Key Takeaways
- 30 GenZ slang terms and what they mean helps you decode everyday digital speech — short, direct, and current.
- Many Gen Z words are flexible: context, tone, and emoji change meaning.
- Using slang boosts casual fluency but use it sparingly in formal contexts.
- Practice by reading captions, watching short videos, and trying lines aloud.
If you’ve ever scrolled through comments, watched a short video, or chatted with a younger friend and felt like you’d landed on another planet, this post is for you.
Here we will explain 30 GenZ slang terms and what they mean, with short definitions, example uses, and tips so you can spot them, say them (if you want), and understand them in real conversations.
Think of this as a friendly decoder for fast, playful language.
30 Gen Z Slang Terms and What They Mean
Cap – What does “Cap” mean
A lie or something untrue.
example: “That story about meeting a movie star? Big cap.”
No cap – What does “No cap” mean
No lie — for real, honestly.
example: “I loved your presentation, no cap.”
Bet – What does “CAP” mean
Agreement or “okay/sure” — can also mean “watch me.”
example: “You coming tonight?” — “Bet.”
Bussin – What does “Bussin” mean
Really delicious or very good.
example: “This pizza is bussin.”
Sus – What does “Sus” mean
Suspicious or sketchy.
example: “He said he forgot, but that’s sus.”
Stan – What does “Stan” mean
An extremely dedicated fan (from Eminem’s song “Stan”).
example: “I totally stan their music.”
Mood – What does “Mood” mean
A relatable feeling or vibe.
example: (sees rainy day) “mood.”
Periodt – What does “Periodt” mean
Adds emphasis — end of story; final.
example: “She’s the best teacher, periodt.”
Lowkey – What does “Lowkey” mean
A mild or secretive feeling — slightly/quietly.
example: “I lowkey like that show.”
Highkey – What does “Highkey” mean
The opposite of lowkey — openly or strongly.
example: “I highkey want dessert.”
GOAT – What does “GOAT” mean
Greatest Of All Time.
example: “She might be the GOAT of the team.”
Flex – What does “Flex” mean
To show off. Can be playful or critical.
example: “That new jacket — big flex.”
Ghosting – What does “Ghosting” mean
Suddenly cutting off communication without explanation.
example: “We went on two dates and then he started ghosting.”
Boujee – What does “Boujee” mean
Short for bourgeois — fancy or high-class in a showy way.
example: “She’s so boujee with her designer coffee.”
Salty – What does “Salty” mean
Bitter, annoyed, or jealous.
example: “He’s salty about losing the game.”
Tea – What does “Tea” mean
Gossip or truth; “spill the tea” = share the gossip.
example: “Come on, spill the tea — what happened?”
Vibes – What does “Vibes” mean
Short for “vibrations” — general feeling or atmosphere.
example: “Cozy cafe vibes today.”
Extra – What does “Extra” mean
Too much — over-the-top behavior.
example: “Bringing five outfits? That’s extra.”
Simp – What does “Simp” mean
Someone who does too much for someone they like (often used jokingly).
example: “He bought her coffee every day — total simp.”
Slay – What does “Slay” mean
To do something very well or look amazing.
example: “She slayed that performance.”
FOMO – What does “FOMO” mean
Fear Of Missing Out — anxiety about being left out.
example: “I have FOMO about the party tonight.”
Fit – What does “Fit” mean
Short for outfit — what someone is wearing.
example: “Nice fit! Where’s the jacket from?”
Snack -What does “Snack” mean
An attractive person — someone who looks good.
example: “He walked in like a snack.”
Woke – What does “Woke” mean
Aware of social issues; originally positive, sometimes used sarcastically.
example: “She’s really woke about environmental issues.”
Yass – What does “Yass” mean
Enthusiastic yes — often elongated (yasss).
example: “You got tickets? Yass!”
Clutch – What does “Clutch” mean
Perfectly timed or very helpful at a crucial moment.
example: “That last-minute goal was clutch.”
Drip – What does “Drip” mean
Stylish clothes or fashion sense; similar to “fit.”
example: “Check his drip.”
Cancel – What does “Cancel” mean
To stop supporting someone publicly for bad behavior (cancel culture).
example: “He posted offensive stuff and got canceled.”
Cheugy – What does “Cheugy” mean
Out of date in a way that’s no longer trendy (used to mock millennial trends).
example: “Those basic items? Kind of cheugy.”
Glow-up – What does “Glow-up” mean
A positive transformation in appearance or confidence.
example: “After the summer, she had a full glow-up.”
How To Use 30 GenZ Slang Terms And What They Mean In Context
When using 30 GenZ slang terms and what they mean, the first rule is to match the tone of your conversation. These expressions work best in informal contexts like group chats, DMs, or social media comments — places where speech feels relaxed and natural. However, they can sound unprofessional or confusing in formal environments. For instance, you wouldn’t say “That report was bussin!” to your manager. Instead, you’d use polite, standard English. To master formal communication and tone, explore our helpful guide on how to write a professional email in English.
Pair with emojis
Another fun and essential way to use 30 GenZ slang terms and what they mean naturally is to pair them with emojis. Emojis add emotion and personality to your sentences, helping clarify intent. For example, “simp 😂” feels friendly and lighthearted, while “simp.” with a period could sound harsh. Emojis work like emotional punctuation in digital English. To balance slang with standard expressions, visit our post on common words and phrases in English for everyday use.
Listen first
Before using 30 GenZ slang terms and what they mean, take time to listen first. Watch how native speakers use slang on social media, YouTube Shorts, or in podcasts. The same slang word can carry different tones or meanings based on context. For example, “extra” can mean “dramatic” or “funny,” depending on the situation. Active listening improves your pronunciation and comprehension. For a list of free, reliable tools to develop your listening skills, check out our How To Learn English For Free (2025 Guide).
Avoid overuse
Slang can make your English sound modern and relatable, but moderation is key. Overusing 30 GenZ slang terms and what they mean might confuse your listener or sound unnatural. Think of slang as a spice, a little enhances the flavor, but too much overwhelms the dish. Combine slang with clear English for a balanced tone.
To improve how you integrate new words naturally, read How To Learn English Quickly.
Tips For Learning 30 GenZ Slang Terms And What They Mean
Social media captions and comment sections are treasure troves for discovering 30 GenZ slang terms and what they mean in real life. Reading them exposes you to authentic use, humor, and phrasing. Follow creators who speak naturally and mix slang with everyday English.
To strengthen your vocabulary for daily communication, visit Common Words And Phrases In English For Everyday Use.
Watch short videos
Short videos like TikToks, Reels, or YouTube Shorts are ideal for hearing how 30 GenZ slang terms and what they mean sound in natural speech. You’ll also see gestures, expressions, and context — all vital for understanding real English.
For structured digital learning, explore Learn English Online, where you’ll find fun, interactive ways to combine entertainment and study.
Practice out loud
Speaking slang aloud helps you gain confidence and get pronunciation right. Repeat words like “That’s sus!” or “She slayed it!” until they feel natural. Practicing rhythm improves your fluency.
For pronunciation exercises, explore How To Improve My English Pronunciation and try out some fun Tongue Twisters To Improve Your English Pronunciation. These activities will make your spoken English smoother and your slang sound authentic.
Keep a slang notebook
A slang notebook is an excellent tool for remembering 30 GenZ slang terms and what they mean. Write down each slang term, its definition, and an example sentence. Add emojis or note the situations where each slang fits best. Over time, you’ll have a personalized slang dictionary.
To further expand your vocabulary and memory techniques, read How To Improve Your English Vocabulary.
Common Mistakes When Using 30 GenZ Slang Terms And What They Mean
One of the biggest mistakes learners make with GenZ slang terms is mixing registers or using slang in formal settings. While slang sounds fun with friends, it’s unsuitable for professional or academic contexts.
To learn how to keep your English polite yet conversational in work environments, explore Business Small Talk For Non-Native English Speakers.
Misreading intent
Certain slang words like “simp,” “extra,” or “salty” can have different tones depending on delivery. Without context, you might misunderstand or offend someone. Before using a slang word, observe how others respond to it. Remember, tone and emojis often change meaning.
To understand emotional nuance better, review our guide on Nouns And Pronouns — Everything You Need To Know, which also explains how personal reference affects tone.
Over-literal translation
Avoid translating slang directly from your native language. GenZ slang terms are deeply tied to culture and humor. For instance, “cap” doesn’t mean “hat” — it means “lie.” Instead of translating word-for-word, focus on the intended message. For a better grasp of contextual English and cross-cultural meaning, explore Learn Travel English to see how English adapts across different situations.
Believing slang is permanent
Slang evolves rapidly. Words like “lit” or “cheugy” can fade within months. Learning 30 GenZ slang terms and what they mean means staying updated by watching current creators, reading modern blogs, and following trends.
For insights into how English constantly changes and why keeping up matters, visit Top 10 Reasons To Learn English In 2024.
Conclusion
Learning 30 GenZ slang terms and what they mean is a fun, useful step toward understanding casual English today. Use these words carefully and they’ll boost your listening and give you quick, friendly ways to connect in casual chats.
Want more practice? Head over to ThoughtsinEng to learn more English with free articles, pronunciation guides, and learning strategies. Check out friendly lessons like How to Learn English for Free (2025 Guide) and How to Improve Your English Vocabulary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “no cap” mean?
“no cap” means no lie or honestly.
How do you use “sus” in a sentence?
“sus” describes something suspicious: “That excuse sounds sus.”
Is it okay for non-Gen Z to use slang?
Yes, in casual settings, but be cautious in formal or professional contexts.
How can I keep up with Gen Z slang?
Follow social media, watch short videos, and read comment sections to see real usage.
What slang should English learners avoid?
Avoid slang that’s offensive or highly contextual; focus on neutral, common words first.
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