Types and Functions of Slang Words Used in Bookworm (2024) Movie Script

Ni Wayan Riska Astriani Putri; I Komang Sulatra

doi:10.51673/jurnalistrendi.v11i4.3140

Ni Wayan Riska Astriani Putri Fakultas Bahasa Asing, Universitas Mahasaraswati Denpasar
I Komang Sulatra Universitas Mahasaraswati, Denpasar

DOI: https://doi.org/10.51673/jurnalistrendi.v11i4.3140

Keywords: Slang, Types of Slang, Slang Functions, Socilinguistics, Bookworm (2024) Movie

Abstract

This study aims to identify the types and functions of slang expressions used in the Bookworm (2024) movie script. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, the data were collected from the movie script through repeated reading, note-taking, and observation. The analysis was guided by the classification of slang adapted from Allan and Burridge (2006) and Coleman (2012), while the functions of slang were interpreted by considering the conversational context, speakers, and addressees. The findings from ten selected slang expressions reveal five types of slang: community slang, standard slang, taboo slang, fresh and creative slang, and borrowed slang. Community slang is the most frequent category, with three occurrences, followed by standard slang, taboo slang, and fresh and creative slang, with two occurrences each, while borrowed slang appears once. The expressions serve six functions: addressing, humiliating, initiating relaxed conversations, forming an intimate atmosphere, expressing impressions, and revealing anger. Based on the analyzed examples, expressing impressions occurs in several different conversational contexts, although a complete frequency count of all six functions is needed to determine the dominant function. This study contributes to sociolinguistic research by demonstrating how slang in movie dialogue conveys attitudes, emotions, interpersonal relationships, and character identity.

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