20 Millennial Sayings That Are Still Popular
Millennials have their own way with words, and many phrases have stuck around. These expressions are part of everyday language now. See how many you still use.
1. “Adulting”
Who knew being an adult could come with its very own verb? Millennials coined “adulting” as a way to describe the basic responsibilities of growing up—like paying bills, grocery shopping, and wondering why there’s never enough coffee. Using it doesn’t mean you’re doing adulthood well, just that you’re doing it at all, which is already impressive.
2. “Throwing Shade”
If you’ve ever side-eyed someone while making a sly remark, congrats—you’ve thrown shade. Popularized by drag culture but embraced by millennials, this phrase perfectly sums up the art of subtle insult. If someone’s dissing you but acting like they’re not? Yep, that’s some shade right there.
3. “Netflix and Chill”
What started as a seemingly innocent suggestion to watch Netflix quickly became a euphemism for something… a bit more intimate. Though its meaning is now universally known, “Netflix and Chill” continues to be thrown around in conversations, even when you’re actually just talking about a cozy night in.
4. “Slay”
No one can slay quite like a millennial hyping up their best friend. Whether you’re rocking an outfit, acing a presentation, or just existing fabulously, “slay” is the ultimate term of empowerment. It’s been part of the cultural lexicon for years, and it’s still here for anyone who’s doing life in style.
Follow us for more of these articles.
5. “I Can’t Even”
Sometimes life is just too overwhelming, and words aren’t enough to describe it. Enter: “I can’t even.” This phrase encapsulates that feeling when something is so unbelievable—good or bad—that you simply can’t deal. Whether you’re awestruck or just over it, “I can’t even” says it all.
6. “Sorry Not Sorry”
The quintessential passive-aggressive apology, “sorry not sorry” allows you to express faux remorse while standing your ground. It’s the perfect way to admit that, no, you’re not really that sorry for eating the last slice of pizza or blocking someone’s calls for three days.
Follow us for more of these articles.
7. “Squad Goals”
Before there were “#goals” for everything, millennials were all about “squad goals.” This phrase celebrates the ultimate friend group, the one that everyone aspires to be a part of. Whether you and your friends were more like Friends or The Avengers, your squad was it, and you made sure everyone knew.
8. “Yasss”
“Yasss” is the more enthusiastic, stretched-out cousin of “yes.” Whether you’re rooting for someone who just crushed their goals or watching Beyoncé do literally anything, “yasss” is the only acceptable way to show your approval. Bonus points if there’s an extra “s” or two for added enthusiasm.
Follow us for more of these articles.
9. “Basic”
The term “basic” is a gentle dig at those who embrace mainstream trends a little too hard—think pumpkin spice lattes, UGG boots, and Instagram captions with song lyrics. But being basic isn’t always bad; sometimes, a pumpkin spice latte is exactly what you need. And yes, the term “basic” is still, ironically, not basic.
10. “Bae”
Ah, “bae”—before anyone else. Millennials took this term of endearment and ran with it, using it to describe significant others, crushes, and even their love for food. “Pizza is bae” might sound silly, but for millennials, it’s just being honest.
Follow us for more of these articles.
11. “Bye Felicia”
This dismissive phrase became a millennial go-to for shutting down unwanted attention or letting someone know you’re over it. Originating from the movie Friday, it exploded in popularity thanks to internet culture, and it’s still used today when someone is no longer worth your time or energy.
12. “No Chill”
When someone’s doing the most—whether it’s blowing up your phone or overreacting in public—they clearly have “no chill.” Millennials use this phrase to describe those moments when people can’t seem to keep it together. On the flip side, having “chill” is a coveted state of zen most of us can only aspire to.
Follow us for more of these articles.
13. “Epic Fail”
Sometimes, you don’t just fail—you fail epically. Whether you trip in public or accidentally reply-all to an email, an “epic fail” is the best way to describe those cringe-worthy moments that everyone notices. It’s a little self-deprecating but always funny in hindsight.
14. “FOMO”
“Fear of Missing Out” might be universal, but millennials gave it the catchy abbreviation that’s still thrown around today. Whether you missed a party, skipped a concert, or just saw someone’s amazing vacation on Instagram, the FOMO is real, and it’s not going away any time soon.
Follow us for more of these articles.
15. “It Me”
Sometimes you see a meme or a gif that just gets you, and “it me” is the only proper response. Millennials love using this phrase to point out their own quirks or embarrassing truths. When life is a chaotic mess but you see a picture of a cat drinking coffee and glaring at the world? Yep, it me.
16. “On Fleek”
This term might have been overused, but “on fleek” still holds a special place in our hearts. Whether you’re talking about eyebrows, outfits, or even a perfectly made latte, something that’s “on fleek” is flawless. It may have faded from everyday convo, but it still pops up when you’re feeling particularly sharp.
Follow us for more of these articles.
17. “TBT”
#ThrowbackThursday, or TBT for short, is the original Instagram nostalgia trigger. Every Thursday, millennials—and now everyone—post their favorite childhood pics, cringe-worthy fashion choices, or moments from their youth. It’s a weekly reminder that no one really escapes their awkward phase.
18. “I’m Dead”
No, this doesn’t refer to literal death—it’s just a way to say something is so funny, shocking, or amazing that you’ve metaphorically died. When something makes you laugh so hard you can’t breathe? Yep, you’re dead. The phrase is still used across social media when a joke just hits too hard.
Follow us for more of these articles.
19. “Feels”
“Feels” became the perfect millennial shorthand for expressing an emotional overload. Whether you’re watching a tear-jerking movie or scrolling through a touching post online, the “feels” will hit you. It’s a quicker, cooler way of saying something has gotten you in your emotional bag.
20. “Living My Best Life”
This phrase perfectly encapsulates the millennial mantra: despite whatever chaos or confusion may come, you’re doing your best and loving it. Whether you’re lounging at home, traveling the world, or simply enjoying a good meal, saying you’re “living your best life” lets everyone know you’ve embraced your moment, whatever that moment may be.
13 Things Millennials Remember About the Early Internet
The early days of the internet were full of unique experiences Millennials won’t forget. From dial-up sounds to chat rooms, here are 13 things only Millennials will remember about being online.
13 Things Millennials Remember About the Early Internet
13 Popular Gen-Z Hobbies Everyone’s Into Right Now
Gen-Z has brought new life to some hobbies and put their own twist on old ones. From thrifting to digital art, here are 13 pastimes that are capturing their attention today.
13 Popular Gen-Z Hobbies Everyone’s Into Right Now
Like our content? Be sure to follow us!
