Maybe you’re talking to an American friend or are watching an American television show when you hear the question:

 

Whatcha doin’?

…huh?

 

You’ve been studying English diligently but have never heard this phrase before. This is a type of slang.

 

Slang is informal words or phrases that are common in speech. Some slang is regional or more commonly spoken in a specific area.

 

Due to its informality, it should not be used when writing formally. However, it is beneficial to brush up on your slang, as it will help you sound more native when speaking.

 

Test your knowledge of American slang by checking out a few different words and phrases below!

 

Interjections

 

• For real?

 

A person can reply rhetorically to a shocking or surprising statement with this phrase.

 

Example: Monica had the baby yesterday!

                 For real?

 

• Ope

 

This word is similar to “whoa” or “oops” but is more popularly heard in the Midwest. When used to mean “excuse me,” Midwesterners often say “sorry” after it as well.

 

Example: Ope! Sorry, did I bump into you?

                Don’t worry; I’m okay!

 

Adjectives

 

• Hella

 

This regional slang is often heard in California and means “really,” “very,” or “a lot.” The full term is “hell of a…” but has been contracted in speaking. Some Californians think this word is not proper for children to say. They encourage them to use “hecka” instead. 

 

Example: The concert last night was hella loud! My ears hurt the next day. 

 

• Wicked

 

Another regional slang, “wicked,” can be primarily heard in the northeastern part of the United States and originated in Boston. It means awesome or great.

 

Example: The new Superman movie was wicked! It had great special effects!

 

• Janky

 

When a person describes something as “janky,” they mean that it is bad quality or does not work well.

 

Example: The paint on my car is rusted. It is so janky.

 

Phrasal Verbs

 

• to have a blast

 

When looking at this idiomatic expression, you might think about fireworks or some kind of explosive when, in reality, “to have a blast” means to have an amazing time.

 

Example: Sarah had a blast at the water park! There were many different rides to choose from.

 

• to pig out

 

This slang describes when a person is eating a lot of food, like a pig.

 

Example: I pigged out at my birthday party! I had three slices of pizza, two pieces of cake, and a soda!

 

• to screw up

 

“To screw up” means to make a severe mistake or do something wrong. This slang is not one you want to hear from your boss!

 

Example: I screwed up with my girlfriend. I forgot our anniversary!

 

Bonus!

 

• Y’all

 

“Y’all” is often heard in the southeastern states and is a friendly contraction to say, “you all” or “you guys.” More states have recently adopted this slang to speak about a group of people in less gendered terms, so you might hear it being used in some northern states as well.

 

Example: Did y’all hear the news? We are getting a snowstorm on Saturday!

 

Wherever you are in the United States, you are sure to hear some slang! Language is constantly changing as unique vocabulary is brought by new generations and different cultures, making American English fun to learn! 

 

See ya later!