Slang Origins

            There simply aren't enough words to express the many varying and complex emotions we have. Because of the fact that it would add to the creativity of our language, help students differentiate between proper and improper grammar styles, and let us express ourselves in ways that before were very difficult to achieve, the English language ought to be revised to accommodate the changing needs of our society.
             From "spanglish" to ebonics, the English language is constantly being manipulated into all sorts of different forms to best suit its purpose. This is part of what makes the American culture so unique. Our language comes from three basic sources: what was brought over from the mother country, England, during settlement a mix of different languages and cultures all brought together into what is called the "melting pot" of American society and lastly, experiences and social reforms brought about by the ever-changing needs of a growing country. The third reason, however, has largely been neglected by many as a viable source of new vocabulary. Although many terms that are commonly used in everyday speech are perfectly functional as well as able to express their intended purpose, they simply are not acknowledged as part of what is considered to be "proper" grammar. For instance, the term "How are you doing?" has evolved into "How are you," then to "What's up," and finally the phrase commonly being used on the streets today, " Sup?" Although these expressions all convey the same message, the latter two are considered to be inappropriate in formal conversation. This, however, is ludicrous. Just as our culture has evolved, so has our language. In today's busy world, people often do not wish to take the time to say "How are you," when a simple "Sup" would suffice. Contrary to the popular belief that this consolidation of terms leads to the degradation of the English language, I firmly believe that it actually adds to the color and variety that makes our culture so unique.