I recently watched Robert Eggers’ 2019 film The Lighthouse, starring Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson. Kickass movie. As with Eggers’ other films, the script uses dialogue authentic to the time period – in this case, the 1890s – which can be difficult to follow at times. (I watched it with captions.) The trade-off is we are further immersed into Eggers’ world and the time period, particularly during some of those amazing monologues.

The stylized words and phrases used in The Lighthouse are examples of a colloquialism. A colloquialism is an informal word or phrase used in everyday conversation. The term represents a casual expression used in a word or phrase, and is often specific to a geographic region or cultural group.

Colloquialisms are common in spoken communication. They’re less common in formal language and writing, but still occur regularly enough to be classified as a literary device. Example: In the phrase “We’re gonna head over to the grocery store,” “gonna” is a colloquialism.

When we understand the role of colloquialisms in language, we can better appreciate the richness and diversity of everyday speech. This article explores the history of colloquial language, how it has changed over time, and examples of common colloquialisms in practice.

Colloquialism Definition

The term "colloquialism" is derived from the Latin word "colloquium," which means "conversation." It's a linguistic concept that language experts have studied and discussed for centuries.

Why Does Colloquial Expression Matter?

The colloquial style adds color, personality, and familiarity to our everyday language. It helps establish a sense of camaraderie and shared understanding among speakers. It sharpens the dialect of a region-based language. As language continues to evolve, so do the colloquialisms we use in our daily lives.

For example, English is spoken in Britain, the U.S., and Canada, but colloquialisms give each region a unique character. It's important to recognize when and where to use colloquialisms appropriately, as they may not always be suitable for all contexts or audiences.

The History of Colloquial Language

The use of colloquialisms can be traced back to the early days of language development. As people began to communicate with one another, they naturally developed unique ways of expressing themselves within their communities. These expressions often reflected the cultural, social, and regional influences of the time.

In the English language, colloquial expression has been around for centuries. One of the earliest recorded examples of colloquialism can be found in the works of William Shakespeare. In his plays, Shakespeare often used a colloquial style to add authenticity and relatability to his characters' dialogue, and some of these turns of phrase still exist today. In Julius Caesar, for example, Cassius says “But, for mine own part, it was Greek to me;” describing something foreign as Greek is still used conversationally.

Over time, colloquialisms have evolved and changed, reflecting the shifting dynamics of our language and society. With the rise of digital communication and social media, new colloquialisms have emerged, often spreading rapidly across the globe. Today, colloquialisms continue to shape the way we communicate and express ourselves in our daily lives.

Examples of Colloquialisms in Everyday Speech

Colloquialisms can take many forms, from shortened words and phrases to regional expressions and slang. Here are a few examples of common colloquialisms in the English language:

1. "Gonna" instead of "going to"

2. "Wanna" instead of "want to"

3. "Y'all" instead of "you all" (#texas)

4. "Ain't" instead of "am not," "is not," or "are not"

5. "Wicked" to describe something as cool

These examples illustrate how colloquialisms can simplify and condense our informal speech, making it more efficient and relatable. But they may not always be appropriate in formal settings, such as business meetings or academic writing.

When using colloquialisms, it's crucial to consider your audience and the context of your communication. In some cases, using casual conversation can help build rapport and establish a friendly tone. In other situations, though, it may be more appropriate to use standard English to ensure clarity and professionalism.

As language continues to evolve, so will the colloquial style we use. By staying attuned to the changing landscape of our language and being mindful of when and where to use colloquialisms, we can effectively navigate the rich tapestry of informal speech. Embracing colloquialisms while also understanding their limitations allows us to communicate with greater versatility and adaptability in our ever-changing world.

Difference Between Colloquialism, Slang, and Jargon

Colloquialism, slang, and jargon are all forms of informal language. While they are related terms, they also serve different purposes.

• Colloquialisms are everyday, casual expressions used and understood by most people belonging to the same language.
• Slang refers to a trendy jargon used by a specific group.
• Jargon is a specialized language used by people related to the same profession or groups.

When users read your work, a colloquialism can help them “hear” the writing in their head and help bring it to life. Be intentional about how you use this literary technique so your writing can pack more punch. ⬥