Have you ever had a conversation with someone from Generation Z and they bring up an unfamiliar word and you immediately rush to Urban Dictionary? Don’t worry, I’ve taken it upon myself to make a basic guide that I hope can help you decode some of the most commonly used Gen Z slang!
1. (And that’s on) Periodt!
Not to be confused with the punctuation mark, this term—which stems from African American Vernacular English (AAVE)—is typically used to add emphasis on a previous point or statement. It is usually used at the end of the sentence. The phrase “and that’s on” is usually added before it to place more emphasis.
Example: “BTS’ latest album BE is a literal masterpiece, and that’s on periodt!”
2. (Spill the) Tea
This Gen Z slang also stems from AAVE. This term is commonly used to refer to hot gossip. It is also usually used among friends to mean interesting news.
Example: “What did I miss yesterday, spill all the tea!”
3. Bruh
This term can be used in almost every situation. However, it is usually used to express disbelief or shock.
Example: “Bruh, did you see the news last night?”
4. Lowkey - Highkey
Lowkey is a term that is usually said when saying a person’s underlying thoughts or feelings. It is also commonly used when saying an unpopular opinion. Highkey, on the other hand, is the complete opposite. It is used when talking about things that the person strongly believes in.
Examples: “Okay but lowkey, you killed that.”
“I highkey think that this competition is rigged.”
5. Woke
Coined from AAVE, this term is used to describe someone who is alert in social issues. This is typically used to describe someone that is socially and politically aware of topics such as discrimination and inequality.
Example: “I am such a big fan of RM, not only is he a great rapper, but he is also extremely woke.”
6. No cap
Another expression that has African American roots, this term literally means “no lie.” With cap meaning lie, this term is usually used along with a harsh truth. Example: “No cap, you look really bad today.”
7. Stan
Originating from Eminem’s song entitled Stan, which was dedicated to his biggest fan whose name was Stan. This term typically refers to next-level fans.
Example: “I really want to stan Stray Kids, they are so funny to watch.”
8. Mood
This term is similar to the term “same”. “Mood” is an expression that is typically used to emphasize how relatable something is to you. It is used to show how the speaker can relate to the previous point or statement.
Example: “I’m so hungry I could literally eat anything.”
“Mood.”
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