The particular dialect or language that a person chooses to use on any occasion is called a code 3631 Copyright © 2025 The Author IDEAS is licensed under CC-BY-SA 4.0 License Issued by English study program of IAIN Palopo IDEAS Journal of Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Literature ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) Volume 13, Number 2, December 2025 pp. 3631 - 3648 Slang Words Used in Dope Movie Hanifa Fildza Ghassani1, Otong Setiawan Djuharie2, Toneng Listiani3 1,2,3English Literature, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati, Bandung, Jawa Barat Corresponding E-Mail: hanifafg30@gmail.com Received: 2025-07-20 Accepted: 2025-07-29 DOI: 10.24256/ideas. v13i2.7535 Abstract This study examines the types and meanings of slang words used in Rick Famuyiwa's film 'Dope' (2015). Although there have been many studies on the use of slang in general, the analysis of African-American urban youth slang in contemporary film media remains limited, particularly with regard to the manner in which these linguistic patterns function in specific community contexts. This study uses Allan and Burridge's (2006) theoretical framework for slang classification. Employing a qualitative descriptive methodology, the study identifies and categories slang from the film's dialogue transcripts. The analysis identifies 91 slang words, which are classified into five types: fresh and creative, flippant, imitative, acronym, and clipping. The prevalence of the flippant and fresh/creative categories suggests that the characters employ innovative language that consciously deviates from conventional meanings. This reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of urban youth communication, thereby conveying group identity, emotional nuances, and social harmony within the youth subculture. The analysis of slang in "Dope" is significant for sociolinguistics as it captures authentic patterns of everyday language from contemporary African-American youth culture through cinematic representation, offering insights into how linguistic identity is constructed and manifested in media. However, it should be noted that the findings are limited to dialogue within a single film and therefore may not represent broader community usage patterns or linguistic variation in the real world. Keywords: Sociolinguistics; Slang Words; Dope; Movie; Urban language; African- American youth. Introduction Slang is an informal term used by men and women, young and old, or within a specific social community, for internal communication. People need to communicate with others to fulfil their daily needs, and language is the most essential tool for communication. It is used to express thought, feelings, and desires. According to Keraf (2010), language is a sound symbol produced by the human http://u.lipi.go.id/1457703302 mailto:hanifafg30@gmail.com Hanifa Fildza Ghassani, Otong Setiawan Djuharie, Toneng Listiani Slang Words Used in Dope Movie 3632 vocal organs and is a means by which members of society communicate. The scientific study of language is known as linguistics. According to Chomsky (2000), linguistics is defined as the scientific study of language in a systematic manner. Furthermore, the branch of linguistics that explains the variety of language is called Sociolinguistics. Holmes (2013) states that sociolinguistics is the study of the relationship between language and society. They are interested in explaining why people speak differently in different social contexts by identifying the social functions of language and the ways it is used to convey social meaning. In addition, Wardhaugh and Fuller (2015) stated that no one speaks the same way all the time, and people constantly exploit language variation for various purposes. One linguistic phenomenon that has attracted attention is the use of slang, which is increasingly popular among the younger generation. Slang is an informal variety of language that develops specifically within a particular group or community. According to Mattiello (2008), slang, with its dynamic and evolving nature, is a complex linguistic phenomenon that reflects the cultural, social, and generational nuances of a particular language community. Supported by Burdova and Vogel (2009), slang is characterized by a high degree of informality, familiarity, richness of vocabulary, and is used by specific groups connected through region, age, subculture, and generally appears in spoken form. The use of slang is not only found in daily conversation but also in various forms of media, including music, social media, and film. Film, as one of the cultural products, is a medium that represents the use of language in real life, including the use of slang. The use of language, including slang, in films can provide insight into individual characterization, the depiction of social background, and the dynamics of relationships between characters. In conclusion, slang can be defined as a non- standard vocabulary typically used for informal communication within a specific social group in a particular location. According to Allan and Burridge (2006)Slang is grouped into five types: 1) fresh and creative, which is a product of imagination, slang, intelligence, inventiveness, informal forms, and modern words, creating completely fresh terminology. Some familiar words may be slang because we don't realise it. Slang has been around since the 18th century, so these words are likely familiar to us because they were used in the past. 2) Flippant is a vocabulary of two or more words that have a new meaning. It's a type of slang where words are used in a way that differs from their original meanings. 3) Imitative is a slang word that uses Standard English (SE) words in new ways. It combines words or uses them in different contexts than usual. It's a new way of using an old word to create a new meaning. 4) Acronym refers to a type of slang that is created by combining the first letters of each word in a sentence or by using the initials of several words or syllables. 5) Clipping is a type of slang that is created in the same context by deleting some parts of a longer word to create a shorter form intended to make speech and writing easier or quicker. IDEAS, Vol. 13, No. 2, December 2025 ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) 3633 Previous research in slang analysis has primarily focused on classification and functional analysis across various media contexts. Rachman (2020) conducted a comprehensive study of slang expressions in the Transformers movie trilogy, identifying five types of slang based on Allan & Burridge's theory and examining their functions using Leech's theoretical framework. The study reveals that the characters employ varied slang expressions, totalling 279 data points across the three films. The study employs a qualitative descriptive method, similar to the writer's study in terms of both method and theoretical framework, yet distinct in its focus on the objects studied. Similarly, Dula (2024) analyzed slang usage in "Dumb and Dumber," discovering four types of slang from 118 identified expressions, with imitative slang being the most common and anger expression as the primary communicative function. The present study employs a non-participatory video method, which differs from the writer study in terms of methodology but is similar in its use of Allan & Burridge's theory. Munthe, Arifin, and Setyowati (2023) examined slang words in the "IT" movie using Patridge's theory. They demonstrated that society slang was most frequently used, characterised by familiar and sometimes rude words related to social interaction. The study is similar in method to the writer's, but differs in terms of type theory and object. This study focuses on Rick Famuyiwa's film ‘Dope’ (2015), although many studies have established a significant foundation for analysing slang in the context of media and digital technology, they commonly regard slang as a broad linguistic phenomenon without considering the specific socio-cultural context or communication patterns characteristic of a particular community. The film Dope (2015) was selected as the object of study due to it being a film that depicts African- American teenagers in a contemporary urban setting living in a unique way. Dope features linguistically rich dialogue rooted in culture, particularly in its use of African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and youth slang. The film explores how slang is used to shape identity, power, and solidarity within marginalised communities among African-American teenagers. This study aims to address a gap in the existing linguistic research by employing Allan & Burridge's (2006) theoretical framework to analyse the linguistic characteristics of slang in this film. Based on the identified gap, this research addresses two primary questions: (1) What types of slang words are employed by characters in the "Dope" movie according to Allan and Burridge's classification? (2) How do the meanings of these slang words reflect the cultural and social contexts of the characters? The research objectives are to categorise and examine slang varieties, provide comprehensive interpretations of their meanings. Focusing on the sociolinguistic dimensions of slang as it appears in films rich in cultural context, this study provides empirical data for understanding urban youth language and its representation in the media. Hanifa Fildza Ghassani, Otong Setiawan Djuharie, Toneng Listiani Slang Words Used in Dope Movie 3634 The novelty of this study lies in its in-depth analysis of AAVE-influenced slang in a cinematic context. The uniqueness of this research lies in its sociolinguistic analysis focused on the use of slang in authentic African-American youth conversations, providing data that enriches our understanding of how slang operates within urban youth culture and offers insights into how language is used as a tool to shape identity, resistance, and community solidarity in contemporary media representations. Method This research uses a qualitative descriptive method to describe and understand how slang is used in the context of the Dope movie. According to Creswell and David Creswell (2018), qualitative methods allow for the exploration of complex phenomena through narrative analysis. The researcher also used content analysis design. Krippendorff (2004) says content analysis offers a methodical approach to investigating linguistic themes within social contexts. This approach was chosen because it helps understand slang use in depth and explores why people use slang words socially. Furthermore, to ensure the quality of the data collected, the researcher employed a purposive sampling technique during the data collection process. Supported by Miles and Huberman (1994), purposive sampling technique is effective for selecting information-rich data in qualitative research. The criteria for selecting slang included words that appeared multiple times throughout the film's dialogue, examples drawn from different characters to ensure representational variety, and slang meanings that could be verified through various authoritative sources based on the film's context. Data saturation was determined when no new types of slang emerged from additional viewing sessions, specifically when repeated viewings yielded no additional slang terms or meanings, indicating that a comprehensive understanding of the slang used in the film had been achieved. Thus, the researcher can ensure that the data collected is relevant and supports the research objectives. By employing a qualitative research method with a content analysis design, the researcher will identify the types of slang used in the movie Dope. In order to enhance reliability, a secondary coder with a background in linguistics was involved in the categorization process. A second researcher, with a background in slang and sociolinguistics, conducted an independent review of a subset of the data in order to verify the classification of slang types and meanings. The resolution of discrepancies was achieved through the process of consensus, thus ensuring that the analysis was both competent and reliable. The data in this study is taken from the movie ‘Dope’ by Rick Famuyiwa (2015), accessible through the Netflix application or Netflix web. Additionally, the data is also available in the form of film scripts and transcripts of film dialogue. The data can be viewed at the following link: IDEAS, Vol. 13, No. 2, December 2025 ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) 3635 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qOhdZGpKky6Wuf6V5_r9QKzja8jy WAEiy06vcFHgYCU/edit?usp=sharing The data collection process is divided into several steps. The first step in this process is watch the film ‘Dope’ and watched repeatedly to understand the narrative context, characters, conversation patterns, language style, and language usage. The second step is publicly available transcripts were downloaded and matched with the original dialogue to ensure transcription accuracy, especially in cases of rapid speech or overlapping dialogue. The third step is conducting frame-by-frame analysis of dialogue-rich scenes, pausing to identify potential slang expressions and noting the time for reference. The next step is creating an initial list of potential slang words based on deviations from Standard English and contextual usage patterns. Furthermore, each slang term is accompanied by contextual information, including speaker identity, scene situation, frequency of use, and tone. The last step is review to ensure that all identified slang meets the criteria and is classified accurately. The author's analytical process is outlined as follows: the author classifies all data slang terms based on Allan and Burridge's (2006) five-type framework (fresh and creative, casual, imitative, acronyms, and clipping), and interpret their meanings using contextual clues and supported by authoritative online linguistic references and urban dictionaries. The last is concluding. The ethical considerations that guided this research are particularly relevant in the context of the analysis of African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and culturally specific language. This research respects the integrity of AAVE as a legitimate linguistic system and the experiences of its speakers. It is important to note that great care was taken to ensure that there was no misrepresentation or appropriation of the language and culture depicted in the film. The researcher acknowledges a non-native position with regard to African-American linguistic and cultural communities. In order to approach the data with cultural sensitivity, efforts were made to avoid stereotypes and overgeneralizations. The researcher conducted a thorough review of the extant literature on AAVE and its role in identity expression, exercising caution in the interpretation of slang that could carry nuanced or community-specific meanings. Results The results of this study reveal various forms of slang used in the dialogue of the movie “Dope”. Character’s conversations reflect street language and contemporary teenage communication patterns that are relevant to sociolinguistic research. Data analysis reveals that slang plays a crucial role in language and culture, often reflecting group identity, creative expression, and social change. The classification of slang in the movie is based on the theory of Allan and Burridge (2006), who distinguished five primary types: fresh and creative, flippant, imitative, acronym and clipping. The following data has been analyzed: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qOhdZGpKky6Wuf6V5_r9QKzja8jyWAEiy06vcFHgYCU/edit?usp=sharing https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qOhdZGpKky6Wuf6V5_r9QKzja8jyWAEiy06vcFHgYCU/edit?usp=sharing Hanifa Fildza Ghassani, Otong Setiawan Djuharie, Toneng Listiani Slang Words Used in Dope Movie 3636 Table 1. Types of Slang Words No. Types Total Percentage 1. Fresh and Creative 25 27% 2. Flippant 26 29% 3. Imitative 22 24% 4. Acronym 4 4% 5. Clipping 14 15% Total 91 100% After a thorough review of the film and its transcript, approximately 91 data points were identified. The findings indicate that casual, inventive, and lively language is often used in these films, particularly in highly emotional or confrontational scenes. Some characters frequently use informal slang to assert dominance, show aggression, or tease others, while more playful expressions or those that reveal identity, such as 'coolio' and 'dope,' are classified as lively and inventive. Acronyms and clipping are common in casual dialogue, reflecting their place in urban youth language. Furthermore, the distribution of slang terms does not seem to be consistent among all characters. The character Malcolm, the protagonist, demonstrates a diverse range of slang usage, exhibiting fresh and creative, imitative, and clipping slang. The language employed reflects both intelligence and efforts to navigate various social spaces, shifting between academic, street, and tech-savvy discourses. Slang patterns exhibit contextual variation, with the employment of fresh and creative forms such as "dope" and "yahtzee" when expressing enthusiasm in the context of music or academia. Furthermore, the utilization of flippant expressions such as "goddamn" and "fuck" during confrontational scenes, and the employment of clipped forms like "bro" and "sup" in casual peer interactions, are also evident. Diggy, Malcolm's close friend, frequently used clipping and flippant slang, often in humorous or sarcastic contexts. Slang tended to express solidarity and social defiance, reinforcing confident and bold personalities to express casualness. Jib, Malcolm’s close friend, used a mix of imitative and flippant slang to ease tension or mock authority, showing a relaxed and humorous communication style. Slang usage demonstrates how standard English words acquire new meanings in youth discourse. Dom, a local drug dealer, used more aggressive or dominant slang, particularly in the flippant category. His dialogue is dense with AAVE-based slang, asserting street credibility and power, particularly during power assertions and confrontational dialogue. Frequent use of "straight up" and "get the fuck off" serves to emphasize authenticity and dominance within social hierarchies. This pattern reflects how slang functions as a tool for establishing and maintaining social positioning. IDEAS, Vol. 13, No. 2, December 2025 ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) 3637 The context in which certain types of slang are used is also significant. For example, fresh and creative slang is predominantly found in scenes where characters are expressing excitement, friendship, shared interests, group solidarity, or humorous scenes, such as during social gatherings or highlighting playful camaraderie. Flippant slang, on the other hand, tends to emerge in confrontational exchanges, where characters use humor or sarcasm to diffuse tension or assert their position. The character used this slang to reflect heightened emotion and challenge opposing viewpoints. Imitative slang is often employed in moments of mimicry or jest, reflecting the characters' relationships and social dynamics. Characters employ standard English words with altered meanings to reaffirm group identity through culturally shared language. Acronyms and clipping are prevalent in casual dialogue, particularly in fast-paced conversations, underscoring their role in urban youth language as a means of efficient communication. Most of the slang terms identified in Dope are rooted in African American Vernacular English (AAVE), a fact that has been overlooked in previous studies. The use of slang such as 'dawg', 'nigga', and 'gotta' reflects the distinctive features of AAVE. This linguistic variation is not just informal; it is a culturally rich dialect with its own rules, used to strengthen community bonds and contest dominant norms. The use of AAVE-based slang in this film helps to emphasize its cultural authenticity; however, it also raises questions about representation and stereotypes. To determine exact data, researchers use online dictionaries. Urban Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, and Dictionary.com. As a reference to categories slang terms. However, in this study, the author does not present the entirety of the data analysis results, but instead selects data that is considered to represent each type. Discussion Types and Meaning of Slang Words Following a thorough analysis of the data, slang in the Dope movie has been classified into five distinct categories, as outlined by Allan and Burridge's theory: fresh and creative, flippant, imitative, acronym, and clipping. These classifications reflect the variety and richness of slang words used by the characters. The characters in Dope utilize slang not only as a means of expression but also as a tool for social interaction, emotional emphasis, group solidarity, and informal bonding. Hanifa Fildza Ghassani, Otong Setiawan Djuharie, Toneng Listiani Slang Words Used in Dope Movie 3638 Fresh and Creative The ‘fresh and creative' is defined by the presence of slang words that contribute to a new vocabulary, cleverness, imagination, and informal variety. These words can be contemporary or historical, yet unfamiliar to the general population. These expressions frequently carry cultural, emotional and generational nuances, representing how language evolves to meet the communicative needs of a specific group. From a sociolinguistic perspective, Eble (2004) emphasizes that youth language, especially slang, serves as a means of expressing identity, and resisting authority. Moreover, Mesthrie (2009) posit that linguistic choices actively construct social identities and in-group affiliations. The following examples analyses how 'fresh and creative' slang not just as informal vocabulary but as a strategic tool for managing relationships and asserting solidarity. The present study will analyses the fresh and creative types as depicted in the movie. Data 38 Dom : They killed an American working with them niggas in Yemen. De’Andre : Man, he was a terrorist, dawg. So, it's like set trippin'. Dom : You can't decide to be a Blood and then get mad if the Crips try to kill you and shit. Dawg’ shows how language changes and how communities create new words. The use of the word “dawg” reflects creativity in creating a more familiar and informal term. According to Merriam-Webster, ‘dawg’ in slang means ‘man,’ ‘buddy,’ or ‘dude’; it is used primarily as a familiar form of address. This word is often used in the context of hip-hop culture and among young people within AAVE and hip-hop-influenced speech to convey friendship. From a cultural standpoint, the use of dawg reinforces shared cultural knowledge and social bonds within African American youth communities In this context, De’Andre uses ‘dawg’ as a greeting that shows familiarity and reflects the creativity of urban society. This dialogue demonstrates that the slang term is used as a means of addressing or calling his interlocutors during the conversation. In the dialogue, De' Andre employs the slang term 'dawg' to refer to the maintenance of their friendship bond, despite contradicting Dom's opinion. This approach serves to prevent the political discourse from devolving into personal conflict, thereby underscoring the fact that, despite their divergent views, all parties remain friends. Data 47 Voice : I just asked you if you had my lunch. Malcolm : Yeah. Yeah, you're right. You're right. Malcolm : Uh, your lunch. It's right here. I'm looking at it right now. Voice : Coolio. IDEAS, Vol. 13, No. 2, December 2025 ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) 3639 In the dialogue, Voice uses the word “Coolio” to express satisfaction that Malcolm has confirmed the existence of the package containing drugs in his school bag. The word ‘Coolio’ belongs to the fresh and creative type of slang because it is a unique, innovative, and indirect form of expression derived from a standard word, although it is inspired by the word ‘cool’. ‘Coolio’ means the same as awesome/cool/swag. It is used as a way to express when something is remarkable in a more subtle way, akin to saying ‘cool,’ which gives a playful and stylish effect. “Coolio” reflects the commodification of Black cultural expression terms originating from AAVE are stylized for broader pop-cultural use. In this context, the Voice uses ‘Coolio’ to express approval or satisfaction with Malcolm's response that has confirmed the existence of ‘lunch’ (which is code for drugs). The use of ‘Coolio’ gives the impression that the speaker is satisfied, but it is delivered in a stylized and creative way. Through the use of this slang, Voice attempts to make the interaction with Malcolm smoother and less threatening, despite the conversation's serious context. Data 1 Malcolm : It’s like a complicated math equation. Mom : So, one day we're gonna buy things with numbers from a math equation? Malcolm : Dope, right? In the dialogue, Malcolm explains the concept of digital currency, a modern technology that is considered sophisticated and cool. ‘Dope’ means drugs, according to Cambridge Dictionary. However, in the evolution of slang, it has been reclaimed within AAVE and hip-hop culture to mean ‘cool,’ ‘great,’ or ‘amazing.’ ‘Dope’ reflects the casual, trendy language style of young people, especially within hip-hop culture, as they creatively reclaim a word with negative connotations and transform its meaning into something positive. In this context, Malcolm uses the term 'dope' to express his admiration for modern technological developments, particularly the application of mathematical principles to digital transactions. The conversation between the child and mother becomes lighter and less formal as a result. The word 'dope' shapes group identity and creates an informal and creative atmosphere in everyday communication. While Malcolm’s slang aligns with his cultural identity, there's potential for audiences unfamiliar with AAVE to misread his informality as lack of seriousness. Flippant The term 'flippant' is defined as a form of slang where the word's use differs from its literal meaning. The classification of a slang word as 'flippant' is determined by its composition, which consists of more than two words and does not have any relationship with its denotative meaning or have a new meaning distinct from the original words. Hanifa Fildza Ghassani, Otong Setiawan Djuharie, Toneng Listiani Slang Words Used in Dope Movie 3640 Data 10 Bug : Shoe program. Turn around. Bug : Let me see what the fuck you working with. The slang word “shoe program” is classified as flippant because it does not contain a denotative meaning or the real meaning. In this instance, the term 'Shoe Program' does not denote a literal program related to shoes. In the given context, however, the term is used in a slang sense, referring to the act of appropriating shoes from others. In the dialogue, Bug uses the word “program” to refer to the robbery operation. Bug and his gang steal shoe from the school hallway, targeting Malcolm, Jib and Diggy among others. From a cultural perspective, this finding reflects the satirical reuse of formal language in AAVE speech communities, which serves to reveal their attempts to assert dominance. In this context, the phrase 'Shoe program' is a term employed for mockery, or to deprive someone of their property; that is to say, it is an insult. The utterance of the term is indicative of Bug's superior attitude, which has the effect of undermining the interlocutor and adding to the impression that Bug is treating the interlocutor with a lack of respect. Data 24 Bug’s crew: Get on the ground, bitch-ass nigga. Diggy : Get the fuck off me! Jib : Malcolm! Jib : Get off us! Malcolm! Bug : Stay the fuck down, nigga. The word “get the fuck off” belongs to the flippant type of slang because it contains crude, vulgar, and emotional words added to reinforce the command aggressively. The phrase uses the word ‘fuck’ as an intensifier, but not in a literal sense, but to strengthen the expression of anger or rejection. This kind of usage is characteristic of flippant slang, as it serves to create an impression of being offensive and rude but also full of attitude. In this context, Malcolm and friends, Diggy and Jib, are attacked and robbed by Bug’s gang. Diggy’s response, “get the fuck off”, suggests that she is being physically attacked or restrained and is trying to fight off Bug’s crew. Based on the context of the dialogue, Diggy is showing his anger and frustration towards the situation in which he and his friends were attacked. This is Diggy's way of asking the person who bullied him to get away. These words convey panic and tension. IDEAS, Vol. 13, No. 2, December 2025 ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) 3641 Data 28 Dom : I know they got in! That’s my point. This nigga talking to me and telling me what he can’t let me do! Like I give a fuck. Now if I let that slide, we have what they call a slippery slope. (to the Bouncer) You know what a slippery slope is, nigga? In the context of the dialogue, the phrase “slippery slope” refers to a situation where something is smooth and slick, and the slope represents an inclined surface or gradient. “Slippery slope” used idiomatically to describe a problem that can quickly deteriorate or get out of control. “Slippery slope” can be used to convey a nuanced perspective while engaging the audience. Furthermore, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, idiomatic expressions such as 'slippery slope' often have meanings that are not immediately apparent from the individual words, emphasizing the importance of context in understanding their meaning. Because the meaning is different from the literal meaning, it belongs to the flippant type of slang. In this context, the use of “slippery slope” reflects Dom’s impression of the potential risk or danger associated with a decision or action. Dom sarcastically uses this phrase to express feelings with what he perceives to be a demeaning manner of treatment. Dom's efforts to present himself as a resolute and principled leader are accompanied by a concurrent discourse, delivered to others, regarding the social dominance he upholds. Imitative The term 'imitative slang words' is defined as a word that is derived from the English language, but which is used in a manner that is different from standard English. This type of slang term includes expressions that have been around previously, but whose meaning has changed significantly from the original. This objective can be accomplished through two distinct processes: either by employing a standard English word in a new context or by combining two existing words to form a new word. Data 22 Malcolm : We're not going to a drug dealer's birthday party. That's-- You're trippin' Jib : We're in our senior year, bitches. Okay? The term “trippin’’ belongs to the imitative type of slang because it is a form that imitates the standard verb structure (tripping) but is given a new meaning in the slang context. Tripping means tripping or losing balance. However, in slang, the word is often adapted from its standard form and given a figurative sense, such as acting silly, unreasonable, or excessively. Words from formal or standard language Hanifa Fildza Ghassani, Otong Setiawan Djuharie, Toneng Listiani Slang Words Used in Dope Movie 3642 are adapted into slang with a distorted or expanded meaning, without necessarily changing their form drastically. In AAVE, the term "trippin'" has evolved in meaning, no longer referring to a physical loss of balance but rather to irrational behavior or an exaggerated emotional response. The word "trippin'" is a common feature of the language used by Black youth, particularly within the context of hip-hop and comedy. It is characterized by its expressiveness and flexibility, and it functions as a shield against interpersonal tension. This analysis demonstrates that AAVE slang is not merely casual, but it still risks misinterpretation when not understood within its cultural context. In this context, Malcolm uses it to indicate that Jib is thinking in a nonsensical or overthought way. In the dialogue, Malcolm, Jib, and Diggy have just met Dom on the street and invited Malcolm to his birthday party at the Verse Club. Jib is highly enthusiastic and attempts to persuade Malcolm to attend the party; however, Malcolm declines, considering the idea to be risky. In the context of the dialogue, Malcolm uses ‘trippin’ to reject Jib's idea as crazy and excessive. This word is a more subtle alternative to using direct, harsh words, but it is still effective in communicating Malcolm's rejection of a proposal that he considers irrational. This shows how slang can be used to express emotions while maintaining a close friendship. Data 27 Dom : 'Cause I can't have you back-talkin' me in front of my niggas... without at least fuckin' your ass up. You feel me? Bouncer : You don't have to do that. Dom : I kinda do though. I don't want to. It's my birthday and shit. But there's principles to this shit, and I'm a principled man. The word ‘kinda’ belongs to the imitative type because it is derived from the phrase ‘kind of’, from standard English but used more informally in everyday conversation, and often used by young or urban age groups. The use of casual language in tense situations is a common strategy in street-based African- American Vernacular English (AAVE), serving to control tone and perception without losing control. This is consistent with Green (2014) documentation of systematic patterns of sound change in AAVE, which show that community speakers actively participate in linguistic innovation rather than passively adopting Standard English forms. In the context of the dialogue, Dom used ‘kinda’ to keep the conversation from being too harsh in his statements. In this context, Dom admits that he feels compelled to act, but by using ‘kinda’, he conveys that he does not want to overdo it. IDEAS, Vol. 13, No. 2, December 2025 ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) 3643 Data 19 Dom : Nineties also gave us MC Hammer, Vanilla Ice and Fresh Prince. Malcolm : Ok, not saying it was all great. But you gotta admit Summertime is a classic. Dom : What’s your name In the dialogue, as explained above, imitative slang words are classified by combining two different words to make a new word. By combining two standard English words into a more casual phrase, this transformation exemplifies the imitative nature of slang. The word “gotta” is short for ‘got to’, meaning ‘have to’. The word 'gotta' reflects the phonological simplification often found in spoken African-American Vernacular English (AAVE), where efficiency and rhythm are emphasized. Although it is considered 'incorrect' in standard English, it serves as a linguistic glue in communication between peers. In this context, “gotta” is an informal form of “go to” or “have got to” used to make conversations more flowing and relaxed. It is usually used in the context of casual, everyday conversation and to reduce the stiffness in communication. These slang words can also make it easier for speakers to communicate in a more relaxed and casual manner, particularly among friends or in informal settings. The use of informal contractions, such as ‘gotta,’ helps create a conversational tone that encourages openness and ease among speakers. Thus, ‘gotta’ serves to facilitate more relaxed and familiar communication between individuals, creating a more informal atmosphere in conversation. Acronym The term ‘acronym’ is defined as a word formed by combining the first letter or syllable of each word in a phrase, or by using the initials of several words or syllables to create a new, single word. When acronyms are used in the context of slang, it functions as informal language that is common in everyday conversation but avoided in formal writing and speaking. Data 14 Bug : Hey-hey! My nigga, my G. The word ‘G’ or ‘my-G’ belongs to the acronym-type slang category because ‘G’ stands for ‘gangster’ or ‘gangsta’. Although ‘G’ is taken as an acronymic form and used in informal conversations as a nickname. The characteristics of acronyms are evident, as one letter, ‘G’, represents the whole word, creating a communication efficiency typical of slang usage. Based on the context of the dialogue, Bug uses ‘my-G’ as a way of addressing and a substitute for formal names or designations. The use of ‘My-G’ indicates a close relationship and solidarity between the speakers. The word ‘My’ in front of Hanifa Fildza Ghassani, Otong Setiawan Djuharie, Toneng Listiani Slang Words Used in Dope Movie 3644 the ‘G’ reinforces a sense of belonging and emotional closeness, suggesting that Bug considers his interlocutor as part of his social circle as well. Data 48 Dom: I'm in County right now. I don't know who the fuck called you. There are two possibilities. Either the motherfucker in the El Camino is POPO. As soon as you give him the package, he gon' arrest you. Or that motherfucker's the snitch. In that case, he'll take the package, kill you. The slang term ‘POPO’ belongs to the acronym type, as it is derived from the reduplication of ‘PO’, which refers to a Police Officer. In this context, ‘POPO’ is to create a term that is easier to pronounce and more relaxed compared to saying ‘police officer’ in full. Slang forms of use that originate from official abbreviations but are transformed into distinctive terms and used informally still fall into this category. Based on the context of the dialogue, Dom used ‘POPO’ to give Malcolm a serious warning about the possibility that the person on El Camino is an undercover police officer. The use of ‘POPO’ instead of ‘police’ indicates that Dom speaks in the context of street knowledge and employs street language familiar to his community to strengthen solidarity within the group. Clipping The term ‘clipping’ is defined as the process of deleting some parts of a word while retaining the same meaning as the original word. Clipping is a type of informal slang. It's a shortened word that makes speech and writing easier or quicker. It involves cutting out some parts of a longer word. This is a way for people to express themselves quickly and creatively. Data 7 Diggy : I was watching Justin Bieber the other night and I got a little moist. Jib : Yeah? Diggy : So maybe Jib : That's just because he's a little ho. Diggy : That's true. The term ‘Ho’ in the dialogue is an example of clipping-type slang because it comes from the longer form ‘whore,’ which means a person, and especially a woman who has multiple sexual partners. The clipping process occurs when part of the word is removed; in this case, only the word ‘Ho’ is retained from ‘whore’ while still maintaining the same meaning. The slang makes the term more concise and easier to use in casual or quick conversations, especially in the context of pop culture and street slang. IDEAS, Vol. 13, No. 2, December 2025 ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) 3645 Based on the context of the dialogue, the word ‘Ho’ used in this slang creates a relaxed atmosphere, even though it contains mockery, because all parties understand the context as a joke. In addition, Jib uses the term ‘Ho’ to make fun of Justin Bieber, implying that he is not masculine or is too excessive in his behaviour. This is verbal abuse masquerading as a joke. Data 4 Dom : hey, little nigga, you coming in? Yo, it’s cool. You coming in, Malcolm? Nigga, come on Malcolm : yeah The slang word ‘nigga’ includes a clipped form of the original word ‘nigger’, omitting the final phoneme ‘-er’ to form a more informal version. Although the original word is highly offensive, ‘nigga’ is often used in informal contexts, especially among the African-American community, as a term of friendship or greeting, although its use remains controversial. Although the original word (nigger) has a highly offensive and racist history, the slang form ‘nigga’ has been reclaimed in some communities as an expression of solidarity, identity, or intimacy, depending on the context in which it is used. However, this usage promotes identity within the group. It also touches on the risk of representation. For audiences unfamiliar with African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) cultural politics, 'nigga' can be interpreted as reinforcing stereotypes of hyper-masculinity, aggression, and immorality. The use of ‘nigga’ is used to address directly in an informal tone or to call out in place of the word ‘you.’ Dom uses ‘nigga’ to address Malcolm informally to show that they come from the same social background. Where Dom tries to reduce social distance and make Malcolm feel comfortable joining their group. The use of this term reinforces solidarity between characters and reflects the language norms of a particular social group. Data 41 Nakia : Ok then. Me neither, ‘cause I’m going to college. I gotta get my GED first. Malcolm : That’s why you were studying for? In the dialogue, the word 'cause' is classified as a clipping slang form. This is because it is a shortened form of the word 'because', where some of the letters have been removed, yet the original meaning is retained. This definition provides a detailed description of the process by which the word 'because' changes to 'cause' while retaining its original meaning. The formation of this clipping form is standard in informal speech, especially in spoken dialogue or in urban/pop culture communities. Hanifa Fildza Ghassani, Otong Setiawan Djuharie, Toneng Listiani Slang Words Used in Dope Movie 3646 In the context, the term 'cause' is used by Nakia to signify the underlying reasons and motivations that serve to substantiate her pursuit of enhanced educational opportunities and a more secure future. The use of 'cause' in this instance is indicative of a relaxed, casual style of speech, which serves to encourage a more friendly and intimate atmosphere in communication, particularly among friends or individuals who share a close relationship. This term is most often employed in informal, everyday conversation. The use of the word 'cause' in this instance reflects not only an informal style of language, but also serves as an expressive tool in the conveyance of social meaning and the personal identity of the character. Conclusion The results of this study reveal various forms of slang used in the dialogue of the movie Dope. The study identified 91 slang words in the film 'Dope', which were categorized according to Allan and Burridge's (2006) theory. The results of the study indicate that the most frequently used terms are flippant (26), fresh and creative (25), mimic (22), clipping (14), and acronym (4). This finding reveals that the characters employ innovative linguistic techniques to facilitate communication. The use of slang in conversation can serve to foster intimacy by reflecting seriousness, sarcasm, mockery and humor of the characters in the movie. Slang is used as an alternative vocabulary and for group identity and emotional expression among the African-American teenagers in the film. Although the study offers insight into the use of slang in contemporary media representations of urban youth culture, it is essential to acknowledge some of its limitations. The analysis is limited to a single film, which may not be representative of the language used by African-American youth. The study relies on Allan and Burridge's (2006) classification system; however, this may not capture all the nuances of contemporary slang, especially in the digital and social media contexts, were language changes rapidly. While the study's scope is necessarily limited, it provides a foundation for future research that can build upon these insights to develop more comprehensive theories of slang usage in contemporary media and society. IDEAS, Vol. 13, No. 2, December 2025 ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) 3647 References Allan, Keith, and Kate Burridge. 2006. Forbidden Words: Taboo and the Censoring of Language. New York: Cambridge University Press. Burdova , Bc Veronika, and Mgr Radek Vogel. 2009. “Student Slang.” Masaryk University In Brno. Cambridge Dictionary. 2021. “Slippery Slope.” https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/slippery-slope. Chomsky, Noam. 2000. New Horizons in the Study of Language and Mind. Cambridge University Press. Creswell, John W., and J. David Creswell. 2018. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. Fifth. SAGE. Dewi, P., & Sari, D. (2022). Perception of Digital Storytelling in Overcoming Fear for Speaking English through Interdisciplinary Project of Gender Issues. IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Literature, 10(2), 1635 – 1642. doi: https://doi.org/10.24256/ideas.v10i2.2748 Dictionary. n.d. Retrieved July 1, 2025. https://www.dictionary.com/e/slang/. Dula, Gloria Stefan E. 2024. “An Analysis Of Slang Found In The Movie Entitle Dumb And Dumber.” Proceedings Literates, Linguistics, Literature, Culture, and Arts 128–36. Eble, Connie. 2004. “Slang.” Pp. 375–86 in Language in the USA: Themes for the Twenty-first Century, edited by E. Finegan and J. R. Rickford. Cambridge University Press. Famuwiya, Rick. 2015. Dope. United States: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. Green, Jonathan. 2014. The Vulgar Tongue: Green’s History of Slang. Oxford University Press. Holmes, Janet. 2013. An Introduction to Sociolinguistics. fourth. Routledge. Keraf, Gorys. 2010. Diksi Dan Gaya Bahasa. 17th ed. Jakarta: PT Gramedia Pustaka Utama. Krippendorff, Klaus. 2004. Content Analysis: An Introduction To Its Methodology. second. Sage. Mattiello, Elisa. 2008. An Introduction to English Slang. Italy: Polimetrica. Merriam-Webster. n.d. “Dictionary.” Retrieved July 1, 2025. https://www.merriam- webster.com/slang. Mesthrie, R. 2009. Introducing Sociolinguistics. Edinburgh University Press. Miles, Matthew B., and A. Michael Huberman. 1994. Qualitative Data Analyis. Second. US of America: SAGE. Munthe, Presly Rosalina, M. Bahri Arifin, and Ririn Setyowati. 2023. “An Analysis of Slang Words In IT Movies.” Ilmu Budaya: Jurnal Bahasa, Sastra, Seni, Dan Budaya 7(2):627–36. Rachman, Tia Novana. 2020. “Slang Expressions in Subtitle Text of The Three Hanifa Fildza Ghassani, Otong Setiawan Djuharie, Toneng Listiani Slang Words Used in Dope Movie 3648 Transformers Movie. ‘The Transformers’, ‘Transformers: Revenge of The Fallen’, and ‘Transformers: Dark of The Moon.’” State of Islamic University Sunan Gunung Djati, Bandung. Urban Dictionary. n.d. Retrieved July 1, 2025. https://www.urbandictionary.com/. Wardhaugh, Ronald, and Janet M. Fuller. 2015. An Introduction To Sociolinguistics. seventh. Wiley Blackwell. Zainuddin, A. H. A., Masruddin, M., & Thayyib, M. (2024). Multilingualism in Bugis Language Context. FOSTER: Journal of English Language Teaching, 5(1), 19- 27. Click or tap here to enter text.