Slang is a type of language consisting of words and phrases regarded as very informal, often associated with a particular group, region, or generation. Slang is more common in speech than in formal writing and changes rapidly over time.

Examples include "lit" for exciting, "ghost" for suddenly cutting off contact, and "salty" for resentful. Slang can express identity, humour, and solidarity, but it can also become dated quickly. It differs from jargon, which is specialised, and from colloquialisms, which are informal but widely accepted.

Key points

• Very informal language
• Associated with groups or generations
• Changes rapidly
• Expresses identity and humour