Important Announcement
19 June, 2020 at 1:39 PM
Effective June 19, 2020, ELC is no longer offering year-round programs. This applies to both on-line and on-site programs. We are also no longer an IELTS test center. For 2021, we will continue to offer our Summer Junior Programs at UCLA, Boston University, and UCSB as well as our Adult Summer Campus Program at UCLA.
For more information or to book a summer course for 2021, please contact [email protected]
Important Announcement
19 June, 2020 at 1:39 PM
Effective June 19, 2020, ELC is no longer offering year-round programs. This applies to both on-line and on-site programs. We are also no longer an IELTS test center. For 2021, we will continue to offer our Summer Junior Programs at UCLA, Boston University, and UCSB as well as our Adult Summer Campus Program at UCLA.
For more information or to book a summer course for 2021, please contact [email protected]
West Coast English Slang
You’ve heard it before on the radio. You can read it online. English slang is everywhere. Used primarily by young adults and teens, English slang is a quick way to claim insider knowledge, gain “street cred,” and to sound cool, hip and down with the times.
Below is a list of the most popular English slang words you might hear while visiting California – specifically Los Angeles. Just remember, English slang is about delivery. Many English slang words have multiple meanings. “Clutch,” for example, could mean a small handbag when spoken as a noun ( a clutch ), but when stated as an adjective with enthusiasm ( …clutch! ) the word takes on a different meaning.
Using English slang is a great, yet challenging, way to engage native speakers and to participate in West Coast youth culture. When in doubt, ask a native speaker or your teacher to clarify. Keep it fresh!
Ex. You – “Having a good time?”
Me – “No, I think I’m going to bail soon.”
Ex. You – “Have you seen her new house? It’s ballin!”
Ex. Me – “Did you go to the LA County Fair?”
You – “No, not yet.”
Me – “You should go. The food is bomb!”
Ex. You – “That suit looks boss.”
Ex. You – “Hey, can I bum a piece of paper?”
Ex. Me – “Why was that guy so rude?”
You – “I don’t know. He has a bad attitude. Someone needs to call him out.”
Ex. Me – “Thanks for picking me up! You were clutch.”
Ex. You – “Ready to go?”
Me – “Yeah, let’s cruise.”
Ex. Me – “Wow, that haircut is fresh!.”
Ex. You – “How come you didn’t surf this weekend?”
Me – “Because those waves were gnarley.”
Ex. You – “The news was really heavy today.”
Ex. You – “Is that a new DJ (disc-jockey)?”
Me – “It is! This party is poppin’!”
Ex. Me – “I’ll meet you outside. Post up by the front door.”
Ex. Me – “You are rocking that scarf!.”
Ex. You – “Let’s go. This club is super sketchy (sketch).”