We’ve put together a guide to American slang words to help folks get familiar with the most used informal words in English.
Learning English can be a challenge, especially when it comes to slang, for students coming from other countries. Slang words are everywhere, especially on college campuses. At your internship or job, you might also come across the latest trendy words and phrases. Our updated guide on college slang and American slang aims to make it easier for you to grasp new slang terms. Not only will it introduce you to these words, but it’ll also provide examples of how they’re used, making it simpler for you to pick them up and fit them into conversations. This guide aims to ensure you’re not left scratching your head when you hear these terms being thrown around.
What is slang?
Slang is like a secret language within a language! It’s when we use words or phrases in a special way that’s different from what they usually mean. Take “keep your cool” for instance. It’s not about the weather; it means to stay calm when things get tough.
This cool language changes a lot. Some slang, like “what’s up?”, has been around forever and is now part of everyday talk. It’s called an idiom, where words mean something different from their literal meaning. Another one is “out of the blue,” meaning something unexpected happened.
But there’s also trendy slang that pops up from music, TV, or movies and fades away quickly. Try saying “Wazzzup” to a friend, and they might giggle, but not in a good way!
Learning slang helps you connect better with American students. Use trendy words with friends, but when talking to teachers or coworkers, it’s better to stick to formal English. Using slang at work might make others think you’re being impolite or not serious. So, knowing when to use slang is key to fitting in!
Evolution of Modern American slang words
New slang words and trends often sprout from pop culture and the habits of young people. In the past, TV shows, music, movies, and video games greatly influenced the slang used by kids, teens, and young adults. However, with the shift toward spending more time online, the internet—especially social media—has become the primary driver of American slang.
Today, if you’re keen on learning the latest and coolest slang, look no further than the social media platforms dominating youth usage. To grasp the most up-to-date examples, observe how TikTok and Instagram creators communicate. Take note of frequently used hashtags and the context in which slang words are deployed online. The birth and rapid adoption of trendy words and phrases largely occur within the realm of social media.
By keeping an eye on these platforms, you can stay in the loop and gain insight into the newest linguistic trends, including college slang and the hippest expressions that are gaining traction among young people across the internet landscape.
Regional American Slang Words in Colleges
In different parts of the United States, people use different slang words. Even though the internet and popular culture spread some common slang, each region has its own cool words. The Northeast, South, Midwest, Southwest, Pacific Northwest, and West Coast all have their unique set of words.
For instance, if you attend the University of the Pacific in California, you might hear different slang compared to UMass Boston. Sometimes, the same word might mean something slightly different in various places. So, a word that’s cool at Adelphi University might not be as trendy at Louisiana State University, or the other way around.
Let’s take a peek at some regional slang examples. In Boston, a student might say something is “wicked good,” meaning it’s very good. In Texas or South Carolina, you might hear “y’all should come to the game later,” referring to you or a group. Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, “jawn” is a versatile term used for almost any noun, like saying, “We’re taking this jawn to the bank.”
No matter where you choose to study, you’ll quickly catch onto the local slang. It might even start slipping into your own vocabulary!
Sure, there are some slang words used all over the country. Here are just a few college slang words you’ll probably encounter, regardless of the region. Have a look at these slang examples.
The Hottest American Slang Words and Their Meanings
Certain trendy words have taken centre stage in American conversations, reflecting the current cultural landscape and expressing various emotions and attitudes. Here are the top ten slang words that have gained popularity across the country:
1. Boujee: This word describes something as luxurious, posh, or extravagant. It signifies a sense of richness or fanciness in an item or a person’s demeanour. For instance, when someone flaunts a high-end brand like Louis Vuitton, they might be referred to as “boujee.”
2. Bussin’: Used to describe something exceptionally good or amazing, “bussin’” signifies high praise for food, experiences, or even events. For instance, if someone finds a particular food item delicious, they might say, “These potato chips are bussin’!”
3. Drip: Referring to a person’s fashion or style, “drip” denotes a sophisticated, stylish appearance. When someone is impeccably dressed, their outfit might be described as “dripping.”
4. Extra: When someone is being overly dramatic, attention-seeking, or excessive in their actions, they are considered “extra.” For instance, if someone is making a big deal out of a small situation, they might be told, “You don’t have to be so extra about it!”
5. Rent-free: This phrase describes when something or someone occupies a significant space in a person’s thoughts or becomes an obsession. For example, after watching a movie, a character might be “living rent-free” in someone’s head, meaning they can’t stop thinking about them.
6. Salty: Used to describe someone who is overreacting or acting bitter about something, “salty” refers to an exaggerated negative reaction. For instance, if someone reacts strongly to not receiving an immediate text response, they might be called “salty.”
7. Shook: When someone is stunned or shocked by something unexpected or surprising, they are “shook.” For instance, witnessing an unexpected event might leave someone saying, “That moment had me shook.”
8. Vibe check: This phrase involves checking in on someone’s mood or ensuring they’re enjoying themselves. It’s often used in social settings to gauge someone’s well-being or comfort. For instance, asking a friend, “Hey, vibe check!” is an informal way to ask if they’re doing okay.
9. Woke: Describing someone as socially conscious or culturally aware, “woke” signifies an understanding of social issues and perspectives. For instance, someone might become “woke” after being exposed to diverse viewpoints in a course or through experiences.
Also Read: 6 Social Interaction Examples
Everyday American Slang Words
Discovering and understanding common American slang can be both fun and helpful for everyday conversations. If you’re unsure about when to use these terms, consulting a friend or using resources like UrbanDictionary online can provide insights into their appropriate usage. Below are some widely used slang expressions along with their meanings:
- All the ___ (phrase)
- An exaggeration to express strong emotions, usually in a positive way.
- Break a leg (phrase)
- Used to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance.
- Chill or chill out (verb)
- To relax, calm down, or be easygoing.
- Ditch (verb)
- To unexpectedly leave a place or person, or to not show up to prior plans.
- For real (phrase)
- Indicates agreement, emphasizes a statement, or seeks confirmation.
- Get off my back (phrase)
- Request for someone to stop bothering or pressuring you about something.
- Greek life (noun)
- Refers to campus social organizations for male (fraternities) or female (sororities) students, identified by Greek letters.
- Hang out (verb)
- Spending time or doing activities with friends.
- Hit the books (verb)
- To study intensively or do homework.
- I can’t even (phrase)
- Expresses being overwhelmed, often in a humorous or positive manner.
- I’m down (phrase)
- Indicates agreement or interest in something.
- Legit (adjective)
- Describes something as genuine or worthwhile.
- OMG (exclamation)
- Abbreviation for “Oh my god,” used to express surprise, excitement, or disgust.
- Roomie (noun)
- An informal term for a roommate.
- YOLO (abbreviation)
- An informal motto, “You only live once,” is often used humorously.
- Zone out (verb)
- To become distracted and lose focus on surrounding events
Understanding these phrases can greatly enhance your interactions in various social settings. If you’re unsure when to use them, observing their context in conversations or seeking clarification can help you integrate them effectively into your everyday language.
Conclusion
To keep up with the latest slang words in America, start by paying attention to how your classmates talk. They can help you figure out which trendy words are used in your region and among your friends. Don’t be afraid to ask if you don’t understand something – it’s a great way to start a conversation!
Remember, it’s okay if you come across slang you’ve never heard before. Even native Americans can’t keep up with every new term. The key is using your judgment. Soon enough, you’ll be able to use slang comfortably both on and off campus.
Additionally, try watching American TV shows or movies, or listening to popular music or podcasts. These can be great resources to pick up on new phrases and words. You could also explore social media platforms where slang often emerges first.
Lastly, consider joining clubs or groups that interest you. Engaging with different communities exposes you to diverse slang vocabularies used by various social groups. Embrace the learning process and have fun with it!
