Colloquialism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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colloquialism
[ˌkɒləˈkwiːəlɪz(ə)m ]
Definition
informal language
Colloquialism refers to informal words, phrases, or even slang that are used in everyday conversation instead of formal language. Colloquialisms are often specific to a certain region or group of people, and can vary widely in different cultures.
Synonyms
informal language, slang, vernacular.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| colloquialism |
Used to describe expressions or phrases that are used in casual conversation rather than formal speech or writing. These are often specific to a particular region or community.
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| slang |
Comprised of very informal words and expressions that are often used by specific groups of people, like teenagers or certain subcultures. Slang can quickly become outdated.
|
| informal language |
Refers to everyday language that is used in casual conversation with friends and family, as opposed to formal language which is for professional settings or official documents.
|
| vernacular |
Language or dialect spoken by the ordinary people in a particular region or country. It often includes local words and phrases that are distinct from formal language.
|
Examples of usage
- It's common to use colloquialisms like 'gonna' instead of 'going to' in casual conversation.
- One example of a colloquialism is 'y'all' which is commonly used in the southern United States.
- Colloquialisms can add a sense of familiarity and informality to speech.
- Understanding colloquialisms can be challenging for non-native speakers of a language.
- Colloquialisms can change over time as language evolves.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Linguistics
- These expressions can vary greatly from one locale to another, making them key identifiers of local culture.
- Colloquialisms can reflect social status, with more casual language often used among friends and less formal situations.
- The use of slang is a common form of colloquialism and changes rapidly, influenced by technology and youth culture.
Cultural Significance
- Colloquialisms can foster a sense of belonging and identity within a community or group.
- Certain phrases become symbols of cultural moments, like 'groovy' from the 1960s signifying a whole era.
- These expressions can help bridge gaps in communication, making conversations feel more relatable and friendly.
Education
- Understanding colloquialisms is important for language learners to effectively communicate and integrate with native speakers.
- Teachers often incorporate colloquial phrases in lessons to prepare students for real-life conversations.
- They highlight the difference between formal and informal language styles, enhancing overall linguistic proficiency.
Pop Culture
- Colloquial terms often appear in popular songs and movies, contributing to their accessibility and relatability.
- Many comedians rely on colloquialism to connect with audiences, using everyday language to evoke humor.
- Popular TV shows often introduce new colloquialisms that can quickly become widely adopted phrases.
Origin of 'colloquialism'
Main points about word origin
- The term originates from the Latin word 'colloquium', meaning 'conversation'.
- Colloquialisms started gaining popularity in literature during the 18th century as authors wanted to make their characters more relatable.
- Many colloquialisms evolve from regional dialects, reflecting the culture and lifestyle of a specific area.
The term 'colloquialism' originated from the Latin word 'colloquium', meaning 'conversation'. It has been used in English since the 18th century to describe informal language used in everyday conversation. Colloquialisms play an important role in language diversity and reflect the cultural context in which they are used.