Struggling to keep up with Gen Z slang? You’re not alone. Adults often misuse or overuse these trendy terms, leading to awkward moments or communication gaps. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you avoid common pitfalls and connect with younger generations:
- Outdated Slang: Using terms like "slay" or "queen", which Gen Z now finds cringey.
- Wrong Context: Dropping slang in formal settings where it doesn’t belong.
- Overdoing It: Overusing trendy words, making interactions feel forced or insincere.
- Misunderstanding Terms: Misusing words like "mid" (mediocre) or "rizz" (charisma).
Quick Fixes:
- Stay updated by observing slang on TikTok or Gen Z influencers.
- Use slang sparingly and only in casual settings.
- Learn the meaning and cultural origins of terms before using them.
Key takeaway: Slang is about connection, not trying too hard. Use it naturally, keep it relevant, and focus on authentic communication. Ready to dive deeper? Let’s explore the do’s and don’ts of mastering Gen Z lingo.
TikTok teacher breaks down Gen Z slang terms
5 Mistakes Adults Make With Gen Z Slang
Adults often stumble when trying to use Gen Z slang, which highlights the communication gap between generations.
Using Outdated Slang
One of the biggest mistakes is holding onto slang that's no longer relevant. Trends move fast, and what was cool a few months ago can quickly become "cringey." A TikTok video from January 2024 by Liv Kaplan (@livkaplan) showed her Gen Alpha sister Brooklyn pointing out outdated terms [2]:
| Outdated Term | Current Alternative | Why It Changed |
|---|---|---|
| "Slay" | Avoided | "That was literally five months ago" |
| "BFF" | "BSF" | "Best friend" has taken over "best friends forever" |
| "Phatty" | "Gyat" | Evolved body-related slang |
| "Queen" | Avoided | Seen as overused and tired |
"As far as what my sister revealed, sad to say as a 21-year-old… I felt old! It is so interesting to me what slang gets popular and stays popular by age demographic and why." - Liv Kaplan [2]
Using Slang in the Wrong Context
Dropping casual Gen Z slang in formal or professional settings can fall flat. Workplace culture often demands more neutral language, and misusing slang in these environments might come across as unprofessional [1]. This is where "code switching" comes into play - adapting your language to fit the audience while still communicating effectively.
Overdoing It With Slang
Trying too hard to use slang can feel fake and work against you. To strike the right balance:
- Be selective: Use slang occasionally to add flavor, not overwhelm the conversation.
- Stay genuine: Focus on being yourself rather than trying to fit in.
- Read the room: Adjust your language based on who you're talking to.
- Keep up, but don’t overdo it: Stay aware of trends without forcing every new term into your vocabulary.
Gen Z places a high value on authenticity. Overusing slang or forcing it into conversations can come across as insincere. Instead, use it naturally and only when it feels appropriate [3].
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How to Use Gen Z Slang Correctly
Now that we've covered common pitfalls, let's dive into how to use Gen Z slang effectively to connect across generations.
Stay Updated on New Terms
To use Gen Z slang confidently, it's important to keep up with the latest terms. Spend time in the digital spaces where these expressions are born and evolve. A great resource is the Gen Z Slang Directory (genzslanglist.com), which provides updated definitions, cultural context, and examples of how to use the terms. Here's what it offers:
| Feature | What It Provides |
|---|---|
| Term Definitions | Clear explanations of slang meanings |
| Cultural Insights | Context behind the terms |
| Usage Examples | Practical ways to use the slang |
| Category Filters | Easy browsing by topics like gaming or lifestyle |
Once you're familiar with the terms, take the next step - observe how they're used in real life.
Learn From Gen Z Firsthand
The best way to understand Gen Z slang is by seeing it in action. Social media is a goldmine for this. Platforms like TikTok, Reddit, and Discord are where slang trends emerge and spread. Here are some ways to tune in:
- Follow Gen Z influencers who frequently use trending slang.
- Join online communities centered around Gen Z topics.
- Keep an eye on TikTok hashtags and viral trends.
- Chat with younger colleagues, friends, or family members to hear these terms naturally.
"When we try to meet them where they are, we can further bridge gaps and inspire meaningful conversations!" - Crisis Text Line [5]
By observing and engaging, you'll pick up not just the words but also the right tone and context for using them.
Use Slang Sparingly and Authentically
The key to using Gen Z slang is moderation. Overusing it can come off as forced or inauthentic. For example, while McDonald's cleverly used millennial slang in their "Breakfast All Day" campaign, Burger King's attempt at slang-filled tweets fell flat with many.
Here are some tips to keep your usage natural:
- Know your audience: Use slang primarily with younger generations.
- Be yourself: Stick to terms that feel natural in your communication style.
- Stay informed: Regularly check what's trending to avoid outdated phrases.
- Consider the setting: Save slang for informal or casual conversations.
"But remember, what's fire today might be cheugy tomorrow. So keep your ears open, embrace the ever-changing lingo, and don't be afraid to ask the younger generation for a quick vocab lesson." - Chris Allmer, Copywriter [4]
The goal isn't to overhaul your vocabulary. Instead, aim to use a few terms thoughtfully to connect with younger generations while staying true to your own voice.
Must-Know Gen Z Slang Terms
Let’s break down some popular Gen Z slang and where it comes from. Understanding these terms can help bridge generational gaps and make communication more relatable.
Common Terms Explained
Here’s a quick guide to some frequently used Gen Z slang:
| Category | Term | Meaning | Example Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approval & Agreement | Ate | Performed exceptionally well | She ate that performance – there was an encore. |
| Bussin' | Extremely good | This burrito is bussin'! I'm definitely coming back here. | |
| Fire | Incredible or thrilling | That waterslide is fire! | |
| Authenticity | No cap | Telling the truth | I actually went to class today. No cap. |
| Sus | Suspicious | Are you hiding something? You've been acting super sus lately. | |
| Social Dynamics | Rizz | Charisma or flirting skills | That boy has so much rizz, he hasn't been single since elementary school. |
| Touch grass | Disconnect or face reality | After spending the weekend playing video games, his friends said it was time to touch grass. |
These definitions and examples come from current research into Gen Z language trends.
It’s worth noting that some terms are often misunderstood by older generations. For instance, "mid" refers to something mediocre, while "delulu" (short for delusional) describes someone with unrealistic expectations. Using these words incorrectly can make you seem out of touch.
Where These Terms Come From
To use Gen Z slang effectively, it helps to know its origins. Many of these terms are rooted in AAVE (African American Vernacular English) and hip-hop culture.
"Gen Z's lingo might be difficult to understand, but there's a reason for that." – Jessica Rett, Los Angeles Times [7]
For example, 'Periodt' comes from Southern Black gay slang, while 'Finna' has roots in Black English. Social media platforms, especially TikTok, play a huge role in spreading and popularizing these terms [6]. Words like "yassified" and "chat" have recently gained traction thanks to these platforms. Understanding this background adds depth to how you use these expressions.
Conclusion: Better Communication Across Ages
Key Takeaways
Bridging the generational gap requires effort and understanding. When it comes to Gen Z slang, the key is to use it naturally and sparingly - overdoing it can come across as trying too hard.
Fast Company points out that Gen Zers often recognize that older coworkers might need time to get comfortable with trending terms in the workplace [8].
Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate Gen Z communication:
| Aspect | Do | Don’t |
|---|---|---|
| Learning | Engage with Gen Z to stay updated on slang | Depend on outdated online sources |
| Usage | Use slang occasionally in casual settings | Force it into professional contexts |
| Context | Understand and respect cultural origins | Use terms without grasping their meaning |
| Adaptation | Keep up with changing trends | Stick to expressions that are no longer relevant |
These tips aim to support clear and relatable communication across generations.
Practical Steps
Want to stay connected with Gen Z and build stronger communication skills? Here are a few actionable ideas:
- Follow Gen Z influencers on platforms like TikTok and Discord to learn about new language trends [3].
"Mastering Gen Z slang is an ongoing journey, but it's a worthwhile one for anyone seeking to connect with and understand this influential generation. By immersing yourself in their culture, language, and digital spaces, you can build meaningful relationships, create impactful marketing campaigns, and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of communication." [3]