From Social Slang to Standard Lexicon: A Corpus-Based Analysis of the Mainstream Adoption of New Verbs in English

Abstract

Language is a dynamic system that continuously evolves to reflect social, technological, and cultural changes. One of the most intriguing aspects of linguistic evolution is the transition of slang verbs into standard English, a process shaped by multiple factors, including digital media, cultural relevance, grammatical adaptability, and institutional validation. This study employs a corpus-based linguistic analysis to examine how verbs originating in informal speech and online discourse become widely accepted in mainstream language. Through a detailed analysis of selected case studies—including to Google, to binge-watch, to ghost, and to unfriend—this research explores the mechanisms by which new verbs gain traction, shift from niche to general usage, and ultimately achieve formal recognition in dictionaries and academic discourse. Findings indicate that digital communication platforms accelerate lexical diffusion, while words that describe emerging behaviors are more likely to endure and become embedded in everyday speech. The study also highlights the role of grammatical integration in determining the success of slang verbs, as well as the influence of institutional endorsement in legitimizing linguistic change. By mapping the trajectory of slang verbs from informal origins to standardized lexicon, this research contributes to the broader understanding of language evolution in the digital age and provides a framework for analyzing future trends in lexical innovation and standardization.