The Oxford English Dictionary defines ‘Slang’ as: ‘informal language that is
more common in speech than in writing and is typically restricted to a particular
context or group’. Dictionaries of slang have been produced for some time in
order to convey the cultural relevance of slang, as it is ‘intrinsic to the quest of
human culture to express and to renew itself.’ (Clarence Major). Black style and
culture has been influenced by alternative terms for objects or social language.

Below are five examples. We invite you to add to these to help create an
alternative of black style. E-mail your favourite ‘alternative’ words to
webmaster@vam.ac.uk

Check it:
take a look at something, pay close attention to something

Seen:
I understand, I agree, right.

Sistren/Bredren:
A respectful greeting amongst fellow Rastas or men and women
friends generally.

Darkers/Shades:
Sunglasses

Marina:
The Jamaican Patois word for a vest, singlet or sleeveless undershirt.

blood:
close mate, good friend

bruv:
brother

bare:
loads of something!

wa gwan:
hello, how you doing?

nang:
wicked, cool

safe:
thanks, alright

buff:
handsome

choong:
beautiful

tuff:
good, great

heavy:
nice, good

chill:
calm down, relax

whats popping:
what's happening/going on