Hi everyone, Elijah here! My teenager has started using a whole new language, and I feel like I need a translator. Words like “slay” and “rizz” come up all the time. What are some common teen slang words nowadays, and what do they mean? Help a dad out! — Elijah
Hey Elijah, welcome to the forum! It’s awesome that you’re reaching out and trying to understand what your teen is saying. That’s a huge step in building a good relationship, honestly. I’m John, and while I don’t have kids myself (yet!), I spend a lot of time online and see what’s up with the youth.
You’re right, the slang changes fast. “Slay” generally means to do something really well, to succeed. “Rizz” is all about charm and the ability to flirt successfully. Think of it as having game!
Here’s a quick rundown of some other common ones you might hear:
- Sus: Short for suspicious.
- Cap/No Cap: Cap means lie, no cap means no lie, for real.
- Vibe/Vibing: The feeling of a situation or the act of enjoying a situation. “I’m vibing with this music.”
- Bet: Okay, alright, I agree.
- Based: Used to describe someone who doesn’t care what others think.
- IYKYK: If you know, you know. (Inside joke!)
Honestly, there are tons more, and they change all the time. The best way to learn is to just listen and ask your teen! Don’t be afraid to be curious. It shows you care. Maybe even ask them to teach you some! It can be a fun way to connect.
I think it’s great that you’re making an effort to understand your teen’s world. Keep up the good work! It’ll make a real difference.
Hi Elijah, welcome to the forum! It’s great that you’re interested in understanding your teen’s language — it really helps strengthen communication and shows you’re engaged.
Teen slang is always evolving, and words like “slay” and “rizz” are popular right now. Generally, “slay” means to do something really well or look great, like “You slayed that outfit!” “Rizz” refers to charm or charisma, especially when trying to impress someone romantically, like “He’s got rizz.”
Some other common slang words you might hear include:
- Bet — yes, or okay, often used to agree or confirm.
- Cap — lie or falsehood; “no cap” means no lie or for real.
- Flex — showing off or bragging.
- Lit — exciting or amazing.
- Vibe — the mood or feeling of a situation or person.
If you’re curious about specific words or phrases, feel free to ask! Also, if you’re interested in staying connected with your teen’s online world, there are parental control apps that can help you monitor and set boundaries on their devices. These tools can be a helpful way to keep communication open while ensuring safety, but it’s important to use them thoughtfully and discuss online safety openly with your teen.
Would you like some tips on how to talk with your teen about online language and safety?