Unveiling the Evolution of Slang: Gen Z Terms Deemed Outdated by Gen Alpha

In a digital age where language evolves at a rapid pace, a recent TikTok video by Gen Zer Liv Kaplan has taken the internet by storm. Kaplan, known as @livkaplan on TikTok, and her three siblings engaged in a lively discussion with Kaplan’s Gen Alpha sister, Brooklyn, as they explored the ever-changing landscape of slang terms.

The viral video, amassing over 34 million views, delves into which once-popular Gen Z slang terms are now considered outdated according to the younger Gen Alpha perspective.

Posted on January 3, the 3-minute clip showcases Liv Kaplan and her siblings seeking insights from Brooklyn about current slang trends. The fascinating revelations offer a glimpse into the swiftly shifting linguistic preferences between generations.

Gen Alpha On Gen Z Slangs

Brooklyn, the Gen Alpha expert, dismissed terms like “queen,” “slay,” “trendy,” and “yas” as outdated, proclaiming, “That was literally five months ago. It’s, like, cringe.” The video captures the essence of the linguistic gap that can emerge even between closely related generations.

One of the standout moments occurred when the term “cheugy” was brought up, prompting Brooklyn to question, “What does that even mean?” The older siblings explained that it holds a similar meaning to “cringe,” and according to Brooklyn, “cringe” is still considered in.

The sibling conversation touched on several other terms, each met with Brooklyn’s candid reactions and assessments:

1. Fam vs. Bro: Brooklyn clarified that while “fam” traditionally refers to close friends or “homies,” in Gen Alpha, “bro” has become the preferred term.
2. BFF vs. BSF: The classic “BFF” (best friends forever) has been replaced by “BSF” (best friend), as per Gen Alpha’s preference. Brooklyn explained that “BF” could be confusing, referring to either a boyfriend or a best friend, leading to the adoption of “BSF.”
3. Pop off vs. You Ate That: The once-popular phrase “pop off” or “go off” was deemed cringey, and Gen Alpha suggests replacing it with the more uplifting phrase “You ate that.”
4. Bae: The endearing term “bae” (before anyone else), widely used by Gen Z and Millennials, is considered outdated by Gen Alpha. According to Brooklyn, “We just don’t do that.”
5. Dime: Brooklyn expressed confusion about the term “dime,” not having heard of it before. The older siblings explained its meaning – rating someone as a “10 out of 10” – leaving Brooklyn surprised by the unfamiliar slang.
6. Phatty vs. Gyat: The term “phatty,” referring to someone with a larger buttocks, was met with confusion by Brooklyn. She introduced “Gyat” as the new version, derived from “goddamn” or “GOT-damn.”

In a follow-up video, Brooklyn revealed that two Gen Z terms still deemed relevant by Gen Alpha are “It’s giving,” signifying a resemblance or comparison, and “cap,” referring to someone lying.

The TikTok video not only offers a humorous and insightful exploration of changing slang preferences but also highlights the fluidity of language across generations. As digital platforms continue to shape linguistic trends, such interactions provide a fascinating window into the ever-evolving world of communication.