Slang
“Slang,
in standard English,” according to Roberts “does indeed refer to the language
characteristic of a group within the society but does not refer to the total
language of the group. In fact it is normally restricted to words, phrases,
expressions which are novel and initially have a dramatic effect, but because
they are fashionable and consequently over-used, either they are soon forgotten
or they pass into the general vocabulary of the language. Slang expressions are
basically of two types:
1)
they are either normal English words which are suddenly used with an unusual
meaning or
2) everyday meanings
or concepts that are captured in a new or concocted word.
Slang
expressions are characteristic of teenagers more than any other single group.
The current use of the Rasta words and expressions by the general public
throughout the West Indies is a good example of slang use.”
Jargon
Lord
et al (2012) said jargon terms and expressions specific to a professional
group, for example, medical words, computer terminology. Examples of Jargon:
Sometimes people use jargon to appear more
important or smarter than others or even to confuse people. This is because
jargon is usually associated with the medical or legal profession. It can be
used within sports or casual groups as well. The following are some examples of
jargon in various groups.
· In the medical field, “agonal” is a term to signify a major, negative
change in a patient’s condition. BP means blood pressure, FX means fracture,
and JT is a joint. Nothing by mouth is NPO, intramuscular is IM, and potassium
is K.
·
· Police
jargon would include
“suspect” as a person whom the police think may have committed a crime, “10-4”
means” OK”, or “got it”, “Code Eight” means an officer needs help immediately,
“Code Eleven” means you are on the scene, and “FTP” means failure to pay a
fine.·
· The
military has its own
jargon, too. TDY is temporary duty, AWOL is absent without leave, SQDN is a
squadron, SAM is surface to air missile, PCS is permanent change of station,
and LES is leave and earning statement.