A Race-Based Approach to the Study of Slang Expressions in American Movies and TV Series

Abstract

This study employs a race-based framework to analyze the use of slang expressions in American movies and TV series. By examining linguistic choices in media content through the lens of race, we aim to uncover the nuanced ways in which cultural identities are portrayed and negotiated. Through a comprehensive qualitative analysis, encompassing a diverse range of productions spanning various genres and time periods, this research seeks to illuminate the complex interplay between language, ethnicity, and societal constructs within the realm of American entertainment. The findings of this study promise to contribute valuable insights to both linguistic and cultural studies, offering a deeper understanding of how language functions as a vehicle for representation and identity construction in the media landscape. In the first movie “Get Rich or Die Trying” the number of slang are seventeen words. Concerning the race thirteen of the speakers are black, and four are white. Function used most in slangy words the social status scale. In the second T.V Series “Atlanta” the number of slang words are fifteen. Concerning the race, 15 of the speakers are black. Function used most in slangy words the Middle class