17 Gen-Z Phrases That Adults Don’t Get

Gen-Z has its own way of speaking, and it’s full of new words and phrases. These terms might sound confusing to older generations. Let’s break down 17 popular Gen-Z sayings and what they actually mean.

1. “Cheugy”

“Cheugy” is the word Gen-Z uses when something is uncool in a painfully outdated way. Think of those motivational quotes on wooden plaques or that one aunt who’s still saying “girl power” unironically. If it was trendy ten years ago and hasn’t aged well, it’s probably cheugy. And no, if you’re wondering if using the word “cheugy” itself is cheugy, you’re already lost.

2. “Stan”

“Stan” isn’t just short for Stanley anymore. It’s a mash-up of “stalker” and “fan,” inspired by the Eminem song. To “stan” someone means to obsessively support or admire them. If you’re “stanning” a celebrity, you’re not just a fan—you’re ride-or-die for them, knowing every obscure fact about their life. Just try not to be a creepy stan.

3. “Ghosting”

This term takes an old concept and gives it a spooky twist. “Ghosting” is when someone you’re talking to suddenly disappears like a ghost—no messages, no explanation, just poof. It’s a modern form of rejection that’s as frustrating as it is common. Ghosting is the ultimate silent treatment in the digital age.

4. “Cap/No Cap”

If something is “cap,” it’s a lie. If it’s “no cap,” it’s the truth. This slang comes from the idea of capping (or lying) in rap culture. Gen-Z has adopted it as a quick way to call out when someone’s bluffing or being honest. So, if your friend says they can run a mile in under five minutes, you’d probably reply with a skeptical “cap.”

5. “Simp”

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“Simp” started as a term for someone who is overly nice or submissive in hopes of gaining romantic favor, but it’s since evolved. Now, it’s used to describe anyone who goes too far to impress someone, often at the expense of their dignity. If you’re simping, you’re doing too much for someone who isn’t reciprocating. But hey, love makes us do crazy things.

6. “Bet”

“Bet” is the all-purpose response for when you’re down with a plan. Someone asks if you’re up for a night out? “Bet.” It’s like saying “okay” or “you got it” with a little more swagger. Just be careful not to confuse it with an actual wager, unless you’re ready to put your money where your mouth is.

7. “Vibe”

“Vibe” has been around for a while, but Gen-Z has made it their own. It’s not just about a feeling anymore; it’s about an entire mood, an atmosphere, a way of life. If something’s got a “good vibe,” it means it’s resonating on an emotional level. And if someone “kills the vibe,” well, they’re basically the human equivalent of a wet blanket.

8. “Hits Different”

When something “hits different,” it means it has a unique impact or feeling. It’s often used to describe music, food, or experiences that stand out in a special way. That late-night snack after a long day? It just hits different. This phrase is all about those moments when something just feels better than usual.

9. “Lit”

“Lit” means something is amazing, exciting, or fun. It’s been around for a bit, but it’s still going strong in the Gen-Z lexicon. If a party is “lit,” it’s the place to be. If a situation is “lit,” it’s off the charts. Basically, if something’s lit, you want in on it.

10. “Yeet”

“Yeet” is a verb that means to throw something with force or enthusiasm, often in a ridiculous or exaggerated way. It’s also an exclamation used when something is exciting or surprising. If you’re “yeeting” something, you’re not just tossing it—you’re launching it with purpose, often without much thought about where it’ll land.

11. “Slaps”

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When something “slaps,” it means it’s really good, especially music. That new song by your favorite artist? It slaps. It’s the ultimate compliment for anything with a beat that makes you want to move. Slapping isn’t just for faces anymore—it’s for anything that’s got that extra oomph.

12. “Sus”

Short for “suspicious,” “sus” became popular with the rise of the game Among Us, but it’s since spread to everyday language. If someone’s acting sus, they’re doing something that raises eyebrows. Whether it’s a sketchy text or a strange excuse, if it’s sus, it’s not to be trusted.

13. “Big Yikes”

If something’s a little cringy, it’s “yikes.” But if it’s really bad, it’s a “big yikes.” This is the term for those moments when second-hand embarrassment isn’t strong enough. It’s perfect for those times when you witness something so awkward, all you can do is wince and say, “big yikes.”

14. “Finsta”

A “Finsta” is a fake Instagram account where people post their more personal, unfiltered, or humorous content, away from the prying eyes of their regular followers. It’s a combination of “fake” and “Insta.” While your “Rinsta” (real Instagram) is for polished pics and public posts, your Finsta is where you let loose and keep it real.

15. “Flex”

To “flex” means to show off, usually in a way that’s meant to impress others. Whether it’s your new sneakers, a promotion, or just a killer outfit, if you’re flexing, you’re flaunting what you’ve got. Just be careful—too much flexing can quickly turn into being a show-off, and nobody likes that.

16. “Bussin”

If something’s “bussin,” it’s really good, especially food. That meal you just devoured? Bussin. It’s a term that’s used to express how something exceeds expectations in flavor or quality. Bussin isn’t just tasty—it’s next-level deliciousness that demands recognition.

17. “Tea”

“Tea” is all about gossip. If someone’s got the tea, they’ve got the juicy details or the inside scoop. Spilling the tea means sharing that gossip, often with a dramatic flair. Whether it’s about celebrity drama or personal stories, tea is the currency of conversation for those who love to stay in the know.

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