IDIOM VS SLANG VS PROVERB VS JARGON

Going beyond the literal meanings of the words makes conversations and literary work more interesting and more dramatic. Find out which phrase or word you have heard before but couldn't quite ascertain the kind of figure of speech it is categorized under. Read on.

Idioms

Idioms are words, phrases, or expressions that do not literally mean what they express. In other words, if you were to translate an idiom word for word in your own language, it most likely would not make any sense at all. Idioms are different than slang as they are used and understood by almost everyone. Slang and jargon are understood and used by a smaller group of people. There is a wide variety of idiom sources on this site for English learners. 

Idiom Examples:

1. Rain cats and dogs - rain very heavily

"It's raining cats and dogs. It's not a good idea to go to the park."

2. Break a leg - do well at a performance or presentation

"Hey, Jin. Break a leg on your concert!"

3. Under the weather - to feel slightly ill or sick

"I'm feeling a little under the weather. I think I'm getting a cold."

Note: For more examples, go to https://examples.yourdictionary.com/

Slang

Slang is used by relatively small groups of people in informal situations. As it is used by limited groups of people, slang also tends to be confused with dialect. However, slang can be referred to as words, phrases or expressions used within a language, in this case, English. Also, slang is used by some to indicate words, phrases or expressions used by various ethnic or class groups. It should not be used in written work unless that work includes quotes that contain slang. This category of vocabulary changes rather quickly and expressions that are "in" one year, may be "out" the next. 

Slang Examples:

1. Shook

While the term became popularized in '90s hip-hop and R&B music, it's technically old English, the past tense of shake. To feel shook is to be shaken up by something, for better or worse. "The movie had me shookt !"

2. Woke

If you’ve kept up with the latest political headlines and aren't afraid to have an opinion against them, you’re likely “woke.” The term also originates in Black culture. You might have also heard Congresswoman Barbara Lee use it in 2017. “We have a moral obligation to ‘stay woke,’ take a stand and be active."

3. Gucci

Yes, Gucci is the name of a luxury Italian fashion label, but its use in hip-hop songs like D&D’s “What’s Gucci” has made it synonymous with “good." It can help reflect a feeling or can be used as an adjective for something you love. “That’s so Gucci!” and “I’m Gucci!”

Note:

For more examples, go to https://www.oprahmag.com/entertainment/g23603568/slang-words-meaning/?slide=30

You can use the urban dictionary for definitions of slang. If a phrase is a slang, you'll find it there.

Proverb

Proverbs are short sentences known by quite a large part of any language speaking population. They tend to be old, give advice, and be very insightful. Many proverbs are taken from literature, or from other very old sources. However, they are used so often that the speaker does not realize who originally said or wrote the proverb.

Proverb examples:

1. The early bird gets the worm - start working early and you will be successful.

"I get up at five to get to the office early. I like to read my emails first before I start work. The early bird gets the worm!"

2. When in Rome, do as the Romans - when you are in a foreign culture, you should act like the people in that culture.

"I'm wearing sneakers to work here in NYC! When in Rome, do as the Romans."

3. You can't always get what you want - This proverb means what it says, you can't always get what you want. The Rolling Stones knew how to put that to music!

"You have to realize that you can't always get what you want. That's life!"

Jargon

Jargon could be explained as slang for business or enthusiasts. Jargon can be defined as words, phrases, or expressions that mean something specific in a particular profession. For example, there is a lot of jargon associated with the internet. It can also refer to specific words used in a sport, hobby or other activity. Jargon is known and used by those who are on the "inside" of a business or of some activity. 

Jargon Examples:

1. Molding: a decorative finishing strip at transitions between surfaces [Architecture Jargon]

2. Allegro: Cheerful or brisk tempo [Musical Jargon]

3. Facemask: A penalty of gripping an opponent’s protective mask over his mouth; worth 15 yards [Football Jargon]

Note:

For more examples, go to http://www.literarydevices.com/jargon/

Source: https://www.thoughtco.com/slang-jargon-idiom-and-proverb-1211734