What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
colloquial
Example
In colloquial English, people often say 'gonna' instead of 'going to'. [colloquial: adjective]
Example
He spoke in a colloquial manner, using slang words and expressions. [colloquially: adverb]
slangy
Example
The teenagers used a lot of slangy words that I didn't understand. [slangy: adjective]
Example
She has a slangy way of speaking that makes her sound cool. [slangily: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Colloquial is more commonly used than slangy in everyday language. Colloquial language is widely recognized and understood by a general audience, while slangy language may be more specific to certain groups or subcultures.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between colloquial and slangy?
While colloquial language is considered less formal but still acceptable in many situations, slangy language is often seen as more informal and may not be appropriate in professional or academic settings.
