Quick question: Wouldn't it be cool to fit in and be one among the trendier current generation? And no, this has nothing to do with your looks or the way you dress. You can simply shine in any social interaction with the way you carry yourself and how well you adapt to the current trends. Speaking of current trends, did you know that English slang words play a major role in it?
The world around us is constantly changing, and most of these changes have to do with evolving trends. One of the things that constantly evolve is the way we speak and here is where slang words come into the picture. In today's world, our day-to-day social interactions are majorly influenced by memes – to the extent that it has become a way of expressing our thoughts and emotions. And hence, slang words have become a means to communicate with others on a deeper level and keep our connections alive.
Have we left you all intrigued to know more about the popular slang words that are commonly used among GenZ? Well, let's not wait any further!
What are slang words?
English slang words are informal words and expressions that are used among a particular group of people, often with a specific meaning they attach to it. They are often created and used to express shared experiences, emotions, and attitudes. The majority of English slang words vary regionally and generationally, and they may be used in place of standard English words or phrases to create a sense of identity and belonging within a particular group. While slang words can be fun to use, it is essential to be aware of their context and usage to avoid miscommunication and offence.
Understanding and learning English slang words can help us better communicate and connect with others, especially in an informal setting. English slang words are something that's commonly used in social media platforms like Instagram, as well as music and pop culture. Since they are used on a day-to-day basis, they quickly become outdated and tons of new slang words keep coming up. Therefore, keeping up with the most recent ones can help us understand the conversations happening around us and participate in them without feeling lost.
Moreover, slang words can help express emotions and attitudes that are difficult to convey otherwise, making the communication sound light and breezy. Additionally, knowing slang words can help us navigate and succeed in specific industries or professions that use jargon or slang.
Learning English slang words can be a fun and engaging way to stay up-to-date with modern trends and culture. It can help us connect with people who share similar interests and experiences and show that we are in touch with the latest social developments.
Commonly used English slang words
We get it. Adapting to the GenZ lifestyle ain't that easy, especially if it keeps changing constantly.
Here is a quick guide on some of the commonly used English slang and phrases:
| Slang word/phrase | Meaning | Usage |
|
Lit |
Describes something fun and exciting |
Yesterday’s party was lit! |
|
Shook |
To be surprised or shocked |
I was shook when I heard the news. |
|
Lowkey |
Being discreet |
The wedding will be a lowkey affair. |
|
Highkey |
Doing something for everyone to know |
Highkey that’s an amazing movie. |
|
Woke |
Being aware of various societal issues |
He’s so woke. |
|
Basic |
Boring, average, or unoriginal |
The design was too basic. |
|
Savage |
Describes something badass |
Her response was straight up savage. |
|
Flex |
To show off |
He was flexing his photography skills. |
|
Mood |
Describes when something is relatable or accurately describes how you feel |
Coffee during a rainy day is such a mood. |
|
Ghost |
To suddenly stop communicating with someone |
He ghosted me after the third date. |
|
Sus |
Describes something suspicious |
She has been acting pretty sus all morning. |
|
Wasted |
To be highly intoxicated |
My brother was completely wasted after the fourth drink. |
|
Deceased |
Used to describe how we feel when something is too funny |
Hahahaha that’s hilarious, I am deceased! |
|
IYKYK |
If You Know You Know |
Our trip to Vegas was unforgettable. IYKYK! |
|
YOLO |
You Only Live Once |
Let’s spend all this money now, cos YOLO! |
|
FOMO |
Fear Of Missing Out |
I’m feeling major FOMO that I cannot be there for your wedding. |
|
NGL |
Not Gonna Lie |
NGL the movie was bad! |
|
OOTD |
Outfit Of The Day |
Dressed up after so long! #ootd. |
|
TBT |
Throwback Thursday |
#TBT. |
|
GOAT |
Greatest Of All Times |
Mohammed Ali is the GOAT |
|
MCM |
Man Crush Monday |
Idris Elba is definitely my #MCM! |
|
WCW |
Woman Crush Wednesday |
Jennifer Aniston is my forever #WCW! |
|
Hangry |
Hungry and angry |
He’s hangry because he didn’t eat a snack. |
|
Cringe |
To feel icky |
That song is so cringe. |
|
Spill the tea |
To gossip about something |
We need to know what happened after we left… spill the tea! |
|
Slide into the DMs |
To flirt via messages on social media |
He slid into her DMs. |
|
On Fleek |
To be perfect |
Her fashion sense is on fleek |
|
Caught in 4k |
To get caught red-handed |
He got caught in 4k! |
Apart from making you feel included, learning new English slang words can help you simplify your communication with the people around you. This can help you a lot to keep up with the evolving trends and even survive in a new country.
If you're planning to study abroad this year, more such information can help you prepare yourself for your journey!
FAQs:
Are all English slang words appropriate to use in any situation?
No, some slang words may be considered offensive or inappropriate in certain contexts. It is important to understand the context and audience before using slang words.
How can I learn English slang words?
One way to learn English slang words is to immerse yourself in popular culture and social media. You can also use online resources and dictionaries dedicated to slang words.
Can English slang words vary by region or culture?
Yes, slang words can vary widely by region, culture, and even age group. It's important to understand the context and audience to avoid miscommunication.
Why do people use slang words?
People use slang words to connect with others, express themselves, and create a sense of belonging. Slang words can also be used to show familiarity and informality in conversation.
Are slang words considered proper English?
No, slang words are informal and not typically considered part of proper English. They are used more in casual conversations rather than formal or professional settings.
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