The Function of Slang

I am curious what people feel the function slang serves in language at it's root... and expand to the function in society and culture as well if you wish.


This forum often has some inspired and/or interesting ideas so that's why I chose to post this here.


I've pondered the function of slang in language and the only thing I can really come up with is that it's a simplifying of a word, phrase or concept which one may not possess the vocabulary to expound on using perhaps more advanced language. In many instances, I think an individual may be familiar with a proper terminology to express themselves but I think slang is often used in very fluid conversational ways, where it may correspond with a surfaced feeling for instance, which may take the individual awhile to properly identify and think about with proper language but the immeadiate slang expression aptly explains their feelings and conveys their thoughts.

From a societal angle, I see how slang alone can create in group and out groups pretty much on it's own. Slang can function as a somewhat inclusive 'secret language' which only the in group can comprehend and it can serve to disconnect those who don't understand it forming out groups. In culture I think it serves this purpose as well, I can see that slang in hippie culture can vary from slang in computer culture can vary from slang in sports culture, etc. so again I think it can be an in/out group identifier in these instances.

 

I lived with blacks for a number of years... I think slang can be very creative and requires abstract thought to comprehend it. I believe the black community is at the forefront of reinventing language.