Morphemes, free and bound forms

2.3 Allomorphs and Slang, Jargon

A register used in situations of extreme informality is slang. Used in this type of situation, slang is characterized by an extreme form of linguistic informality. While not all informal vocabulary is automatically slanged, all slang is highly informal. In contrast to informal talk, the more general term slang implies a high degree of ungrammaticality. Particularly popular among teenagers, though not limited to this group, slang can include the use of in-group vocabulary with an in-group meaning different from its usual meaning. Such slang expressions can function as identity markers because they distinguish in-group members from members that are not part of the group. Their use expresses a desire for social distance to language users outside the group and their mainstream values.

Any speaker of any age and any educational or socioeconomic status can legitimately use slang if the appropriate speech situation is given.