Generation Z (Gen. Z) slang has become a fascinating aspect of modern vocabulary, reflecting the evolving nature of language. This generation’s unique expressions and terms often originate from social media platforms, pop culture and internet trends, quickly spreading and becoming a part of everyday conversation. These slang words and terms influence how we communicate and interact with each other, shaping our interactions with older generations.
A lot of terms can be used as replacements for curse words, for example, “What the sigma?” or “Holy skibidi”. Using these terms are seen as cringe, but that’s the appeal of the joke. Speaking in a high-pitched, nerdy voice while saying these phrases is also a part of the punch line.
Referencing online videos or quoting influencers is a popular thing to do as well. Quoting a viral TikTok or a video is a common occurrence in conversations with younger generations.
People who are older than Gen. Z have trouble understanding the ridiculous phrases used by the youth. This disconnect between generations can be seen in classrooms as well as a normal family dinner. Some teachers find the slang to be disruptive and unfunny; others find it silly and interesting.
Conrad Nichols (he/him), a history teacher at Liberty, expresses his thoughts on brain rot (TikTok slang).
“It’s literally non-stop,” states Nichols. Class can even be interrupted with laughter with mere words from the teachers.
“When we’re going over the French and Indian War,” Nichols explains, “It was fought along the Ohio River Valley. Every time I said Ohio, these kids, mind you, AP students, would not stop laughing.”
He asked the class trying to understand what the laughter was about only for them to respond that it was from TikTok and he shouldn’t worry about it. Nichols, however, finds himself enjoying some of the slang terms and even using them in class with his students.
“So I’ve, like, started saying to kids, you know, when they’re taking a test, I’ll be like, ‘are you cooking or are you cooking?’ It’s a state of being.”
Student slang is difficult to comprehend where it originates and how it came to be. It’s come to a point where even the youth can’t fully comprehend it. Some believe it started from very young children who say it unironically, then TikTokers find it amusing and continue using or saying that phrase for laughs.
Cullen Doyle (she/ her), 11, thinks that TikTok slang is affecting students’ vocabulary.
“Not negatively, per se, but it’s definitely having an effect that isn’t positive,” Doyle states. She believes it certainly isn’t a positive way to expand vocabulary.
Some think otherwise and would say it is affecting kids very negatively. AJ Flynn (he/ him), 11, would say the same. “I think it’s causing kids to not know it’s a joke so they actually use those words in real situations.”
Slang has become common dialect in the hallways.
“Oftentimes in passing periods you and before class starts you hear it in various conversations around you. I’ve noticed I hear it a lot,” stated Doyle.
AJ agrees, replying, “Yeah I hear it every single day, I hear it 99% of the time.”
With differentiating opinions surrounding the use of this vocabulary, the prevalence of these slangs continues to rise. While the words will change and evolve, it is no doubt that this vocabulary will continue to exist in high school environments.
