The 1980s saw rapid advances in communication technology like the telephone and early computers which influenced language changes. Margaret Thatcher was prime minister and privatized many industries, leading to job losses in sectors like mining. Popular culture and music from artists like Michael Jackson and Duran Duran introduced new slang terms through media like television and music, with words developing both positive and negative connotations.

1. 1980’s

2.  One of the main influences on language change
throughout the 1980’s was the rapid advances in
communication, 50% of UK household had a
telephone meaning they could be in contact with
people from all parts of the world.
 In 1985, Microsoft invented windows (not the
transparent glass imbedded in a wall!) and 1989 the
World Wide Web was invented, this meant
publication could be viewed world wide, so this
created a whole new semantic field surrounding
computers and the internet.

3.  1979-1990 saw Margaret Thatcher PM of Great
Britain
 Thatcher privatised many of the state owned
businesses.
 Deindustrialisation led to structural
unemployment as the dynamics of the economy
changed, careers in physical trades such as mining
suffered and academic jobs increased.
Unemployment went from 1.5M to 2.5Mil within a
year
 Skilled workers were left jobless and the need for
education and academic qualifications increased.

4.  Michael Jackson
 Blondie
 David Bowie
 Wham!
 Robert Palmer
 Soft Cell
 Duran Duran
 Spandau Ballet
Billie Jean
Heart of Glass
Changes
Club Tropicana
Addicted to Love
Tainted Love
Rio
Gold

6.  The majority of slang introduced in the 80’s
was a result of the media. Mainly through TV
and music.
 Positive Connotations
 Phat, awesome, wicked, bad, fresh
 Negative connotations
 Fag, queer, dweeb, lame
 Others
 Chill, crack, do the nasty, new wave