INTRODUCTION
Rationale
English is the official language in 44 countries and serves as a crucial medium in business, politics, and science, leading to a global surge in English learners However, non-native speakers often struggle with understanding slang, particularly when conversing with native speakers This challenge arises from encountering unfamiliar words that are not found in standard dictionaries To aid English learners in comprehending native conversations, this article focuses on the study of slang, specifically rhyming slang, which is prevalent in the slang lexicon.
Aims of the study
As society evolves, the English language continuously grows and transforms, with English rhyming slang being a notable example of this change Originally rooted in street culture, rhyming slang has now emerged as a global variant of English, widely utilized in everyday life, communication, film, and literature This study seeks to explore the significance and impact of this linguistic phenomenon.
- Giving the denifition of rhyming slang
- Outlining the different kinds of rhyming slang
- Surveying about the use of rhyming slang in three situations: at home, at school and at the party
- Comparing the similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese rhyming slang.
Scope of the study
IV Method of the study
To effectively highlight the similarities and differences in the use of rhyming slang between two languages, comparison emerges as the most effective approach This comparative analysis facilitates clearer communication in English Therefore, I have opted for the contrastive analysis method in my study.
Besides, this study is carried out by gathering, analyzing the reference materials and investigating some people using rhyming slang at school, at home and at the party
V Comments on the survey questionnaires
A survey was conducted with a total of one hundred participants, comprising fifty Americans and fifty Vietnamese individuals The respondents were divided into two groups: the first group, consisting of Vietnamese participants from Northern Vietnam, completed the questionnaire in Vietnamese, while the second group, consisting of native English speakers, answered the questionnaire in English Collecting demographic information about the informants was essential for data analysis, prompting participants to provide specific parameters.
Below is the table which show the number of informants with their status parameters
Table 1: Distribution of informants with their status parameters
The survey questionnaire aims to explore the use of rhyming slang in communication between Vietnamese and American speakers It focuses on three specific situations and the corresponding utterances of rhyming slang The questionnaire is divided into two parts to facilitate a comprehensive analysis of the findings.
- Part 1 is designed for general information about the informants
- Part 2 is designed for American and Vietnamese people to find out how they use rhyming slang in the following situations:
This study explores the usage of rhyming slang in three specific contexts: at school, at home, and at parties A total of one hundred completed questionnaires, equally divided between Vietnamese and English speakers, were analyzed to assess how frequently individuals employ rhyming slang in these settings The research aims to understand the dynamics of rhyming slang in daily communication among peers, family, and friends.
- The informants‟ acquaintants (older and younger)
- The informants‟ strangers (older and younger)
The two groups of informants were requested to write exactly how often they use rhyming slang to communicate in each of situations
The level of using rhyming slang of
American often sometimes rarely never
Situation 1 old teacher x young teacher x student x
Situation 2 grand-parents x parents x children x
Table 2: The frequency of using rhyming slang of American
The level of using rhyming slang of
Vietnamese often sometimes rarely never
Situation1 old teacher x young teacher x student x
Situation 2 Grand-parents x parents x children x
Table 3: The frequency of rhyming slang of Vietnamese
VI Design of the study
This study consists of three parts:
Part I is the “Introduction” which introduce Rationale, Aim,Scope,
Method and the Design of the study
Part II is the “Development” which is divided into three main chapters Chapter I is the “Theoretical background” providing the definitions, origin, classifications
Chapter II is the “English and Vietnames rhyming slang” surveying the use of English and Vietnamese rhyming slang between the older and the younger persons
Chapter III is the “English rhyming slang in comparision with Vietnamese rhyming slang” comparing the similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese rhyming slang
Part III is the “Conclusion” which summazies the main points of the study.
Comments on the survey questionnaire
A survey was conducted with a sample of 100 participants, comprising 50 Americans and 50 Vietnamese individuals The participants were divided into two groups: the first group, consisting of Vietnamese respondents from Northern Vietnam, completed the questionnaire in Vietnamese, while the second group, made up of native English speakers, answered the questionnaire in English Collecting demographic information from the informants was essential for data analysis, and they were asked to provide specific parameters for this purpose.
Below is the table which show the number of informants with their status parameters
Table 1: Distribution of informants with their status parameters
The survey questionnaire aims to explore the use of rhyming slang in communication among Vietnamese and Americans, focusing on three specific situations and utterances It consists of two main parts to gather comprehensive insights into this linguistic phenomenon.
- Part 1 is designed for general information about the informants
- Part 2 is designed for American and Vietnamese people to find out how they use rhyming slang in the following situations:
The study investigates the use of rhyming slang in three specific situations: at school, at home, and at parties A total of 100 completed questionnaires, with 50 in Vietnamese and 50 in English, were analyzed to assess how frequently individuals employ rhyming slang in these contexts The findings reveal insights into the social dynamics and linguistic preferences of participants when engaging in daily speech activities with their communicating partners.
- The informants‟ acquaintants (older and younger)
- The informants‟ strangers (older and younger)
The two groups of informants were requested to write exactly how often they use rhyming slang to communicate in each of situations
The level of using rhyming slang of
American often sometimes rarely never
Situation 1 old teacher x young teacher x student x
Situation 2 grand-parents x parents x children x
Table 2: The frequency of using rhyming slang of American
The level of using rhyming slang of
Vietnamese often sometimes rarely never
Situation1 old teacher x young teacher x student x
Situation 2 Grand-parents x parents x children x
Table 3: The frequency of rhyming slang of Vietnamese
Design of the study
This study consists of three parts:
Part I is the “Introduction” which introduce Rationale, Aim,Scope,
Method and the Design of the study
Part II is the “Development” which is divided into three main chapters Chapter I is the “Theoretical background” providing the definitions, origin, classifications
Chapter II is the “English and Vietnames rhyming slang” surveying the use of English and Vietnamese rhyming slang between the older and the younger persons
Chapter III is the “English rhyming slang in comparision with Vietnamese rhyming slang” comparing the similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese rhyming slang
Part III is the “Conclusion” which summazies the main points of the study.
Theoretical background
Definitions
Slang is defined as a form of very informal language, often referred to as "the language of sub-cultures" or "the language of the street," according to The Oxford English Dictionary Characterized by its vivid and colorful expressions, slang occupies a unique space between colloquial language and vulgarity.
SEX nookey, the other, crumpet
Slang is defined as the most informal language, often characterized by expressions that may seem grammatically imperfect, yet serve to unify a group This form of language evolves rapidly in English For example, the phrase "use your loaf of bread" is a colloquial way of saying "use your head."
In addtion, Bethany.K.Dumas and Jonathan Lighter (1978:95) define,
Slang refers to informal words and expressions that are not standard in a particular language or dialect It is often specific to certain regions or subcultures While slang can originate in niche groups, it sometimes spreads beyond its initial context, leading to broader usage Over time, certain slang terms may become widely accepted and transition into standard language, while new, lesser-known terms may emerge in their place.
Slang originates from the need for specific groups or subcultures to communicate effectively among themselves, rooted in shared experiences, interests, and identities This form of language also serves to distinguish these groups from others and the larger society, often incorporating unconventional or taboo expressions While slang can foster a sense of community and enhance communication among members, it can also create divisions and hostility towards outsiders, highlighting both its positive and negative implications for human relationships throughout history.
Apples = apples and pears = stairs
Dog = dog and bone = telephone
Frog = frog and toad = road
The English Oxford Dictionary (2000:489) defines,” Jargon is specialized
Listening: An elicitive listening process whereby one communicator seeks to empathetically understand, and confirm understanding, of the other
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) encompasses a diverse range of innovative techniques designed to manage and resolve disputes outside the traditional court system Common ADR methods include negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and early neutral evaluation, among others These creative collaboration options aim to prevent disputes and facilitate resolution in a less adversarial manner As the field evolves, new strategies and forms of ADR are continually being developed and implemented across various forums.
Arbitration is a method where conflicting parties submit their disputes to a mutually agreed authority for resolution Typically, the parties must adhere to the Arbitrator's ruling According to the Commercial Arbitration Act, appeals against these decisions are only permissible on matters of law.
Analysis in negotiation involves a thorough examination by the involved parties or a third-party intervener to critically assess historical dynamics, environmental factors, paradigms, and the underlying interests that contributed to the dispute This process aims to identify key issues and potential areas for resolution, facilitating a deeper understanding of the conflict and guiding effective negotiation strategies.
Assertion: assertiveness The process by which one makes direct 'I' statements about one's own feelings, thoughts and wishes while respecting
WATNA, or Worst Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement, complements the concept of BATNA by helping parties assess the potential downsides of not reaching an agreement While BATNA highlights the best possible outcome if negotiations fail, WATNA focuses on the least favorable scenario, providing insight into the risks involved Understanding both BATNA and WATNA equips negotiators with the knowledge to make informed decisions, ensuring they are aware of both their best and worst alternatives during discussions For instance, in salary negotiations, knowing your worst-case scenario, such as remaining in a job with stagnant pay, can strengthen your position when advocating for a raise.
Understanding the difference between slang and jargon is crucial Jargon refers to the specialized vocabulary used within a specific profession, which may be unfamiliar to outsiders While both slang and jargon can be difficult for non-members to understand, jargon is not designed to exclude; instead, it focuses on the technical details and nuances relevant to a particular field.
Jargon differs from slang as it serves as a specialized shorthand used within specific groups to efficiently convey commonly discussed ideas.
For instand, jargon related to the computer RAM, Hard Disk Drive, CPU, Graphics Card and etc
Rhyming slang in the Collins English Dictionary (2000: 84) is defined as,
“slang in which a word is replaced by another word or phrase that rhymes with it.”; for example, apples and pears: stairs
Rhyming slang, as described by Chris Roberts (2006), is a unique form of slang that may confuse those unfamiliar with it An example includes using "Sherman" to refer to an American, derived from "Sherman tank," which rhymes with "Yank." Daniel Fergus (2001) further explains that rhyming slang phrases are created by substituting a word with a rhyming expression, such as using "butcher's hook" for "look." Often, the rhyming part is dropped, so it's common to hear Londoners simply say "butcher's" instead of the full phrase.
Barclays Bank : Wank (to masturbate)
Bristol City or pluralised, bristols :Titty (breasts)
Dutch (for Duchess of Fife): Wife
Pony and trap :Crap (both to defecate and of poor quality)
Pork pies or porkies : Lies
Tom Tit :shit (both to defecate and of poor quality)
The origins
II.1.The origin of English slang
B Winona (2007) in “The history of slang” refers, During the Middle
In the past, standardized language was scarce, leading to various dialects and pronunciations that represented early forms of slang, though dialects themselves are distinct from slang By the sixteenth century, English Criminal Cant emerged as a specialized language used by criminals and cheats Initially not regarded as slang due to its unique development, by the eighteenth century, English Criminal Cant had transformed into a recognized form of slang.
In the mid-1600s, slang emerged in popular plays by writers like Richard Brome and continued to evolve in poems and songs throughout the eighteenth century Influenced by cultural differences in America, the usage of English slang expanded significantly during this period Often linked to criminals or foreigners, slang frequently addressed taboo subjects, including human anatomy and significant themes such as the American Civil War and the abolitionist movement.
II.2 The origin of rhyming slang
The exact origin of rhyming slang remains unclear, as it exists in various languages; however, it is most closely associated with Cockney speech from London's East End Many rhyming slang words and phrases originated in Cockney and quickly gained popularity across Britain Subsequently, these expressions were exported from London to different parts of the world.
Rhyming slang is a unique linguistic style where a word is substituted with a rhyming phrase, usually consisting of two words, such as "apples and pears" for stairs Often, the second word is omitted, making it less clear to those unfamiliar with the slang, as in "I'm going up the apples." An example includes using "Sherman" to refer to an American, derived from "Sherman tank," which rhymes with Yank.
The precise origins of rhyming slang remain uncertain, as it appears in various languages; however, it is most closely linked to Cockney dialect from London's East End.
John Camden Hotten in his 1859 Dictionary of Modern Slang, Cant and Vulgar
Words states that (English) rhyming slang originated in the 1840s with costermongers [2]
It remains a matter of speculation as to whether rhyming slang was a linguistic accident, a game, or a cryptolect developed intentionally to confuse non-locals
The use of a secret language may have served to strengthen community bonds, enabling vendors to communicate discreetly in the marketplace and potentially engage in collusion without customers being aware Additionally, this language could have been employed by criminals, such as thieves, to obfuscate their activities and confuse law enforcement.
The rise of rhyming slang has led to many traditional phrases becoming commonly used in Britain A notable example is "to have a butcher's," which translates to "to have a look."
"butcher's hook" Examples of this kind are often now used without awareness of their origins Many English speakers are oblivious of the fact that the term
The phrase "use your loaf," which means to use your head, originates from the term "loaf of bread." This concept of rhyming slang is also found in other regions, such as the United States, where "brass tacks" is believed to rhyme with "the facts," and "blow a raspberry," which likely comes from "raspberry tart" as a rhyme for fart In Australia, the slang term "pommy," commonly used to refer to an English person, is thought to have roots in rhyming slang for immigrant.
Some words are much less taboo than their etymology would suggest Some popular terms have their origins in obscenity, like "berk" (often used to mean
"foolish person") and "cobblers" (often used to mean "what you just said is rubbish"), are actually from Berkeley Hunt, meaning "cunt," and "cobbler's awls", meaning "balls", respectively
Non-native speakers should exercise caution when using rhyming slang to blend in, as its usage is often exaggerated Originally designed to obscure speech from outsiders, terms that become widely recognized tend to lose their novelty quickly, leading to a constant evolution of the slang While 'Cockney' rhyming slang typically refers to phrases from London's East End, similar expressions can be found in other regions of the UK, such as the East Midlands, where local accents create unique rhyming phrases like "Derby Road" for "cold," which are not possible in other dialects.
Classifications
III.1 Classification of English slang
There are many ways to classify English slang
In term of the meaning of words, slang can be divided into many kinds: violence, crime, drugs, medical, sport, youth…etc
For example: www.urbandictionary.com refers, some slang words which the modern teenagers often use called slang youth are:
Sup, whats goin down: parents
In term of development history of slang, The Oxford Dictionary of Moder Slang indentifies three types of slang:
The term 'slang' originated in the mid-eighteenth century, referring to the unique vocabulary utilized by groups considered to have low or disreputable status, such as the thieves' cant of earlier times Today, this form of language continues to flourish within the lexicon of the underworld, street gangs, and drug trafficking.
By the mid-eighteenth century, the term 'slang' expanded to encompass the unique vocabulary and expressions associated with specific professions, such as printers' slang and costermongers' slang.
Slang serves as a unique vocabulary that unites members of a subculture or social group, fostering a sense of individuality and distinction from the broader community.
In the early 19th century, the term 'slang' evolved to refer broadly to a type of highly colloquial language that is viewed as inferior to standard educated speech, encompassing both newly coined words and existing words used in unique, specialized ways.
Today slang covers all three of these areas: not all colloquial or informal vocabulary is slang, but all slang is colloquial or informal
However, in this reseach paper, I will classify English slang in term of the word- form with four types: rhyming, backwards, nadsat and polari slang
Rhyming slang, as defined by www.urbandictionary.com, is a distinctive and sophisticated linguistic code utilized by the Cockney speech community, designed primarily for the purpose of disguise.
It uses witty and ingenious coded formulas to refer to objects of affection and hostility as well as taboo topics Familiar examples are trouble and strife for
The principle of this code involves substituting a word or phrase that rhymes with the intended term, such as using "wife" for "lie" and "pork pie" for "lie." While there may be no direct logical link between the formula and the coded word, a sense of irony frequently emerges in these playful substitutions.
Burke and Wills Dills Don't be a Burke
Butchers Crook or look From butcher‟s hook
Charlie Woman From Charlie Wheeler Wheeler (pronounced wheelah) rhymes with sheila
Ducks and drakes The shakes
Gay and hearty Party Probably not very common nowadays because of the changed
III.1.2.Backwards slang (Back slang):
Asker, UK answer (2006) definites, backwards slang is a form of slang where words are reversed English backwards slang tends to reverse words letter by letter
(http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?termckwards%20slang)
P.Ninja (2002) states, Nasad is a set of slang terms invented by Anthony
In his 1962 novel *A Clockwork Orange*, Anthony Burgess introduces a unique "slang of the future," known as Nadsat, which incorporates a diverse array of linguistic influences The vocabulary primarily draws from Russian, including numerous words stemming from inaccurate transliterations Additionally, the slang features elements from Germanic and Romance languages, abbreviations of English terms, and playful school-boy vernacular, as well as Cockney rhyming slang Notably, "Nadsat" itself is derived from a Russian suffix that denotes numbers 11 to 19.
(http://soomka.com/nadsat.html)
Polari, a British gay slang with origins in the 18th century underworld, gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s It is an eclectic mix of various slangs and dialects common in London, incorporating elements of Cockney rhyming slang, Romany, back slang, Italian, theatre language, and criminal vernacular However, Polari has largely faded from use today Notable terms include "trade" for sex, "bungary" for pub, and "chicken" for a young boy.
III.2 Classification of Rhyming slang
Cockney rhyming slang is the most well-known form of English rhyming slang, as noted by simple.wikipedia.org With the rise of the Internet, a variety of new slang expressions have emerged, reflecting the evolving nature of language.
ROTFL/ROFL - Rolling on the floor laughing
LMAO - Laughing my ass off
The internet frequently employs acronyms to create new slang expressions, while also utilizing rhymes As a result, rhyming slang is categorized into two distinct types: Cockney rhyming slang and Internet rhyming slang.
Cockney rhyming slang, originating in the East End of London, is a unique form of English slang that has gained popularity through film, music, and literature Notably, Anthony Burgess incorporated this playful language into the fictional "Nadsat" dialect in his renowned novel, A Clockwork Orange The traditional structure of Cockney rhyming slang involves pairing two words in a phrase, where the first word substitutes for a word that rhymes with the second; for example, "boat" signifies "face" from the phrase "boat race," while "plates" refers to "feet" (as in "plates of meat") and "bread" denotes "money" (from "bread and honey").
Cockney rhyming slang is not a language but a collection of phrases used
Cockney typically describes the working-class population of London, especially those from the East End A genuine Cockney is defined as an individual born within the sound range of the Bow Bells, which are the bells of St Mary le Bow church located in Cheapside.
The process involves selecting a two or three-word phrase that rhymes with a word you wish to conceal, replacing the hidden word with the first word of the chosen phrase For instance, the phrase "apples and pears" is used to refer to stairs; therefore, instead of saying, "I'm walking up the stairs," one would say, "I'm walking up the apples."
Example: Some Cockney Rhyming slang for part of body
Feet Plates of meat Plates
Arms Chalk Farms Chalk Farms
Head Loaf of bread Loaf
Face Boat race Boat race
Mouth North and south North and south
Rhyming slang, a unique and often perplexing form of expression, originated in the East End of London, specifically within the Cockney community This area, historically recognized as being within earshot of the Bow bells from St Mary Le Bow church, has given rise to this intriguing linguistic phenomenon that is now prevalent across the English-speaking world.
In the 1700s, the term "Cockney" was originally used by rural residents to describe town dwellers perceived as ignorant of traditional customs Over time, it evolved to refer specifically to working-class Londoners and has shed its negative connotations Today, while the definition of a Cockney has changed, many outsiders still use the term to refer to anyone from London.
English and Vietnamese rhyming slang in survey
English rhyming slang
Rhyming slang is one of the most popular types of slang It is a word replaced by another word or phrase that rhymes with it For example,
Bottle and stopper :copper (police officer)
Eg: Look out, here come the bottles!
Britney Spears: ears; beers; tears
Eg: Tuck your hair behind your Britneys
Rhyming slang has become a prevalent form of communication in various settings, including schools, homes, and parties This study specifically examines the frequency of rhyming slang usage among individuals of different ages and social relationships in these three environments.
I.2.1 The use of English rhyming slang at school
Rhyming slang is rapidly evolving within school environments, primarily among students and young teachers Its usage varies significantly across different locations and social groups While older teachers tend to refrain from using rhyming slang in the classroom, many students frequently employ it in conversations with their peers and educators.
Hereis an example it‟s a conversation in the class: tell him why they did not hand in their homework
Mr Mann: So Pete, this is most unlike you Where's your homework?
Pete: (mumbling) Sorry Peter Pan, I was round at me bookend's last night, and forget to take my dirty looks
Mr Mann: I beg your pardon?
Sarah: Yeah, I couldn't do mine either I was with ham an' cheese, at her rat an' mouse I used her motorised scooter but her Olympic sprinter wasn't working
In this conversation, the teacher refrains from using rhyming slang when communicating with his students However, students Peter and Sarah frequently employ rhyming slang expressions to justify their failure to submit their homework.
In class, students frequently engage in conversations that incorporate rhyming slang expressions, allowing them to communicate without the teacher's comprehension.
For examples about some rhyming slang expressions are often used at school
Adam and Eve : Believe - Would you Adam and Eve it?
Mince Pies : Eyes - What beautiful minces
Oxford Scholar : Dollar - Could you lend me an Oxford?
Pen and Ink : Stink - Pooh! It pens a bit in here
Rabbit and Pork : Talk - I don't know what she's rabbiting about.
Butcher's hook : look - Let's have a butchers at that magazine Dickie bird : word - I haven't heard a dicky bird about it
The data reveals that 70% of students use rhyming slang in their daily communication at school, in contrast to only 30% of young teachers and 15% of older teachers who employ this linguistic style.
People The numbers of people using rhyming slang at school (%)
Rhyming slang expressions in schools are vibrant and colorful, but there are notable differences between how students and teachers use them Teachers tend to favor popular, poetic rhyming slang, while students often opt for more vulgar variations Additionally, students frequently innovate by creating new rhyming slang that differs from conventional adult expressions.
English Rhyming slang is often used by teachers
Rhyming slang is often used by students
Face Boat race Chevy Chase
Hair Barnet fair Tony Bair
Beer Amber feerd Briney Spears
Website Wind and kite Kryptonite
Cunt Berkshire cunt James Blunt
I.2.2 The use of English rhyming slang at home
Rhyming slang is a popular form of communication in daily life, often used by family members when conversing with one another For instance, phrases like "mutt'n'jeff" meaning "deaf" and "porkies" referring to "lies" are commonly heard, as in "You will have to speak up, he's a bit mutton" or "Are you telling porkies?" However, the frequency of rhyming slang usage at home varies among family members, as indicated by survey data presented in the accompanying table.
People The numbers of people using rhyming slang at home (%)
As people age, their use of rhyming slang diminishes significantly Modern variations, such as "Briney Speak" for beer or "kung fu fighter" for lighter, are predominantly utilized by children, while older generations tend to rely on traditional phrases like "butcher's hook" for look or "china plate" for mate, albeit less frequently Consequently, children often use popular rhyming slang to converse with their parents and grandparents, but prefer modern rhyming when communicating with siblings to keep their discussions private from adults.
I.2.3 The use of English rhyming slang at the party
Nowadays, rhyming slang is in popular use throughout the English speaking population with numerous new examples popping up in everyday
Understanding the speech of members from different groups can be challenging, which is why people often resort to using rhyming slang with familiar acquaintances rather than strangers in casual settings, such as parties In a recent survey, I asked attendees if they used rhyming slang when conversing with acquaintances versus strangers, and the responses highlighted this preference for familiar communication styles.
People The numbers of people using rhyming slang at the party (%)
At a recent party, it was observed that 15% of older attendees used rhyming slang, compared to 45% of younger participants Common themes for using rhyming slang included love, friendship, clothing, food, and drinks Despite discussing similar topics, the expressions varied significantly between age groups; older individuals tended to use traditional or well-known rhyming slang, while younger attendees favored contemporary variations A notable example of this linguistic style is found in party greetings.
English The rhyming slang used by the olders
The rhyming slang used by the youngers
What„s up? Wassup Sup yes yeah yup
Americans of all ages frequently use slang alongside more formal language, with younger individuals particularly favoring rhyming slang For instance, terms like "bad egg" are preferred over "bad person," and the word "cool" serves as a prime example of this linguistic trend.
Slang is a dynamic and modern language primarily created and utilized by younger generations Each generation develops its own unique slang, serving as a linguistic mark of identity and social belonging This tendency to adopt slang reflects a natural human inclination to fit in with one's environment, making it challenging to resist Over time, slang has seamlessly integrated into American culture, often leaving individuals unaware of when these linguistic shifts began.
Over time, language evolves, and terms like "cool" may eventually fall out of use or be replaced by new trendy words, potentially featuring two "o's." The future of language is unpredictable.
Young people often use slang to gain acceptance among their peers, as it serves as a means of identifying with their social group Additionally, slang allows them to express their unique characteristics and individuality.
Older individuals often incorporate slang into their language, reflecting the expressions popular during their youth While the frequency of these slang terms may have diminished over time, they still tend to use certain phrases, influenced by younger generations around them.
Situations People The number of the persons using rhyming slang (%)
Vietnamese rhyming slang
Vietnamese rhyming slang, as noted by Hoahoctro.com, serves as an informal social communication tool rooted in local dialects and influenced by foreign languages It is characterized by sound changes and similarities, exemplified by phrases like "nhỏ như con thỏ" (small) and "độc như con tuần lộc" (cruel) This unique linguistic form is categorized into four distinct types.
Utilizing words or phrases that share similar sounds with the intended word can enhance communication For instance, "a kay" can be substituted with "cay" to express getting out of temper, while "cá kiếm" can be replaced with "kiếm" to signify taking advantage Additionally, "ca ma run" can be used in place of "run" to convey a sense of fear This technique not only aids in clarity but also enriches language expression.
-Using words or phrase with the change of the sound as baby talk; for example, xiền: tiền (money), tình iu: tình yêu (love)…
-Using the same of the sound as the number: 2: Hi: chào, 3: ba, 8: tám…
-Making new words or phrase containing the same of sounds to emphasize; for example, ghét như con bọ chét (hate), ngất ngây con gà tây (happy)…
Vietnamese rhyming slang is rapidly evolving among the youth today This study focuses on its usage in three key contexts: at school, at home, and during parties.
II.2.1 The use of Vietnamese rhyming slang at school:
Rhyming slang is commonly used in schools, allowing young people to express their personalities and communicate comfortably with friends However, this form of slang often shocks older generations, leading to restrictions on its use in formal settings, particularly between students and older teachers in Vietnam In contrast, younger teachers may permit the use of popular slang in informal interactions A recent survey at HongBang High School illustrates the percentage of students using rhyming slang.
People The numbers of persons using rhyming slang (%) old teacher 0 young teacher 10 student 36
Vietnamese students frequently use a variety of rhyming slang words, which include both colloquial and vulgar terms Popular examples are "hi-fi" meaning "gay," "xiền" for "money," and "chập cheng" to describe someone as "half mad." Additionally, more vivid expressions like "ngất trên cành quất" signify "surprise," while "lên nóc tủ ăn hoa quả - chết" translates to "die." These examples illustrate the creative and lively nature of rhyming slang commonly heard in school settings.
Leng keng :nghĩa là dở hơi ,thần kinh ( half mad)
Dở hơi tập bơi( say stupid things)
Cá chép : chép(write but not understand)
II.2.2 The use of Vietnamese rhyming slang at home
In Vietnamese families, traditional culture dictates that children refrain from using rhyming slang when communicating with their parents and grandparents, as it is seen as disrespectful Consequently, Vietnamese children typically reserve rhyming slang for conversations with their siblings Furthermore, parents and grandparents avoid using slang when speaking to their children or other family members, fearing that its use at home may negatively influence the children's language development The table below provides detailed percentages of rhyming slang usage within the household.
People The number of persons using rhyming slang at home (%)
There are many rhyming slang expressions used by children at home Most of them are colouful and vivid.For example:
Chán như con gián: chán (bored)
Ky bo: keo kiệt (stingy)
II.2.3 The use of Vietnamese rhyming slang at the party
Vietnamese rhyming slang is more and more developed It is used widely in daily communication especially at the young‟s party.This is the result of the survey
Person The numbers of persons using rhyming slang (%)
At the party, the use of rhyming slang varied significantly between age groups, with 0% of older attendees employing it compared to 28% of younger participants The younger crowd frequently used a range of rhyming slang expressions, which included both vivid and vulgar language.
Buôn dưa lê : buôn chuyện
In Vietnam, the use of slang, particularly rhyming slang, is increasingly popular among the youth, serving as a means for them to express their individuality and make everyday conversations more vivid and colorful Surveys indicate that students, young teachers, and children enjoy incorporating rhyming slang into their communication However, traditional cultural values still hold significant sway in Vietnamese society, with many older individuals believing that slang undermines the clarity of the Vietnamese language, as they themselves do not use it and disapprove of its use by younger generations.
Situations People The number of persons using Vietnamese rhyming slang (%)
At school old teacher 0 young teacher 10 student 36
At home grand-parent 0 parent 0 children 28
At the party old acquainter 0 old stranger 0 young acquainter 50 young stranger 6
English and Vietnamese rhyming slang in comparison
Similarities
This article explores the similarities between English and Vietnamese rhyming slang, highlighting key aspects of both languages By examining their common features, we can gain a deeper understanding of how these two distinct linguistic traditions intersect.
Besides, the similarities are induced from the definitions, characteristics of both English and Vietnamese rhyming slang, the use of them also has many similarities
English and Vietnamese rhyming slang are among the most popular forms of informal language in their respective cultures Both involve replacing words with phrases that rhyme, creating a unique and playful linguistic style Often associated with street language and subcultures, these slangs are characterized by their vivid, colorful, and sometimes vulgar expressions.
English English rhyming slang Vietnamese rhyming slang
Tell lies Porkies pies nói dóc
Stupid Numty fish chuối cả nải
Besides, English rhyming slang as well as Vietnamese rhyming slang is constantly growing, changing and developing with the huge number of examples
Beer, Rise and shine: Wine
Certain slang words and expressions can transcend their original contexts, eventually becoming widely accepted in standard language For instance, phrases like "Adam and Eve" meaning "believe" and "alligator" signifying "later" illustrate how slang can evolve and integrate into everyday communication.
,Andy Cain :Rain ,Apple pie: Sky, Auntie Nellie :Belly, in Vietnamese : xù : don't pay after eating something or have debt , xạo : tell lies
Rhyming slang, prevalent among young people in both English and Vietnamese, enhances daily communication by making it more vivid, lively, and colorful, fostering a sense of community Its usage in conversations has significantly increased, reflecting its growing importance in social interactions Despite the differences in expression between the two languages, the underlying motivations for using rhyming slang remain consistent As noted by British lexicographer Eric Partridge, there are at least 15 reasons why individuals incorporate slang into their speech.
1 In sheer high spirits, by the young in heart as well as by the young in years; 'just for the fun of the thing'; in playfulness or waggishness
2 As an exercise either in wit and ingenuity or in humour (The motive behind this is usually self-display or snobbishness, emulation or responsiveness, delight in virtuosity)
3 To be 'different', to be novel
4 To be picturesque (either positively or - as in the wish to avoid insipidity - negatively)
5 To be unmistakeably arresting, even startling
6 To escape from clichés, or to be brief and concise (Actuated by impatience with existing terms.)
7 To enrich the language (This deliberateness is rare save among the well-educated, Cockneys forming the most notable exception; it is literary rather
8 To lend an air of solidity, concreteness, to the abstract; of earthiness to the idealistic; of immediacy and appositeness to the remote (In the cultured the effort is usually premeditated, while in the uncultured it is almost always unconscious when it is not rather subconscious.)
9a To lesson the sting of, or on the other hand to give additional point to, a refusal, a rejection, a recantation;
9b To reduce, perhaps also to disperse, the solemnity, the pomposity, the excessive seriousness of a conversation (or of a piece of writing);
To alleviate the harshness of death or madness, and to disguise the discomfort of deep moral failings such as treachery and ingratitude, we often seek to soften these tragedies This approach not only helps the speaker but also allows the listener to endure and continue amidst the challenges of life.
10 To speak or write down to an inferior, or to amuse a superior public; or merely to be on a colloquial level with either one's audience or one's subject matter
11 For ease of social intercourse (Not to be confused or merged with the preceding.)
12 To induce either friendliness or intimacy of a deep or a durable kind (Same remark.)
13 To show that one belongs to a certain school, trade, or profession, artistic or intellectual set, or social class; in brief, to be 'in the swim' or to establish contact
14 Hence, to show or prove that someone is not 'in the swim'
15 To be secret - not understood by those around one (Children, students, lovers, members of political secret societies, and criminals in or out of prison, innocent persons in prison, are the chief exponents.) of using rhyming slang of the Americans are higher than them of the Vietnamese informants (see the charts in the next pages) All Americans from the old to the young use rhyming slang in communication but the Vietnamese old never use it, the Vietnamese young also use less than the American young by the effections of the traditional culture and the social conceptions
Table 4: Comparision the number of the people using English rhyming with
The number of persons using rhyming slang (%) English Vietnamese
At school old teacher 15 0 young teacher 30 10 student 70 36
At home grand-parents 18 0 parents 38 0 children 65 28
At the party Acquaintants(old) 22 0
Situation 1: At the school: How often do you use rhyming slang at school?
The use of rhyming slang in comparision between Vietnamese and American
70% old teacher young teacher student
Situation 2: At home: How do you use rhyming slang at home?
The use of rhyming slang in comparision between Vietnamese and American
Situation 3 : At the party: How do you use rhyming slang at the party?
The use of rhyming slang in comparision between Vietnamese and American
70% old stranger young stranger old acquainter young acquainter
Differences
In modern language teaching, the focus has shifted from traditional grammar to prioritizing communication and communicative competence To effectively engage with native speakers, understanding slang, particularly rhyming slang, is essential This study provides insights into rhyming slang, including its definitions, origins, classifications, and examples, as well as its application in various contexts such as at school, home, and parties, along with my personal observations on its usage.
This research highlights the significant similarities and differences in American and Vietnamese rhyming slang Both languages exhibit comparable definitions, characteristics, and usage of rhyming slang, indicating a shared cultural aspect However, notable distinctions also exist between the two languages' approaches to rhyming slang.
Despite my best efforts, mistakes are inevitable in this study due to constraints in time and knowledge I look forward to future opportunities to revisit this topic for a more in-depth and engaging exploration I also welcome the support and contributions from readers to enhance the quality of this research.
CONCLUSION
In modern language teaching, the focus has shifted from traditional grammar to prioritizing communication and communicative competence To effectively engage with native speakers, understanding slang, particularly rhyming slang, is essential This study provides insights into rhyming slang through definitions, origins, classifications, and examples, showcasing its application in three contexts: at school, at home, and at parties, along with my personal observations on its usage.
This research highlights the significant similarities and differences in rhyming slang between American English and Vietnamese Both languages exhibit common characteristics and uses of rhyming slang, yet they also reveal distinct variations that set them apart.
Despite my best efforts, the constraints of time and knowledge have led to unavoidable mistakes in this study I look forward to future opportunities to revisit this topic, enhancing its depth and engagement for readers I also welcome contributions and support from all readers to help refine and improve this research.