Abstract:American slang, which is widely used in American daily life, is an informal colloquial variety of English. This paper firstly introduces the definition and significance of American slang, the definition and classification of rhetorical devices and The Big Bang Theory. Secondly, from six aspects, namely, humor and novelty, creating vividness, conciseness and efficiency, expressing emotions, avoiding taboo and conveying cultural connotation, it analyzes the rhetorical features of American slang in The Big Bang Theory. Through concept explanation, literature methodology and case-study, this paper aims to investigate the rhetorical features of American slang, make people know more about the characteristics of American people, cultures and society, and effectively promote cross-cultural communication.

Key words: American slang; rhetorical features; The Big Bang Theory

CONTENTS

Abstract

中文摘要

1. Introduction1

2. Literature Review...1

2.1 Definition and Significance of American Slang

2.2 Definition and Classification of Rhetorical Devices

2.3 Introduction to The Big Bang Theory 

3. Rhetorical Features of American Slang in The Big Bang Theory..5

  3.1 Humor and Novelty

3.2 Creating Vividness

3.3 Conciseness and Efficiency

3.4 Expressing Emotions

3.5 Avoiding Taboo

3.6 Conveying Cultural Connotation

4. Conclusion12

Bibliography.13

Acknowledgements..14