Russian and English Slang in Georgian. An Evaluation Study

Abstract

This study analyzes the sociolinguistic patterns of English and Russian slang usage in contemporary Georgian among speakers aged 15–35. The introduction outlines slang’s role in language change and social identity, especially within the context of globalization and post-Soviet political history. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach: quantitative analysis is based on survey data from 102 participants, while qualitative analysis applies thematic coding to open-ended responses. Results show that English slang is more frequently used by the younger segment of the cohort, while Russian slang tends to be used by those in the higher end of the age range. Respondents from Tbilisi report greater use of English borrowings, while those born in other regions more often use Russian-origin slang. Gender differences are modest, with male respondents slightly more frequent users of both varieties. Participants’ attitudes vary: some view slang as part of natural linguistic evolution, while others express concern over its effect on linguistic identity. The study reveals layered dynamics of language preference in contemporary Georgia.