SLANG IN SINGAPORE : MIXING OR BORROWING?

Abstract

Slang in multilingual Singapore not only consists of English based terms. but non-English based ones as well. which have been transferred from local languages like Malay and Hokkien into the English language, as a result of language contact. This study investigates whether slang in such a contact situation is a case of mixing or borrowing -- both phenomena being the result of language contact. Chapter One provides a brief introduction to the notion of slang, as well as discusses the scope and objectives of this study. In Chapter Two, the views of various linguists concerning the definition of mixing and borrowing are presented. As these linguists have not reached a consensus regarding the definition of mixing and borrowing, this chapter attempts to arrive at a clear-cut definition of the terms. Formal and functional criteria, as well as the criteria of speakers' perception and linguistic ability are highlighted for this purpose. Chapter Three discusses the methodology, involving a questionnaire conducted amongst students at the National University of Singapore, which has been adopted in this study. In Chapter Four, an in-depth analysis of slang in Singapore is presented, using the framework of mixing and borrowing. The findings and analysis are based on data collected from the questionnaire conducted. Chapter Five summarizes the discussions and findings of this Academic Exercise. It also examines the implications of the study.