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Gen Z slang is known for being bold, creative and often grammatically unconventional. This can make Gen Z slang hard to follow for outsiders. Slang is an informal type of language frequently used in casual conversations, especially among younger people, but it is generally avoided in formal settings. 

According to “Encyclopedia Britannica,” slang in the past often emerged from cultural tensions, incorporating a sharp wit that sometimes conveyed hostility. Today, however, slang is usually a fun and inventive way for people to express themselves uniquely.  

Amy Pettit is a Speech and Theatre professor at Grand View University. Pettit explains that slang fosters community.  

“It creates culture and a sense of belonging. Young people have their own slang, and it marks them, defines them,” Pettit said.  

Slang has been a part of language for centuries, but with the advent of social media, it has become more widespread than ever. Content can now go viral almost instantly, thanks to rapid technological changes. 

“I think [slang] changes because of music culture or pop culture. Maybe someone who is seen as cool uses it, and then others follow. It just spreads,” Pettit said. 

Pettit shared her perspective on slang’s lasting presence. 

“I think this is nothing new. Young people have always had slang, and while parents may not always like it, kids still use it. It’s a sign of independence,” Pettit said.  

The Evolution of Slang 

Slang is an evolving part of language, which has continuously changed for thousands of years. Before social and mass media, slang spread primarily through word of mouth, sometimes taking years to reach different areas. Today, millions can hear the same phrase simultaneously, creating near-instantaneous waves of new language trends. 

African American Vernacular English (AAVE) 

African American Vernacular English (AAVE) is a distinct dialect within the English language, often associated with African American communities. AAVE’s origins are debated, but it has profoundly influenced modern slang. According to Alison Maciejewski Cortez, a writer at Lingoda, some widely used slang terms stem from AAVE. Here are a few examples: 

– ‘Finna’ – about to do something   

– ‘Hood’ – neighborhood   

– ‘Paper’ – money   

– ‘Hella’ – very   

Cortez emphasizes the importance of recognizing AAVE as a legitimate form of speech. 

“AAVE is a valid form of speech formed in African American communities. It is important to validate AAVE and undo the generations of stigma associated with its use,” Cortez said. 

Gen Z Slang 

Josh Thomas is a freshman basketball player at GVU who is a fan of slang. 

“It’s short, it makes things easier—new generation, new words,” Thomas said.  

He and his friends even invent their own slang from time to time.   

“If you say something dumb in a dumb situation, it’s ‘guud’—spelled g-u-u-d,” Thomas said.   

Thomas also gave examples of words his friends use in new ways.  

“I say ‘calm’ a lot. Like, if someone has nice shoes, I’ll say, ‘Yeah, those are calm,’ meaning I like them,” Thomas said.    

Then there’s “merch,” which they often use when someone says something silly or when they just want to respond without a specific meaning.  Often, Gen Z takes familiar words and gives them new twists that resonate uniquely within their group. 

Slang is an ever-evolving phenomenon, shaped by technology, culture and each new generation. Thanks to mass media, slang terms can spread globally in seconds. It’s a linguistic evolution that reflects the changing times, connecting people across generations and cultures.  

Ight homie, imma head out. I’m lowkey dead and could use a solid bed rot.