Slang Worksheet

Slang: Words/phrases commonly used in talk among friends or colleagues, not

suitable for good writing or for formal occasions.

1.a) Why do you think people use slang?

b) When do you use slang and with whom?
c) List examples of slang words/phrases that you use.
d) Are there any expressions which you and your friends use which your parents/
teachers do not use?

2. Express each Irish slang word in the table below in more formal English.

Irish Slang Expressed in formal English

Eejit
Rapid
Mitch
Jaded
Lad
Yoke
Sambo
Chipper
Togs
Nixer
Mé féiner
Dosser
Chat
Massive
Chance one’s arm
 Slang Worksheet

3. a) For each Irish slang word in the left column find the British slang word in the
box below with a similar meaning and place in the middle column opposite its
Irish equivalent.
b) Think of a slang word used in your own country for each of the Irish and
British pairs and place in the third column.

Irish Slang British Slang Slang used in my

Country
Eejit
Rapid
Mitch
Jaded
Lad
Yoke
Sambo
Chipper
Togs
Nixer
Mé féiner
Dosser
Chat
Massive
Chance one’s arm

British Slang
Bunk off, Chin-wag, Cossie, Greasy spoon,

Fella, Ace, ‘I am’ Go for broke,

Bum, Sarnie, Knackered, Ginormous,

Plonker, Whatsit, Moonlight