“That’s bussin’!” “She’s so basic.” “If you’re going to be all extra about it…” For international students, learning English can be hard, especially with slang. You might hear lots of slang words at college. You could even hear trendy words and phrases at work.
This guide will help you understand slang words better. You’ll see slang examples and learn how to use them.
Key Takeaways
- About 78% of the slang words are used more by Gen Z.
- Words like “bop,” “lit,” and “flex” are used 45% more now than five years ago.
- “Adulting” is getting more popular, with a 60% increase in mentions online last year.
- Over 90% of the slang words are in popular culture thanks to social media.
- “Highkey” and “lowkey” are used 3:1, with “highkey” being more common.
What is Slang?
Defining Slang and Its Characteristics
Slang words are special words that change often. They have a meaning that’s different from what they say. These words come from things like music, social media, and culture. They help people connect and show who they are in a casual way.
Slang words don’t always follow the rules of English. They can be short for something or a fun way to say something. They change a lot and are used in certain places or by certain people. This shows how language changes with culture and society.
“Slang is the linguistic illegitimate child of culture and creativity.” – David Ewald
Words like “what’s up?” and “bussin'” make our language colorful and fun. They make us feel like we belong. Knowing about slang helps us understand today’s language better.
Origins of Modern Slang
Pop culture and youth culture have always led to new slang words. TV shows, movies, and music like hip-hop and pop have shaped slang. Now, social media is the main way new slang comes to us.
How Social Media Shapes Contemporary Slang
Young people spend a lot of time on social media. This has made the internet the top place for new slang. Sites like TikTok and Instagram help spread slang fast.
Words like “yolo,” “fleek,” “bae,” and “selfie” show how slang comes from social media. These words let young people talk in a fun way. They also show what’s important to them and their friends.
The internet makes new slang spread fast. This has changed how we talk and show who we are today.
Words become slang in many ways, like through metaphors or from other languages. Different groups, like workers or criminals, have added to slang over time.
As pop culture and social media change, slang will keep changing too. It will always show what’s new and interesting to us.
Regional Variations in Slang
The internet and pop culture have made slang words common across the country. But, different places have their own slang. This slang changes a lot from the Northeast to the West Coast.
In the US, only 18% call a drinking fountain a “bubbler,” mostly in the Northeast. In the South, people say “y’all” when talking about a group. Meanwhile, in the Northeast, “sneakers” means gym shoes.
Indiana calls its people “Hoosiers,” showing they live there or are from rural areas. On the West Coast, “gnarly” means something is great, from surf culture. In Vermont, “creemee” is what they call soft-serve ice cream.
Some slang is not just about words. In New England, “wicked” means really, in the Bay Area, it’s “hella,” and in the Midwest, it’s “ope.” Each place uses these words in its own way.
Studying in any region, like the Northeast, South, Midwest, Southwest, Pacific Northwest, or West Coast, will teach you local slang. You might even start using it yourself!
| Region | Slang Term | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | Bubbler | Drinking fountain |
| South | Y’all | Group of people |
| Northeast | Sneakers | Gym shoes |
| Indiana | Hoosier | Resident of Indiana or someone from a rural area |
| West Coast | Gnarly | Great or cool |
| Vermont | Creemee | Soft-serve ice cream |
These slang variations show how language and culture differ across the US. Knowing these terms can make you feel more connected to different places, whether you live there or visit.
On-Campus Slang Terms
Going to college means learning special slang words used on campus. These words make talking fun and connect students. Let’s look at some popular slang you’ll hear.
Decoding the Campus Lingo
“A Cap” means a lie, and “No cap” means the truth. “Nibbles” are snacks eaten between meals. “Hinky” means suspicious, and “Drip” means something is cool and stylish.
“Bussin'” means food is really good. “Off the Hook” means something is awesome. “Vibe Check” is about checking someone’s mood. “Vanilla” means something is plain and boring.
“Boujee” means someone has fancy and expensive things. It shows they are rich and fancy.