Is Slang a Language?

Slang is language (words, phrases, and usages) of an informal register more common to spoken than written usage.

Is slang considered a language?

Slang is very informal language. It can offend people if it is used about other people or outside a group of people who know each other well. We usually use slang in speaking rather than writing. Slang normally refers to particular words and meanings but can include longer expressions and idioms.

Does slang mean short language?

There are all manner of false word origins that get tossed around the web, but one of the more common ones I see is that “slang” is short for “shortened language,” and while it's believable, there's no historical record to indicate that this was ever true.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.