Slang vs. Colloquial: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 15, 2023
Slang is informal language specific to a group; colloquial is everyday informal speech.
Key Differences
Slang is a type of language that consists of words and phrases regarded as very informal and are more common in speech than writing. Colloquial, on the other hand, refers to language used in ordinary or familiar conversation, not formal or literary.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Slang often emerges within certain groups or communities, making it a marker of in-group identity. Colloquial expressions are regionally accepted and understood, without necessarily being tied to a specific group.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Slang can be short-lived, often changing or falling out of use quickly, particularly with shifts in culture or societal trends. Colloquial language, while informal, tends to have more staying power, with many colloquialisms remaining stable over longer periods of time.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Slang might not be understood by those outside the specific group or community that uses it. In contrast, colloquial language, being a part of everyday conversation, is generally comprehensible to a wider audience, even if some regional variations might require clarification.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Comparison Chart
ADVERTISEMENT
Slang and Colloquial Definitions
ADVERTISEMENT
Slang
Language deviating from standard usage.
I'm feeling salty about that game.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Slang
A form of language peculiar to a particular group.
That new song is lit!
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 31, 2023
Colloquial
Everyday language, regional in nature.
Y'all come back now, ya hear?
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Slang
Terms not always understood outside a particular community.
He's the GOAT in basketball.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Colloquial
Informal language used in ordinary conversation.
I wanna go to the movies.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 31, 2023
Colloquial
Phrases that might not appear in formal writing.
It's a piece of cake.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 31, 2023
Slang
A kind of language occurring chiefly in casual and playful speech, made up typically of coinages and figures of speech that are deliberately used in place of standard terms for added raciness, humor, irreverence, or other effect.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 09, 2019
FAQs
What is slang?
Slang is a very informal language used by specific groups or communities.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Are colloquial expressions regional?
Yes, colloquial expressions can be regional but are generally widely understood.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Is colloquial speech considered incorrect?
While informal, colloquial speech is not inherently incorrect.
Janet White
Oct 31, 2023
Can a colloquial expression become standard?
Over time, some colloquial expressions can become accepted as standard language.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Why is slang important?
Slang can be a marker of identity, showcasing cultural or group-specific nuances.
Harlon Moss
Oct 31, 2023
Is slang short-lived?
Slang can be short-lived, often changing with cultural or societal trends.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Can slang be regional?
While slang can originate in specific regions, it is more tied to groups than geography.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
What does colloquial mean?
Colloquial refers to informal language used in everyday conversation.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 31, 2023
Can slang be used in formal writing?
Slang is typically avoided in formal writing.
Sara Rehman
Oct 31, 2023
Is colloquial language casual?
Yes, colloquial language is casual and used in familiar conversations.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Are colloquialisms used worldwide?
Every language has its own colloquialisms based on regional and cultural variations.
Harlon Moss
Oct 31, 2023
How do I identify slang in a text?
Slang often stands out as very informal and might not be widely understood outside a specific context.
Janet White
Oct 31, 2023
How does colloquial language differ from slang?
Colloquial language is informal everyday speech, while slang is very informal and often group-specific.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Is all slang colloquial?
While all slang is informal and can be considered colloquial, not all colloquial language is slang.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 31, 2023
Does slang enrich a language?
Yes, slang can add vibrancy and nuance to a language.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
How does slang originate?
Slang often originates within specific groups or communities, reflecting shared experiences or trends.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Is slang exclusive to youth?
While often associated with youth, slang can be used by and originate from any age group.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Can colloquial language be humorous?
Yes, colloquial expressions can often have humorous or playful connotations.
Janet White
Oct 31, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
