Abstract: This thesis studies American slang from the perspective of linguistics. In this thesis the traditional descriptive analysis is employed to discuss what makes the American slang unique and attractive, what contributes to the tenacious vitality of American slang. The thesis holds the view that it is the characteristics of American slang as well as its social, cultural and psychological function that make it dynamic. Present researches have contributed a lot to the study of American slang, but they mostly remain at the level of explaining the meaning of slang. This essay will study it from the aspect of linguistic feature and its function in a more comprehensive and detailed way by using the actor’s lines in the Two Broke Girls as examples. 

  Key words: American slang; linguistic feature; function; traditional descriptive analysis  

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction1

2. Literature Review ..1

  2.1 Definition of Slang

  2.2 Origin and Development of American Slang

  2.3 Present Research Situation at Home and Abroad

3. Linguistic Features of American Slang3

  3.1 Phonological Features

    3.1.1 Alliteration in American Slang

    3.1.2 Consonance in American Slang

    3.1.3 Onomatopoeia in American Slang

  3.2 Lexicological Features

    3.2.1 Shortening

    3.2.2 Compounding

    3.2.3 Repetition

  3.3 Rhetorical Devices in American Slang

    3.3.1 Metaphor

    3.3.2 Euphemism

    3.3.3 Hyperbole

4. The Function of American Slang8

  4.1 The Cultural Function of American Slang

    4.1.1 Reflecting the Sexual Culture

    4.1.2 Reflecting the Drug Culture

  4.2 The Social Functions of American Slang  

  4.3 The Psychological Functions of American Slang

    4.3.1 Relieving the Pressure

    4.3.2 Bring A Sense of Belonging

5. Conclusion10

Bibliography.12

Acknowledgements13