Mastering Slang
5 min read
Is Your Head in the Clouds?
In English, “head in the clouds” means someone is daydreaming or not paying attention—but sometimes, having your head in the clouds can inspire new ideas. When learning English, understanding slang like this can make you feel more connected and confident. Let’s explore how to master slang and use it to make your language learning more practical and fun.
Where Will You Use English the Most?
Slang isn’t one-size-fits-all. Where and how you use English will determine which slang is most useful for you (Oxford English Dictionary, n.d.; Bowen Street Press, 2023).
At work? Learn professional terms and workplace idioms.
Social settings? Focus on casual phrases and everyday expressions.
Online communities? Dive into slang used in memes, gaming, or niche interests.
Think about how your first language changes from city to city or community to community—English is the same.
Focus on What You Need
Tailoring your learning to your interests will help you absorb language faster and keep you motivated.
Identify topics that excite you—whether it’s music, sports, or fashion.
Learn slang that connects to these areas. For example:
Music slang:
“Drop a beat” → Start playing music.
“This slaps” → A song that’s really good.
“On repeat” → A song you play over and over.
“Killer hook” → A memorable part of a song usually the chorus.
Not sure where to start?
Book a free session to ask for tips.
Expose Yourself to Natural Speech
The best way to learn slang is to hear it in context. Surround yourself with as much natural English as possible:
Podcasts and interviews: Great for picking up conversational phrases.
Vlogs: See how expressions are used in real life.
Conversations: If you can, speak with experienced speakers or advanced learners to practice.
Conclusion
Learning slang doesn’t just make your English sound natural—it helps you connect with people and cultures. Focus on slang that’s relevant to your goals, immerse yourself in natural speech, and don’t hesitate to ask a teacher for help.
Sources
Oxford English Dictionary. (n.d.). Slang. In The Oxford English Dictionary. https://www.oed.com/discover/the-rise-and-rise-of-slang/
Bowen Street Press. (2023, September 1). Slang and context. https://bowenstreetpress.com/gibberish-articles/slang-and-context
