Hey! 1st I found the slang posts and omg these are gonna be a life saver! I decided to start working on multiple fanfics with Hobie as the main character! I love him! I saw a post (I lost it hence why I'm asking!) that said Hobie wouldn't say Oi but would instead say smth like Ayo or smth along those lines? I feel like Oi is more recognizable as used in the same context as Yo so Im wondering which would fit better!
I'm sorry if this is a dumb question!
I’m not too sure who said Hobie wouldn’t use “Oi” because he absolutely would!
The Online Etymology Dictionary describes “Oi” as: 1962, vulgar or working class pronunciation of “hoy” a call or shout to attract attention.
“Oi” is mostly associated with Cockney speakers and the working class. It’s very commonly used in the UK, plus it’s a subgenre of punk rock. Oi! (The subgenre) originated in the late 1970’s and sought to unite working-class youth, including punks and skinheads. Though it’s seen as more of a skinhead genre these days, the first few Oi! bands were mostly punk rockers or people who didn’t fit either the punk or skinhead label.
I think that “ayo”, on the other hand, is more African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) slang than British slang. A quick google search tells me it is short for the Yoruba name meaning “joy”, but it is possible that the word also came about by simply mixing the words “hey” and “yo”. Slang is fun like that.
Personally, I think “oi” can be more loud and abrasive, whereas “ayo” can be more welcoming, so you can pick which one you think would apply more in a situation. Though of course, how you say a word can really affect its meaning. For example, if you want a more welcoming “oi”, simply double it up to an “oi oi”, such as in the phrase “Oi oi saveloy!” which is a fun, friendly and cheeky way of greeting someone, especially if you’re wanting to draw their attention. “Oi” has many uses: a greeting, an attention drawer or an interjection.
I think Hobie would be more likely to use “Oi”, based on its origins and how common its use is in the UK, but I wouldn’t say he wouldn’t also use “Ayo” if the situation called for it.
As per usual, I’m not an expert, I’m just happy to share what I know.
