The Top 5 Gen Z Slang Terms You Need to Know

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Every now and then, a new piece of slang leaves the rest of us feeling a bit out of touch. Think of the classic dad trying to be cool with terms like “getting jiggy” from the movie “10 Things I Hate About You.

It’s a funny reminder of how parents often struggle to stay up-to-date with their kids’ ever-evolving language. For parents who want to understand what their kids are saying (or just get a good laugh), this guide is for you. Let’s step into the colorful and ever-changing world of Gen Z slang.

Don’t Get Lost in Translation

Using slightly outdated slang can have the same effect. “Dope” rarely shows up in young people’s conversations, so incorporating this word into your compliments in front of your daughter’s friends is sure to make everyone cringe.

Dope

A father intentionally misworded this phrase after hearing his daughter and friends describe multiple things and experiences as “‘totes presh.'” That means something is or was “totally precious.”

Totes

Saying the word “hashtag” is as uncomfortable as mistakenly typing the word when you want to use the character. A dad suggests using this constantly. Eat a good meal? Say, “That food was good, hashtag tasty,” and enjoy your offspring’s horror.

Hashtag

This still sees mileage online, with people using the phrase for purchases they want. If you’re going to the movies, tell your daughter, “I’m gonna cop these tickets.”

Cop

Mix and Match

You do not need to keep to one word. Incorporating multiple terms in your sentences will drive your kid up the wall.

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