If you’re over 30 or have a Gen Z kid, you’ve probably heard a few phrases that have left you scratching your head, trying to decipher and wondering what on earth has happened to the English language. A new dialect has emerged—shorter, weirder, and written for the digital meme generation—and we’ve been left trying to decode it. Here’s a guide to Gen Z speak: read it and weep.
1. “That’s Fire”
When Gen Z calls something “fire,” it means it’s awesome. It can literally be used to describe anything (except the opposite sex; there’s another word for that; read on) and means they are pretty happy and excited about something. In the “olden days,” we called something “hot,” and we’re not sure why it needed an upgrade.
2. “Bussin’”
If something is “bussin’,” it’s really, really good. This word is mostly used to describe food, so if your kid says their dinner is “bussing,” you can breathe a sigh of relief. The term “buss” originated from African American English and means to burst or break open, so ” bussing” can be translated to bursting with flavor or enjoyment.
3. “No Cap”
This is Gen Z’s way to emphasize that they’re being totally honest. “Cap” is slang for “lie,” so this next-generation pearl can be translated to “no lie” or “I’m dead serious.” While this phrase is meant to underscore the truth of a statement, we can’t help but wonder why a slang term is employed to express honesty.
4. “Bad”
The word bad actually means good in Gen Z speak. Used to describe the opposite sex, calling someone “bad” means you think they are attractive (or hot, if you will). We have no idea why the script has been flipped on bad, but when a guy calls a girl a “baddie,” he thinks she “slays” with her looks and style.
5. “Bet”
“Bet,” or worse, “aright bet,” is Gen Z’s way of agreeing with or confirming something. It’s a versatile little word that can mean anything from “I agree” to “I’m sure” and “I’m coming home.” It seems a bit out of place in everyday conversation, and in our context, placing a bet meant putting a wager on something.
6. “Lit”
Many Gen Zers will argue that “Lit” is now cringe and uncool, and they don’t say it. But you’ve undoubtedly heard it, and to clarify, if something is “lit,” it’s not on fire but cool, exciting, or fun. From parties to concerts, anything that’s “lit” is worth your time and probably warrants a post on Snap
7. “Flex”
When Gen Z calls something a “flex” or accuses someone of a “flex,” they’re not talking about showing off their muscles but their achievements or possessions, like their “fit.” Which, by the way, is short for outfit. They love to shorten everything.
8. “Finesse”
Gen Z uses “finesse” to describe completing something smoothly and skillfully. It’s a colorful way to describe someone who knows how to handle a situation. It can also make it sound like someone is plotting something sneaky.
9. “Stan”
To “stan” something means to be an obsessive fan. It was born from the Eminem song “Stan.” While it’s a creative term to show deep admiration, it’s also a bit over-the-top. It’s often used to show you’re obsessed with your favorite celebrity, a look, or a hobby.
10. “Rizz”
When Gen Z talks about “rizz,” they’re referring to someone’s charm or charisma, especially when it comes to flirting and dating. The term is short for “charisma” and means you can pull. If someone’s got rizz, they’re a smooth operator, that’s for sure.
11. “Facts”
In Gen Z speak, when someone drops “facts,” they’re giving their stamp of approval to something. It’s like saying, “You’re absolutely right,” but with more punch. This term is their way of asserting the truth or agreeing, so if you hear “facts” in response to something, it’s basically a verbal high-five.
12. “Glazing”
“Glazing” in Gen Z terms is when someone goes overboard with compliments. If someone’s “glazing,” they’re laying the praise on thick, which Gen Z loves to do in the most over-the-top way in social media comments. It’s a playful way to flatter someone, but it may not be genuine.
13. “Sigma”
“What the sigma?” is a Gen Z twist on “What the heck?” It’s used to express confusion or surprise in an exaggerated way. Substituting “sigma” for “heck” adds a layer of irony or meme-like humor. It can also mean someone is acting in a way that exudes confidence and independence and doesn’t need the approval of others
14. “Word”
When Gen Z finishes a sentence or responds to a text with “word,” they’re in emphatic agreement. It’s a way to validate what someone else is saying and that they agree. This one is short, sharp, and to the point.
15. “Valid”
If something is “valid” in Gen Z lingo, it’s considered legitimate, worthy, or acceptable. So, when someone says, “That’s valid,” they’re giving a nod to the truth or relevance of a statement or action. It’s a major thumbs-up.
16. “Tight”
In Gen Z-speak, if someone says a person is “tight,” they are describing them as annoyed or in a bad mood. This term is often used to describe parents or authority figures like teachers and is a shorter version of uptight. It’s not a compliment; they’re basically saying this person’s vibe is not chill.