Colloquialism

Introduction

A colloquialism, when employed as a literary device, refers to the incorporation of informal, everyday language within a predominantly formal written or spoken discourse. This intentional use of colloquial expressions serves to mirror natural conversation and enhance the authenticity of characters’ dialogues or the overall narrative voice. By juxtaposing casual language within a structured context, authors aim to evoke a sense of realism, cultural identity, and relatability, thereby enriching the depth and resonance of their literary work.

Writing or Incorporating Colloquialism in Writing

Step	Explanation	Example
Using Expressive Language	Utilizing vivid and impactful terminology to effectively convey ideas.	In The Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald uses the phrase “old sport” to depict the casual camaraderie among the characters.
Exploring Casual Conversations	Investigating informal dialogues and discussions within literary contexts.	Shakespeare’s use of bawdy humor and witty banter in “Much Ado About Nothing” adds depth to character interactions.
Deconstructing Simplicity	Analyzing instances where literary works employ straightforward language and concepts.	Hemingway’s minimalist writing style in The Old Man and the Sea reflects the protagonist’s straightforward worldview. This style is best for colloquialism.
Attentive Reception	Delving into the portrayal of active listening and engagement among characters.	Jane Austen’s novels often highlight characters’ keen observation and insightful responses during social interactions.
Rest and Repose in Literature	Examining representations of sleep or rest in literary works.	In Macbeth, sleep symbolizes guilt and innocence as characters struggle with the consequences of their actions.
Indirect Communication in Prose	Investigating instances where characters use vague or evasive language.	J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye showcases the protagonist’s use of slang and colloquialisms to express his disconnection.
Disclosing Secrets in Narratives	Analyzing the thematic significance of revealing confidential information in stories.	In To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee uses colloquial dialogue to unveil the town’s hidden prejudices and secrets.
Courage Amid Adversity	Exploring characters’ reactions when confronted with challenging circumstances.	In The Lord of the Rings, Frodo and Sam’s colloquial exchanges highlight their enduring friendship during their arduous journey.
Superstitions and Performance	Investigating the portrayal of luck-related beliefs before pivotal moments in narratives.	In Othello, Shakespeare uses the colloquial phrase “green-eyed monster” to convey Othello’s jealousy and insecurity.
Meteorological Metaphors	Analyzing the use of weather-related expressions to enhance literary imagery.	The storm in King Lear serves as a metaphor for the internal turmoil and chaos within the characters’ lives when they use colloquialism.

This table helps organize the information more clearly and makes it easier for readers to understand how, why, and where to use colloquialism in their writings.

Benefits of Using Colloquialism

1. Enhanced Engagement: Colloquial language captures readers’ attention and encourages active participation in the text.
2. Relatable Tone: Using colloquialism establishes a relatable and conversational tone, fostering a connection with the audience.
3. Readers’ Involvement: Colloquialism invites readers to connect emotionally, making them feel like participants rather than passive observers.
4. Cultural Authenticity: Colloquialisms reflect the cultural nuances of everyday language, enhancing authenticity within the text.
5. Expressive Nuances: Colloquial phrases enable writers to convey subtle emotions, attitudes, and viewpoints effectively.
6. Informal Accessibility: Colloquial language breaks down barriers, making complex concepts more accessible to a broader audience.
7. Character Portrayal: Colloquialism differentiates characters, adding depth and realism to their personalities in literature.
8. Vivid Imagery: Colloquial expressions paint vivid mental pictures, intensifying the impact of descriptions.
9. Modern Relevance: Utilizing colloquialism keeps written content current and aligned with evolving language trends.
10. Narrative Dynamics: Incorporating colloquial English can alter the pacing and rhythm of the narrative, enriching its overall texture.

It must be kept in mind that the use of colloquial English should be appropriate for the context and target audience of your writing.

Colloquialism in Literary Theory

Literary Theory	Application to Colloquialism	Example and Critique
British Humanism	Reflects character individuality and realism.	Novel: Down and Out in Paris and London by George Orwell Colloquial expressions capture character voices authentically, but excessive slang and dialects may alienate readers unfamiliar with nuances, hindering engagement.
Formalism	Analyzes impact on structure and style.	Poem: “The Waste Land” by T.S. Eliot Colloquial language contrasts the speaker’s informality with the poem’s formal structure, adding depth. However, misplaced expressions disrupt immersion and aesthetic impact.
Marxism	Reflects social class distinctions.	Short Story: The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck Colloquialism distinguishes classes, but reinforcing stereotypes undermines challenging power structures and nuanced exploration of class dynamics.
Postcolonialism	Explores language, identity, and hegemony.	Novel: Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe Colloquial expressions from colonizer’s and colonized’s languages highlight power dynamics. Careful evaluation needed to avoid perpetuating linguistic hierarchies and colonial dominance.
Feminism	Challenges gender dynamics and language.	Play: “A Doll’s House” by Henrik Ibsen Colloquialism empowers female characters and challenges patriarchal language. Critical analysis necessary to avoid limiting roles or reinforcing gendered stereotypes.

Suggested Readings

1. Epoge, Napoleon Kang. “Slang and Colloquialism in Cameroon English Verbal Discourse.” International Journal of Linguistics 4.1 (2012): 130. Print.
2. King, Gareth. Colloquial English: The Complete Course for Beginners. Routledge, 2015. Print.
3. Lodge, Ken R. Studies in the Phonology of Colloquial English. Routledge, 2015. Print.
4. Radford, Andrew. Colloquial English: Structure and Variation. Vol. 158. Cambridge Studies in Linguistics, 2018. Print.
5. Tracy, Karen, and Jessica S. Robles. Everyday Talk: Building and Reflecting Identities. Guilford Press, 2013. Print.