Not everything can be taught in the classroom –
that’s why we’ve put together a list of 10 newer English words, slang terms and
figures of speech for you to sprinkle into your English conversations. Not sure
how to use them? Don’t worry, we’ve included definitions and examples of how to
use them in a sentence.
A song or tune that, once you’ve heard it, is
stuck in your head.
Use it: “That new Taylor Swift song is such an earworm!”
Staycation
Spending your holiday in your hometown rather
than travelling abroad. Often spent relaxing around the house or doing
activities in the local area.
Use it: “I’m having a staycation this summer, as I’m trying to save
money.”
Webisode
An episode or series created exclusively for
online viewing. This can be part of a web series or used to promote a
television series.
Use it: “There’s a new Breaking Bad webisode online, have you seen it?”
Crowdfunding
Funding a project or business venture by asking
a large number of people (typically online) to invest a small amount of money –
usually via websites such as Kickstarter and Indiegogo.
Use it: “We raised enough money to launch our business using crowdfunding.”
Glamping
Glamorous camping! Avoiding any rough conditions
with luxurious facilities and accommodation, such as a yurt or cabin.
Use it: “We’re going to be glamping at Glastonbury this year.”
Lookalike
Something or someone that closely resembles
something else, often used to describe someone who looks very similar to a
celebrity.
Use it: “Have you seen the Prince William and Kate Middleton lookalikes
over there?”
Handover
This word has a more political significance, in
terms of gaining land or ownership. However, its modern usage is commonly in
the workplace: The act of passing over control or responsibility to another
person while you are off work on holiday or leaving a job.
Use it: “I’ll send my notes in a handover email so you can continue the
project while I’m away.”
Meh
When something is a little uninspiring or dull.
Also a word you could use to describe your lack of interest or indifference.
It’s basically a verbal shrug.
Use it: “The film was a bit meh.”
Binge-watch
Watching multiple episodes of a TV show, one
after another, in a single sitting. Usually with a DVD box set or using online
streaming.
Use it: “I’m planning to binge-watch the entire series of Game of Thrones
this weekend!”
Bae
An affectionate term for a girlfriend or
boyfriend, short for babe or baby. Some say it’s an acronym for ‘before anyone
else’.
Use it: “See you later, bae.”