Language evolves fast, and some words immediately reveal your generation.
Every generation brings its own unique vocabulary, shaped by cultural influences, technological advancements, and societal changes. While Boomers grew up with expressions that reflected the optimism and countercultural movements of the 1960s and ’70s, Gen Z’s slang is heavily influenced by internet culture, memes, and digital communication.
The words we use often become markers of our age, making it easy to identify someone’s generational background. If you’ve ever used a phrase that made younger people cringe—or struggled to understand a new slang term—you’re not alone. Here’s a breakdown of some words that instantly reveal your generational roots.
1. “Groovy” vs. “Slaps”
Boomers fondly remember the days when everything cool was described as “groovy.” This word, synonymous with being stylish or impressive, peaked in popularity in the ’60s and ’70s but has since faded into ironic use. Saying something is “groovy” today is a surefire way to date yourself.
Meanwhile, Gen Z uses “slaps” to describe something that’s exceptionally good, particularly in reference to music, food, or entertainment, according to Business Insider. If a song has a great beat, it “slaps.” Unlike “groovy,” this term still has mainstream credibility, but like all slang, it might eventually fall out of favor as the next generation takes over.
2. “Far out” vs. “No cap”
Boomers used “far out” to express amazement or disbelief, often in a positive way. If something was exciting or extraordinary, it was “far out, man.” This phrase was closely tied to hippie culture and has since become a relic of the past, mostly used as a nostalgic joke, according to Boomer Insider.
Gen Z, on the other hand, uses “no cap” to emphasize honesty. If someone is being truthful, they might say, “That movie was amazing, no cap.” This phrase has roots in hip-hop culture and signals sincerity, the opposite of “capping,” which means lying or exaggerating.
3. “The cat’s pajamas” vs. “Fire”
Older generations had many creative ways to describe something fantastic, and “the cat’s pajamas” was one of them. This quirky expression, popular in the early-to-mid 20th century, signified that something was outstanding or stylish.
Today, Gen Z uses “fire” to describe anything exceptionally good. A great outfit, an amazing song, or a delicious meal can all be “fire.” Unlike “the cat’s pajamas,” which sounds like something from a black-and-white movie, “fire” still has mainstream relevance, though it too may be replaced in the coming years.
4. “Gag me with a spoon” vs. “Cringe”
The Valley Girl era of the ’80s gave us “gag me with a spoon,” a dramatic way to express disgust or distaste. This phrase, once a staple in teen lingo, is now mostly remembered as a relic of that particular cultural moment.
Gen Z simplifies the sentiment with the word “cringe.” If something is embarrassing, awkward, or outdated, it’s “cringe.” The term has become a common way to dismiss anything perceived as out of touch, making it a go-to expression for younger generations.
5. “Rad” vs. “Lit”
In the ’80s and ’90s, if something was awesome or exciting, it was “rad.” This short form of “radical” was widely used among skateboarders and surfers before spreading to mainstream culture.
Gen Z prefers “lit” to describe something fun, exciting, or amazing. A great party is “lit,” a fantastic concert is “lit,” and even a well-prepared meal can be “lit.” The word has become so widespread that it’s even being co-opted by older generations—perhaps signaling its eventual decline.
6. “Bummer” vs. “Mood”
Boomers and Gen X often used “bummer” to describe something disappointing. If plans got canceled or someone had a bad day, it was a “bummer.”
Gen Z instead uses “mood” as a shorthand way to express agreement or relatability. If someone shares a story about feeling exhausted, another person might respond simply with “mood,” meaning they relate to that feeling.
7. “Take a chill pill” vs. “Calm down”
Boomers and Gen X often told people to “take a chill pill” when they were overreacting or stressed. The phrase was especially popular in the ’80s and ’90s but has since fallen out of use.
Gen Z prefers the more straightforward “calm down.” While it may not be as colorful as “take a chill pill,” it’s a more universally understood way to tell someone to relax.
8. “Bogus” vs. “Sus”
In the ’80s and ’90s, something unfair, ridiculous, or fake was “bogus.” The term was popularized by movies like Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure but has since faded from mainstream use.
Gen Z uses “sus” (short for suspicious) to describe anything that seems shady or untrustworthy. Whether it’s a person acting strangely or a deal that seems too good to be true, it’s “sus.”
9. “Gnarly” vs. “GOAT”
Surfers and skateboarders made “gnarly” a popular term for something extreme, whether good or bad. It could describe a sick trick or a terrible wipeout.
Gen Z’s “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) is used to describe top-tier excellence, from athletes to musicians. Unlike “gnarly,” which has both positive and negative connotations, “GOAT” is purely complimentary.
10. “Dweeb” vs. “NPC”
Calling someone a “dweeb” in the ’80s and ’90s meant they were a nerd or socially awkward. While it wasn’t the harshest insult, it wasn’t exactly a compliment either.
Gen Z uses “NPC” (Non-Playable Character) to describe someone who is dull, robotic, or lacking originality—essentially someone who just goes through the motions of life without independent thought.
11. “Dynamite” vs. “Bet”
Boomers and Gen Xers might exclaim “dynamite!” to express enthusiasm or approval. The term, popularized by the sitcom Good Times, has all but disappeared from everyday use.
Gen Z instead uses “bet” as a casual way to agree or confirm something. If someone suggests plans for the evening, a simple “bet” means “sounds good.”
12. “Cool beans” vs. “Vibe check”
“Cool beans” was a lighthearted way to say “cool” in the ’80s and ’90s. While it still gets some ironic use, it’s mostly outdated.
Gen Z prefers “vibe check” to gauge the mood of a person or situation. If a party seems off, someone might say, “Vibe check?” to see if others agree.
13. “Burn rubber” vs. “Flex”
Boomers and Gen X used “burn rubber” to describe speeding off in a car, often in a rebellious or dramatic fashion. The phrase is now largely associated with vintage car culture.
Gen Z’s “flex” refers to showing off or bragging. If someone flaunts their wealth or achievements, they’re “flexing.”
14. “Hunky-dory” vs. “Deadass”
If everything was fine and going smoothly, Boomers might say it was “hunky-dory.” This old-fashioned phrase has mostly faded from everyday conversation.
Gen Z’s “deadass” means “seriously” or “for real.” If someone says, “I’m deadass,” they’re emphasizing the truth of their statement.