Vernacular is a style of writing that uses everyday language, including slang, emojis, and informal phrases. It’s the opposite of formal writing, and it’s often used in social media, text messages, and other online platforms. It’s a synonym of a colloquialism and an antonym of formal language.
10 examples of vernacular are:
- Cray-cray
- Bae
- YOLO
- Lit
- Fam
- #SquadGoals
- On Fleek
- #NoFilter
- Squad
- Salty
Vernacular: The Art of Casual Conversation
Vernacular is like the cool, laid-back cousin of formal language. It’s the language people use when they’re chatting with friends, sharing a joke, or simply expressing themselves in a relaxed way. By incorporating vernacular into writing, it’s possible to capture the essence of everyday conversation and make readers feel like they’re right there, chatting with the characters or soaking in the atmosphere of a setting.
When to Use Informal Language
Sometimes, writing calls for a more casual touch. In these cases, vernacular is the perfect choice. It can help create relatable, authentic characters and settings, bringing a story or message to life in a way that formal language just can’t. Consider using vernacular in:
- Fiction writing: Dialogue between characters, particularly those who are close friends or come from the same community, can benefit from the use of vernacular.
- Social media posts: Social media is all about connecting with others and expressing oneself, making it the perfect platform for informal language.
- Blog posts or articles: Depending on the subject matter and target audience, vernacular can help create a more approachable and relatable tone in blog posts or articles.
Proceed with Caution: When to Avoid Vernacular
While vernacular can be a valuable tool for creating relatable and engaging writing, it’s not always the best choice. In some cases, using informal language can make a piece of writing seem unprofessional or out of place. Avoid using vernacular in:
- Academic writing: Essays, research papers, and other academic works require a more formal tone.
- Professional communication: Emails, reports, and other professional documents should generally stick to formal language.
- When addressing a diverse audience: Vernacular might not be understood by everyone, so it’s important to consider whether using it will exclude or alienate readers.
Crafting Your Own Vernacular
Feeling inspired to create some unique vernacular for your writing? Here are some tips for crafting informal language that resonates with readers:
- Listen to real conversations: Pay attention to how people talk in everyday life, and use those observations as inspiration for your own vernacular.
- Consider your characters or setting: The vernacular used should be appropriate for the characters or setting in your writing. Think about their background, age, and interests when creating informal language.
- Keep it natural: Vernacular should feel authentic and natural, not forced. If a phrase or expression doesn’t sound quite right, it’s better to leave it out than to shoehorn it in.
Examples of Vernacular in Writing
Here are some examples of vernacular in action, showcasing how informal language can be used effectively in various types of writing:
- Fiction: “Hey, dude, did you see that sick jump? It was totally gnarly!”
- Social media post: “Just chillin’ with my besties by the pool. #SundayFunday”
- Blog post: “If you’re tired of the same old dinner routine, it’s time to spice things up with this delish new recipe!”
By understanding and incorporating vernacular into writing, it’s possible to create engaging, relatable, and authentic characters and scenarios. However, it’s important to use vernacular thoughtfully and in moderation to maintain professionalism and clarity when needed. With a little creativity and a keen ear for everyday conversation, you can craft your own vernacular that will make your writing shine.
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