Takes popular standard English terms and traces the development of their slang equivalents over the past 500 years

"In this Very Short Introduction Jonathon Green asks what words qualify as slang, and whether slang should be acknowledged as a language in its own right. Looking forward, he considers what the digital revolution means for the future of slang."--Cover flap.

This history of the development of slang is intended as an enjoyable guide for the writer, the student of words, the crossword-puzzle addict and the compulsive browser. A slang term may begin life with one meaning and then gradually take on another; and new terms are constantly emerging, while others disappear. The book tackles its subject theme by theme, taking Standard English words such as money, sex and alcohol, and tracing the development of their slang equivalents over the past 500 years.

This book traces the development of English slang from the earliest records to the latest tweet. It explores why and how slang is used, and traces the development of slang in English-speaking nations around the world. The records of the Old Bailey and machine-searchable newspaper collections provide a wealth of new information about historical slang, while blogs and tweets provide us with a completely new perspective on contemporary slang. Based on inside information from real live slang users as well as the best scholarly sources, this book is guaranteed to teach you some new words that you shouldn't use in polite company. Teachers, politicians, broadcasters, and parents characterize the language of teenagers as sloppy, repetitive, and unintelligent, but these complaints are nothing new. In 1906, an Australian journalist overheard some youths on a street-corner: Things will be bally slow till next pay-day. I've done in nearly all my spond. Here, now; cheese it, or I'll lob one in your lug. Lend us a cigarette. Lend it; oh, no, I don't part. Look out, here's a bobby going to tell us to shove along. What, he wondered, was the world coming to. For the 411, read on ...

With its unparalleled coverage of English slang of all types (from 18th-century cant to contemporary gay slang), and its uncluttered editorial apparatus, Cassell's Dictionary of Slang was warmly received when its first edition appeared in 1998. 'Brilliant.' said Mark Lawson on BBC2's The Late Review; 'This is a terrific piece of work - learned, entertaining, funny, stimulating' said Jonathan Meades in The Evening Standard.But now the world's best single-volume dictionary of English slang is about to get even better. Jonathon Green has spent the last seven years on a vast project: to research in depth the English slang vocabulary and to hunt down and record written instances of the use of as many slang words as possible. This has entailed trawling through more than 4000 books - plus song lyrics, TV and movie scripts, and many newspapers and magazines - for relevant material. The research has thrown up some fascinating results

"The Vulgar Tongue tells the full story of English language slang, from its origins in early British beggar books to its spread in American and Australian culture in the eighteenth century"--

If you want to explore the slang words and phrases in the 1920s, then this book is for you. You will find this pocket guide great for: - Quick Reference - Murder Mystery Parties - Theme Parties - Reference for Writing (e.g. stories, plays, etc.) - Fun!

The Slangman Guide to STREET SPEAK 1 takes you through the colorful and popular world of everyday American slang and idioms used by all native speakers of English in the US. It has been featured on CNN, BBC, Voice of America, and several other international TV broadcasts.For ESL (English as a Second Language) students, this book equals years of living in the USA and will help you to quickly integrate into the American culture by learning not only the slang and idioms, but we'll also take you through the contractions and reductions used by everyone such as I dunno ("I do not know") and D'jeet jet? ("Did you eat yet?") and so many others.Entertaining dialogues, activities and games will make sure you have a blast ("have fun") and don't sweat it ("get tense") as you get up to speed ("become current") on all the typical slang and idioms used by virtually every native speaker! So chill out ("relax"), kick back ("get comfortable") as you learn the real language spoken by virtually all of us in the USA!NOTE: Audio CDs sold separately.The Slangman Guide to STREET SPEAK 1 contains popular chapters on slang and idioms associated with:PartiesShoppingMoviesAirportsRestaurantsHealthMarketsAt SchoolDating

Ever find yourself lost in a sea of modern expressions, wondering what on earth your friends, family, or co-workers are talking about? Fear not, because the American Slang Dictionary is here to save the day! Packed with hundreds of contemporary slang words and phrases, this book is your essential guide to understanding and mastering the vibrant, ever-evolving world of American slang. From the boardroom to the classroom, and every social media feed in between, American slang is everywhere. Whether you're trying to keep up with the latest trends, impress your peers, or simply avoid any embarrassing misunderstandings, this dictionary has got you covered. Inside, you'll find: Clear Definitions: Easy-to-understand explanations for each slang term, ensuring you grasp the true meaning and context. Examples in Action: Real-life usage examples that show you how to incorporate these expressions into your everyday conversations. Humor and Wit: A light-hearted approach that makes learning slang fun and engaging, perfect for readers of all ages. Whether you're a native speaker looking to stay current, a language enthusiast eager to explore new linguistic territories, or a student navigating the colorful landscape of American English, the American Slang Dictionary is your go-to resource. Get ready to boost your vocabulary, sharpen your communication skills, and join the ranks of the effortlessly cool. Grab your copy today and step into the lively, laugh-out-loud world of American slang. It's time to talk the talk and walk the walk-like a true slang-savvy pro!