undeniable truth is that some slang or jargon expressions remain purely colloquial and gradually gain admission into legitimate speech. Examples of such expressions include “by hook or by crook,” “hit or miss,” and “sink or swim,” among many others.
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