English is a dynamic language, always evolving, and navigating English slang can be intimidating, especially for new learners just getting acquainted with this global language. But there’s no need to worry! By familiarizing yourself with Gen Z slang and seeing how it’s used in everyday life, you’ll gain the confidence to incorporate these terms into your conversations seamlessly.
Top 20 Gen Z Slang Terms
Familiarizing yourself with Gen Z slang can enhance your ability to converse in contemporary English and strengthen your connection with today’s youth. Let’s dive into some widely-used Gen Z terms, uncover their meanings, and learn how to incorporate them into conversation with examples.
1. Slay (succeed/dominate)
Meaning: To perform exceptionally well or achieve something impressive.
Example: She totally slayed her presentation in front of the board members.
2. Lit (exciting/awesome)
Meaning: Used to describe something thrilling, enjoyable, or an activity that’s loads of fun.
Example: This party is lit! The music is great and everyone is having a good time.
3. Bet (sure/agreement)
Meaning: Similar to “okay,” it’s used to express agreement or confirm something.
Example: You want to grab pizza after class? – Bet!
4. Bop (catchy song)
Meaning: Refers to a song that’s lively, catchy, and makes you want to dance.
Example: This new tune by my favorite artist is such a bop; I can’t stop listening to it!
5. Mood (current emotional state/relatable situation)
Meaning: Used to convey your current emotional state or to describe a situation that feels relatable.
Example: Feeling stressed about exams? That’s a big mood.
6. Salty (bitter/mildly upset)
Meaning: Used to describe someone who is feeling irritated, bitter, or slightly upset.
Example: I lost the game to my friend, so I’m just a little salty about it.
7. Snatched (looking flawless/amazing)
Meaning: To describe someone or something that appears incredibly stylish and polished.
Example: Her outfit for the party was snatched; everyone couldn’t stop talking about it.
8. Flex (boast/show off)
Meaning: To brag or showcase something, often related to possessions, skills, or achievements.
Example: He spent the entire day flexing his new car on social media.
9. Tea (gossip/information)
Meaning: Gen Z term for gossip, juicy tidbits, or secrets.
Example: Spill the tea! What happened in class?
10. Shook (deeply surprised/stunned)
Meaning: Used to convey a strong feeling of surprise or shock, often with a negative connotation.
Example: I was shook when I saw my final score on the English exam.
11. Simp (someone who does too much for someone they like)
Meaning: Refers to a person who goes out of their way to show excessive attention or do anything to please someone they have a crush on, often without mutual feelings in return.
Example: Don’t be a simp. She’s clearly not interested in you.
12. Cap (lie/untruth)
Meaning: A shorthand for “capping,” used to denote lying or stating something untrue.
Example: He claimed he won the lottery, but I think he’s capping.
13. Ghost (disappear suddenly)
Meaning: To suddenly cut off all communication with someone, often in online interactions like texting.
Example: He ghosted me after our first date—so rude!
14. Vibe (atmosphere/feeling)
Meaning: Refers to the overall atmosphere, energy, or feeling associated with a place, person, or situation.
Example: The coffee shop has a really chill vibe; it’s perfect for studying.
15. GOAT (Greatest of All Time)
Meaning: An acronym that stands for “Greatest of All Time,” used to describe someone who is the best in their field.
Example: With her record-breaking number of Academy Award nominations, Meryl Streep is the GOAT of acting!
16. Extra (excessive/over-the-top)
Meaning: Used to characterize something or someone as overly dramatic or excessive.
Example: Her outfit for the party was extra with all the sequins and feathers.
17. Stan (obsessive fan)
Meaning: Refers to a very dedicated, and sometimes obsessive, fan of a celebrity, musician, or public figure.
Example: She’s a total stan for that K-pop group; she knows all their songs and even their dance routines!
18. Low-key (secretly/somewhat)
Meaning: Describes doing something secretly or with less intensity, or keeping something understated.
Example: Low-key, I’m freaking out about this presentation. I hope I do well.
19. High-key (openly/very)
Meaning: Indicates something done openly, with high intensity, or to a strong degree.
Example: High-key, I’m obsessed with this new artist; I can’t wait to see them live!
20. No Cap (telling the truth/seriously)
Meaning: Used to emphasize that you are speaking truthfully or being serious about something.
Example: This film is one of the best action movies I’ve ever seen, no cap!
English is the most widely spoken language worldwide, so it’s no surprise that this global language is always evolving and will keep evolving for generations. Keeping up with these changes and familiarizing yourself with popular Gen Z slang can help you communicate naturally with today’s youth and enhance your speaking skills. It also enables you to adapt to various social groups and settings.
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