Language is a wonderfully fluid thing, constantly evolving and adapting. One fascinating aspect of this evolution is the use of colloquialisms – the casual, everyday language we all use. But what exactly are colloquialisms, and why do writers use them? Let’s explore this interesting literary device.
What is a Colloquialism?
At its simplest, a colloquialism is a word, phrase, or pronunciation that is informal and specific to a particular region or group of people. Think of it as the way people actually talk, as opposed to the more formal, polished language you might find in textbooks or official documents. It’s the difference between saying “I am going to eat” and “I’m gonna grab a bite.”
Colloquialism Definition
A formal definition of colloquialism is a construction or expression of language that is characteristic of ordinary or familiar conversation rather than formal speech or writing. They add color, authenticity, and a sense of realism to writing.
Simple Colloquialism Examples
Here are a few quick examples to illustrate the point:
- Instead of “I will,” you might say “I’ma.”
- Instead of “you all,” you might say “y’all.”
- Instead of “are you going to,” you might say “gonna.”
- Instead of “did not,” you might say “didn’t.”
These are all examples of how we shorten words and use contractions in everyday speech, making our language more relaxed and natural.
Why Use Colloquialisms in Writing?
While formal writing often discourages colloquialisms, skilled writers can use them intentionally to achieve various effects. Here’s how:
Creating Realistic Dialogue
Perhaps the most common use of colloquialisms is to make dialogue sound natural and authentic. Characters shouldn’t always speak in perfect, grammatically correct sentences. Using colloquialisms can help them sound like real people.
Example:
“Well, I reckon that was a pretty good show,” said Old Man Hemlock, adjusting his cap.
The phrase “I reckon” is a colloquialism common in certain regions, immediately giving the character a distinct voice and background.
Establishing Setting and Character
Colloquialisms can be highly regional. A character who says “wicked” to mean “good” is likely from New England. Similarly, using phrases like “fixin’ to” indicates a Southern origin. This helps establish the setting and background of your characters.
Example:
“I’m just headin’ over yonder to grab a pop,” she said with a drawl.
The use of “yonder” and the Southern drawl quickly paint a picture of the character’s location and upbringing.
Developing Character Voice
Each character should have a unique voice, and colloquialisms can be a powerful tool for achieving this. A sophisticated, well-educated character might use more formal language, while a streetwise character might use slang and colloquialisms.
Example:
“Look, I ain’t gonna lie, this situation is a mess,” said the detective, leaning back in his chair.
The use of “ain’t” and the casual phrasing establish the detective as a down-to-earth, no-nonsense character.
Creating a Specific Tone or Mood
Colloquialisms can also contribute to the overall tone or mood of a piece of writing. A lighthearted, humorous story might be filled with slang and colloquialisms, while a more serious work might use them sparingly.
Examples of Common Colloquialisms
Let’s look at a wider range of examples, categorized for clarity:
Regional Colloquialisms
| Colloquialism | Meaning | Region |
| Y’all | You all | Southern United States |
| Bubbler | Water fountain | Wisconsin |
| Pop | Soda | Midwest |
| Hunkered down | To take shelter | New England |
Everyday Colloquialisms
- Gonna: Going to
- Wanna: Want to
- Kinda: Kind of
- Sorta: Sort of
- Gotcha: I understand
- Hang out: Spend time with someone casually
- Chill: Relax
Slang and Informal Expressions
- No cap: No lie, truly
- Lit: Exciting, excellent
- Salty: Bitter, upset
- Ghosting: Suddenly ending all communication with someone
- FOMO: Fear of missing out
Avoiding Misuse of Colloquialisms
While colloquialisms can be effective, it’s important to use them carefully. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Know Your Audience
Consider who you’re writing for. Colloquialisms that are common in one region or social group might be unfamiliar to others.
Don’t Overdo It
Too many colloquialisms can make your writing feel forced or unnatural. Use them sparingly and strategically.
Ensure Authenticity
If you’re using regional or cultural colloquialisms, make sure you understand their meaning and usage. Avoid using them in a way that is insensitive or offensive.
Consider Timelessness
Slang changes rapidly. What’s “cool” today might be outdated tomorrow. Be cautious about using slang that might not be understood by readers in the future.
Colloquialism vs. Other Literary Devices
It’s easy to confuse colloquialism with other literary devices. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Colloquialism vs. Slang
Slang is a type of colloquialism, but it’s more temporary and often associated with specific subcultures. Colloquialisms are broader and more widely accepted.
Colloquialism vs. Jargon
Jargon is specialized language used by a particular profession or group. Colloquialisms are everyday language used by the general public.
Colloquialism vs. Idiom
An idiom is a phrase whose meaning is different from the literal meaning of the words. While idioms can be colloquial, not all colloquialisms are idioms.
For example, “raining cats and dogs” is an idiom, while “gonna” is a colloquialism.
In conclusion, colloquialisms are a powerful tool for writers who want to create realistic, engaging, and authentic writing. By understanding the nuances of this literary device, you can add depth, color, and personality to your work. So, go ahead, don’t be afraid to let your characters talk like real people!