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Within language and discourse studies, we call colloquialisms those informal expressions that are used more frequently in relaxed conversation, that is, in speech, than in formal or written discourse . Colloquialisms develop in language through years of informal communication between speakers who know each other.
Using colloquialisms is not speaking badly or being uneducated, but is simply a type of linguistic register . It is about using words, structures and phrases typical of the region or nationality where you live. It is often said that colloquial speech is learned at home instead of at school. When it comes to colloquialisms, there are no rules for their appearance in common speech. The word colloquialism comes from “colloquial”, which in turn derives from colloquium, which means conversation.
Informal writing and speaking
Everyday speech is full of colloquialisms, although it is now very common to find them in written communications as well. Writing is more informal than before, and highly formal texts are increasingly rare. For example, we have state documents, scientific articles, legal documents and judicial decisions and sentences. But even within these colloquialisms can be found, although it is rarer. The same has also happened with other writings that now seem more informal than before. This phenomenon has caused some formal authors to recommend using colloquialisms without much consideration in order to capture more of the reader’s interest.
Other types of informal language
Slang, colloquialisms, and euphemisms make up the bulk of informal language. Slang is made up of a glossary of words that have arbitrarily replaced others. Colloquialism is part of the particular dialect of a geographical area and can be found in both words and expressions. Finally, the euphemism is that harmless word or expression that replaces another that may offend or suggest something unpleasant to the reader or listener.
The utility of colloquialisms
Informal language can be very useful when used to talk about people. In this context their terms may be more appropriate than those of formal speech. For example, it is useful for describing the mental or physical characteristics of other people. Saying that someone is insane sounds less offensive than simply saying that he is insane. To describe a pleasant person or situation we can say that it is cool, cool, or cool, depending on the Spanish-speaking country you are in. All these expressions are part of colloquial language.
colloquialisms with date
Colloquialisms appear constantly in response to cultural changes, but once established they do not usually have a long lifespan. The useful life of these depends on many factors in society. As people and customs develop, those colloquialisms that were part of their identity expire and become obsolete.
References
Esparza, P.(2016) 6 Latin American expressions that it is difficult for Spaniards to understand (and how I came to adopt them). Available at: https://www.bbc.com/mundo/noticias-america-latina-37025329
Del Pozo, M. (1998) Tell me how you speak and I’ll tell you if I understand you: the importance of teaching colloquial expressions, idioms, slang. ASELE. Available at: https://dialnet.unirioja.es/descarga/articulo/892224.pdf
