Learning English isn’t just about mastering grammar and vocabulary from textbooks—it’s also important to understand the everyday slang that native speakers use. Slang words are informal, often regional, and can make your conversations sound more natural and relaxed. For ESL students, learning a few common slang words can help you better understand movies, music, and real-life conversations. Here’s a list of essential slang words you should know, along with their definitions and example sentences on how to use them correctly.
1. Cool
Definition: Something that is awesome, impressive, or fashionable.
Example: "That new restaurant downtown is really cool."
This is one of the most common slang words and can be used to describe anything that you find exciting or good.
2. Bummer
Definition: A disappointment or something that makes you feel bad.
Example: "It’s such a bummer that the concert got canceled."
You can use “bummer” when talking about something that didn’t go as planned or something unfortunate happened.
3. Hang out
Definition: To spend time with someone, usually in a relaxed or informal way.
Example: "Do you want to hang out this weekend?"
This is a casual way to ask someone to spend time together, whether it's at home, at a café, or at a friend’s house.
4. Crash
Definition: To fall asleep suddenly, usually because you are very tired; can also mean to attend an event uninvited.
Example: "I was so tired after work, I crashed on the couch."
Here, “crash” refers to falling asleep quickly due to exhaustion. In a different context, you might hear: "Let’s crash that party tonight!" which means to go to a party uninvited.
5. Awesome
Definition: Something that is extremely good or impressive.
Example: "The view from the mountain was awesome!"
“Awesome” is used to describe something that really stands out in a positive way.
6. No biggie
Definition: No problem or it’s not a big deal.
Example:
"Sorry I’m late!"
"No biggie, we haven’t started yet."
Use “no biggie” to tell someone that something isn’t a big problem or concern.
7. Chill
Definition: To relax or take it easy; can also describe a relaxed person.
Example: "Let’s just chill and watch a movie tonight."
This word is often used when you want to suggest a relaxed activity or to describe someone who is easy-going:
"He’s a really chill guy."
8. Grub
Definition: Slang for food.
Example: "I’m starving! Let’s get some grub."
“Grub” is an informal way to refer to a meal or food in general.
9. Buck
Definition: A slang term for one dollar.
Example: "This coffee only costs two bucks."
“Buck” is commonly used to refer to dollars in casual conversations.
10. Lit
Definition: Used to describe something that is exciting, fun, or amazing.
Example: "That party last night was lit!"
“Lit” is a newer slang term that is especially popular among younger people to describe an event or situation that was lively or fun.
American English Language School’s ESL Program
At American English Language School, we recognize the importance of learning not just formal English, but also the informal language that makes everyday conversations smoother and more engaging. Our ESL (English as a Second Language) program is designed to help students not only improve their grammar, speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills but also gain a deeper understanding of English used in real-life situations. In small classes of no more than 8 students, our experienced instructors offer personalized lessons to help you confidently use English in both academic and social settings. Our program integrates the study of idioms, slang, and conversational English to prepare students for real-world communication in the U.S.
Tagged: ESL Class Near Me, ESL Class in Los Angeles, ESL School in Los Angeles
Published on October 12, 2024
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