Informal Language/Slang
Understanding the Importance of Formal Language
In academic writing, clarity, precision, and formality are essential. While slang can add color and personality to casual conversation, it is generally considered inappropriate for academic work. This handout will discuss the issues associated with using slang in academic writing and provide examples and practice exercises to help you recognize and avoid it.
Why Slang is Inappropriate in Academic Writing
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Lack of Precision: Slang terms often have vague or multiple meanings, which can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. Academic writing requires precise language to convey complex ideas clearly.
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Informality: Slang is typically informal and may come across as unprofessional or unserious in an academic context. Academic writing should maintain a formal tone to reflect the seriousness and rigor of scholarly work.
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Limited Audience: Slang is often specific to certain groups or cultures and may not be understood by a broader audience. Academic writing should be accessible and comprehensible to readers from diverse backgrounds.
Examples of Slang in Academic Writing
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"The results of the experiment were mind-blowing." (Better: "The results of the experiment were significant.")
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"The author totally nails it in the final chapter." (Better: "The author effectively concludes the argument in the final chapter.")
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"The data is sketchy." (Better: "The data is unreliable.")
Practice Sentences
Rewrite the following sentences to remove the slang and make them appropriate for academic writing:
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The findings of the study were lit.
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The theory sounds iffy.
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Her argument is on point.
Conclusion
Avoiding slang in academic writing is crucial for maintaining clarity, formality, and accessibility. By recognizing and eliminating slang, you can improve the quality and credibility of your scholarly work. Practice revising sentences to ensure your academic writing meets the high standards expected in scholarly communication.