Master colloquial English: keys to slang

 

Mastering a language has many facets. There are many elements that you have to learn: vocabulary, grammar, verbal system... And don't forget to also get closer to the real language, colloquial English. Always knowing their contexts of use, of course. Here we offer you a few keys to colloquial English, called slang.

Colloquial English: definition

What are we talking about when we say colloquial? It is a more informal variety of all languages, less restricted and more relaxed in terms of the norms of the linguistic authorities. It is also the most alive language and most exposed to rapid changes. Do you want to discover the keys to colloquial English?

Expressions and phrases

Some expressions of this way of speaking, present in the streets, are the ones we present below. It must be taken into account and mentioned that colloquial English expressions may vary in each English-speaking country. So an expression that is often said in the United Kingdom may sound strange if we say it in the middle of the Big Apple.

Colloquial English is characterized by set phrases and expressions whose meaning is usually not literal:

• Is cutting edge – It's the latest fashion
• Water under the bridge – past water
• Is giving her hell – He is making her life impossible
• It's raining cats and dogs – It's raining cats and dogs
• It's on me. – I'll take care of the bill
• It's about time. - It was time
• It's finger licking good. – It's finger-lickin' good
• Keep an eye on. – Keep an eye on this for me
• Make my day. - Make my day
• My bad (United States). - It was my fault
• No worries – don't worry
• No problem. - No problem. It is often used to respond to “Thanks.”
• So long. - See you around
• So do I. – Me too
• Get along. - Get along
• To have a blast. - Have fun
• To make a point. – Make a clue point clear
• What a pity. - What a pity
• You are on thin ice. – You are taking a risk