What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dialect
Example
The Southern dialect of English is different from the Northern dialect. [dialect: noun]
Example
She speaks with a distinct dialect that reflects her cultural background. [dialect: adjective]
slang
Example
He used a lot of slang when he was talking to his friends. [slang: noun]
Example
That's a really cool shirt! [cool: slang adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dialect is more commonly used than slang in formal settings, such as academic or professional contexts. However, slang is more commonly used in informal settings, such as casual conversations or social media.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dialect and slang?
Dialect is generally considered more formal than slang, which is often associated with informal speech. However, both dialect and slang can be used in various levels of formality depending on the context and audience.
