Why do some slang words replace ordinary words even when standard words already exist?

Slang words often replace standard vocabulary because they provide a way to express concepts with greater emotional intensity, humor, or social critique than ordinary language allows. While standard words exist for many concepts, slang is frequently employed to freshen the language, making it more pungent, picturesque, or striking.12

The primary reasons for this substitution include:

• Emotional and Social Expression: Slang often reflects the attitudes of a specific subculture toward the values of the dominant culture. By using novel terms, speakers can project hostility, ridicule, affection, or group solidarity.341
• Incongruity and Satire: Effective slang often relies on the superimposition of images that are incongruous with established values. This creates a "shock" or satirical effect that standard language lacks.52
• Need for New Nuance: Some slang is essential because it captures specific shades of meaning for which no standard equivalent exists. Conversely, other slang arises simply from a desire to find new, more vivid terms for common objects or experiences, such as parts of the body, food, or drink.15
• Group Identity: Using unique terminology helps bolster self-image and promotes identification with an in-group, distinguishing its members from the dominant culture.14