Why you should study slang and why some teachers don't want you to!

Why You Should Study Slang When Learning a Language (And Why Some Teachers Don't Want You To)

Learning a new language is an exciting journey—one that opens doors to new cultures, friendships, and opportunities. But if you've ever tried to chat with native speakers outside the classroom, you might have noticed something: real conversations are packed with words and phrases you never learned in your textbook.

That's slang.

Slang is the informal, ever-evolving language of everyday life. It's the difference between saying "That's interesting" and "That's lit!" in English, or "C'est bien" versus "C'est ouf!" in French. But while slang is a vital part of fluency, some teachers shy away from it. Why is that? And why should you study it anyway?

The Case for Studying Slang

1. Slang Makes You Sound Natural

Textbooks teach you the "proper" way to speak, but real conversations are full of shortcuts, idioms, and expressions that change with time and place. Using slang shows you're not just reciting phrases—you're engaging with the language as it's actually spoken.

2. It Helps You Understand Native Speakers

Ever been in a conversation where everyone bursts out laughing, but you missed the joke because of a slang word? Slang is often the key to understanding humor, sarcasm, and cultural references.

3. It Builds Connections

Using slang can make you feel like part of the group. It signals that you're not just a learner, but someone who's interested in the culture and wants to communicate on a deeper level.

4. It's Fun!

Slang is creative and playful. Learning it can make language learning feel less like a chore and more like an adventure.

Why Some Teachers Avoid Slang

1. It's Always Changing

Slang evolves quickly. What's cool today might be outdated tomorrow. Teachers may worry about teaching something that's no longer relevant.

2. It's Regional

Slang varies by country, city, and even neighborhood. A word that's common in Mexico City might be unknown in Madrid. Teachers may not want to confuse students with too many variations.

3. It's Informal

Slang is often considered "improper" for formal settings. Teachers may prioritize standard language to prepare students for exams, job interviews, or professional environments.

4. It Can Be Risky

Some slang words have multiple meanings, and using them wrong can lead to awkward or offensive situations. Teachers may avoid slang to prevent misunderstandings.

Examples of Slang in Different Languages

Here's a taste of slang from around the world:

Language

Slang Word/phrase

Meaning

Example Sentence

English

"Lit"

Amazing, exciting

"That party was lit!"

French

"Ouf"

Crazy, amazing

"Ce concert était ouf !"

Spanish

"Chido" (Mexico)

Cool, great

"¡Qué chido tu nuevo corte de pelo!"

German

"Geil"

Awesome, cool

"Das Konzert war richtig geil!"

Japanese

"ヤバい (Yabai)"

Amazing (or terrible, depending on context)

"このラーメン、ヤバい！" (This ramen is amazing!)

Italian

"Figo"

Cool, awesome

"Quella macchina è fighissima!"

How to Learn Slang Safely

• Listen to native speakers: Watch movies, TV shows, and YouTube videos. Pay attention to how people talk in casual settings.
• Ask questions: If you hear a word you don't know, ask a native speaker what it means and when it's appropriate to use.
• Use apps and social media: Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and language exchange apps are great for picking up current slang.
• Practice with caution: Try out slang in low-stakes conversations first, and be open to correction.

Final Thoughts

Slang is a powerful tool for anyone serious about mastering a language. While it's important to learn the formal rules, embracing slang will help you connect with native speakers, understand pop culture, and truly live the language.

So next time your teacher skips over a slang word, don't be afraid to ask about it—or better yet, go out and discover it for yourself!

What's the coolest slang word you've learned in another language? Share it in the comments!