Talk the Talk

Preventing Generational Disconnects

It is important for parents and guardians to understand social media lingo and slang because it helps them effectively communicate with their children, stay aware of potential online risks, and monitor for red flags like cyberbullying or manipulative behaviour. Understanding this language allows parents to better relate to their kids, foster trust, and address online trends or challenges that could impact their child’s mental health and well-being. It also helps prevent generational disconnects, promoting open and supportive conversations about digital habits and behaviours.

Here are 30 slang terms young people frequently use on social media platforms today:

No.TermDefinitionExample
1GOATGreatest of All Time“Serena Williams is the GOAT of tennis.”
2No CapNo lie, being truthful“That party was amazing, no cap.”
3BetAgreement or confirmation“You’ll be there at 8? Bet.”
4SimpSomeone who does too much for someone they like“He bought her flowers every day, such a simp.”
5WYAWhere You At?“WYA? We’re waiting for you!”
6FlexTo show off“He’s always flexing his new sneakers.”
7Vibe CheckAssessing the mood or atmosphere“This place totally passes the vibe check.”
8YeetTo throw something with force, or express excitement“He yeeted the ball across the field.”
9Bussin’Something that’s really good or tasty“This pizza is bussin’!”
10GhostingEnding all communication without explanation“She ghosted me after we hung out twice.”
11SaltyBeing upset or bitter about something small“He’s salty about losing the game.”
12ThirstyDesperate for attention, especially romantic“He’s so thirsty in the comments section.”
13CloutInfluence or fame, often on social media“She’s only doing it for clout.”
14ReceiptsProof or evidence, often screenshots“I’ve got receipts to show what they really said.”
15FireSomething excellent or impressive“That new song is fire!”
16TeaGossip or juicy information“I’ve got some tea to spill about what happened last night.”
17StanA fan who is excessively devoted to someone“I stan Beyoncé so hard.”
18CapA lie, or something untrue“That story you told is all cap.”
19FinnaAbout to, or going to do something“I’m finna leave in a minute.”
20LitSomething exciting or fun“The concert last night was lit.”
21SUSSuspicious or shady behaviour“That guy seems kinda sus.”
22Low-KeySomething subtle or quiet“I’m low-key excited for the weekend.”
23High-KeySomething obvious or done openly“I’m high-key obsessed with that TV show.”
24Main Character EnergyActing as though you’re the centre of attention“She’s got main character energy with that outfit.”
25SlayTo do something exceptionally well“She slayed her presentation at work.”
26ExtraOver the top, dramatic behaviour“He’s being so extra about his birthday.”
27MoodSomething that is relatable to your current situation“Sleeping in is such a mood right now.”
28AFShort for “As F***,” used to emphasize something“It’s cold AF outside.”
29ShipTo support a romantic pairing“I totally ship those two characters.”
30IYKYK“If You Know, You Know,” for insider knowledge“That concert was legendary last night, IYKYK.”