concepts
2000s slang
2010s slang
2020s slang
the effects of slang
100

When someone calls a boring event "lit," it shows how people give words new meanings depending on shared understanding.

What is semantics?

100

This 2000s slang word shows semantics, because its meaning changed from describing something shiny to meaning “expensive” or “flashy.”

What is bling?

100

This 2010s slang word shows semantics, because its meaning shifted from describing a real animal to describing a person who’s confident or successful.

What is GOAT?

100

This 2020s slang word shows semantics, because its meaning changed from describing charm or attraction in general to specifically referring to someone’s ability to flirt or impress others.

What is rizz?

100

Using slang changes the meanings of words, so people from different generations might not understand each other. For example, saying something is “fire” doesn’t mean it’s burning — it means it’s cool. 

What is changing word meaning?

200

When a person says "It's giving confident" instead of "It's giving a confident vibe," they're breaking grammar rules but still making sense.

What is syntax?

200

This 2000s slang phrase shows pragmatics, because its meaning depends on tone and context. Said excitedly, it shows support — but said flatly, it can sound sarcastic.

What is whatever?

200

This 2010s slang phrase shows syntax, because it drops parts of a full sentence. Instead of saying “I’m throwing criticism,” people just say this short phrase to mean they’re subtly insulting someone.

What is throwing shade?

200

This 2020s slang phrase shows syntax, because it breaks normal grammar rules. Instead of saying “I agree” or “You’re right,” people use this one word to show strong agreement or excitement.

What is facts?

200

Using slang can help you fit in with your friends or your generation, like saying “bet” or “no cap.” But people who don’t know the slang might feel left out.

What is showing group identity?

300

When a person says "Nice job" in a sarcastic tone, the meaning depends on HOW and WHEN it's said, not just the words themselves.

What is pragmatics?

300

This 2000s slang phrase shows syntax, because it breaks sentence structure. People used it as a quick way to agree with someone instead of a full sentence like “I agree.”

What is fo' shizzle?

300

This 2010s slang phrase shows pragmatics, because its meaning depends on tone and context. Said jokingly, it means you’re not really upset; said seriously, it means genuine frustration.

What is I can't even?

300

This 2020s slang phrase shows pragmatics, because its meaning depends on tone and context. Said playfully, it shows support or encouragement, but said mockingly, it can sound sarcastic or teasing.

What is ate?

300

How you say slang can change what it means. Saying “okayyy” in a fun way is supportive, but saying it flatly can make it sound rude.

What is changing meaning based on tone or context?