ELEMENTS OF LANGUAGE--IDIOMS, DIALECT, and SLANG

Pulling a rabbit out of a hat, LOL, out yonder, dropping like flies, IMHO, ain't, close but no cigar, BRB, yo, hit the hay, L8 4 SKOOL... In making sense of the language around us we have to distinguish between the following:

An expression whose meaning cannot be derived from the literal sense, but rather it refers to a figurative meaning known though common experience, use. Example: TROY: "If my brother didn't have that metal plate in his head...I wouldn't have a pot to piss in" (28). Without Gabriel's disability check, Troy and his family would be living in INDIGENCE (poverty). Examples: More than you'll want available here.

A branch of language found within particular groups, such as speakers in specific geographical areas, ethnicities, or even class. Example: CORY: "I don't see why Mama want a fence around the yard noways" (61). Non-standard verb and adverb usage reflected in Wilson's characters. When you order a sugary, flavored carbonated drink, what term do you use: pop, soda, coke? Take a look at how different regions in the USA order their drinks.

Informal, nonstandard vocabulary, references Example: LYONS: "Stick with Uncle Sam and retire early" (94). Uncle Sam is slang for the US Federal Government, who provides full retirement benefits after twenty years of service. Would a gamer be pleased to get "PWN3d"?

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