10 Must-Know Slang Expressions in English for 2023

Slang evolves rapidly, leaving yesterday’s lingo in the dust. The words that were all the rage in 2022 have vanished, replaced by fresh slang that’s quickly becoming part of everyday conversation.

In recent times, much akin to the preceding year, the burgeoning slang expressions owe a nod to platforms like TikTok. Some emerge as fresh entries, while others experience a revival. Regardless of their origins, they reign as the current champions in linguistic trends. Yet, their longevity remains as unpredictable as ever.

“It’s giving”

This phrase is a versatile addition to the vernacular, used to capture the essence or vibe emitted by something. When an outfit doesn’t quite hit the mark or feels overly grand, you might say “it’s giving prom” to encapsulate that sense of formal excess. Or when you encounter something charmingly corny, like a dance routine reminiscent of teen musicals, “it’s giving High School Musical” precisely conveys that vibe. Additionally, “it’s giving” can serve as an enthusiastic endorsement, affirming that something is simply fantastic without further elaboration.

“Era”

Traditionally linked to historical periods, “era” has been co-opted into slang to denote a distinct period characterized by a particular interest or behavior in someone’s life. If you’re finding yourself indulging in ramen continuously, it could be labeled your “ramen era.” Likewise, if someone has been notably troublesome or provocative, it might be dubbed their “villain era,” framing their actions within a broader narrative of personal development or identity.

“IYKYK”

• This acronym stands for “if you know, you know,” signaling a shared understanding or an in-joke among those in the know;
• It’s a nod to those inside experiences or pieces of knowledge that need no explanation among a certain group. 

With this acronym, there’s a sense of community and exclusivity wrapped up in those five letters.

“Slay”

Far from being a new entrant, “slay” is a bit of a throwback in the world of slang, but it’s enjoying a comeback with expanded usage. Initially used as a verb meaning to excel or do exceptionally well, as in “she slayed that performance,” it’s now being adopted as an adjective too. 

• “That’s so slay” is a high compliment, asserting that something is impressive or excellent;
• The word “slay” on its own has also become a form of praise, celebrating someone’s success or fabulousness.

“Fell off”

This term is used to describe a decline in someone’s status, relevance, or success, particularly after a period of prominence. It could refer to a celebrity or influencer who hasn’t maintained their previous high standards or has vanished from public view. To “fall off” implies a loss of the qualities that once placed a person at the pinnacle of success or popularity.

“Gatekeep”

Adhering to its traditional meaning of controlling access to something, “gatekeep” has found new life in everyday parlance. It might refer to keeping a new favorite spot like a cafe secret or not disclosing the source of a stylish new purchase. 

• Gatekeeping, as a slang term, is used to describe the act of keeping information exclusive, and it’s often suggested that the more gracious choice is to share rather than to gatekeep.

“Situationship”

This term is for the gray area of modern relationships that aren’t defined by clear-cut labels. A situationship is where two people are more than friends but haven’t established themselves as a formal couple, leaving their connection undefined.

“Bad take”

A “bad take” is a critique for an opinion or perspective that seems poorly reasoned or objectionable. It’s a handy way to signal disagreement or discomfort with a stance on any topic, whether it’s trivial or profound. For instance, disparaging a universally loved fruit could earn the judgment of a “bad take.” 

“Private not secret”

In the age of oversharing, this phrase captures the nuanced choice of being discreet without being secretive, especially in relationships. It’s the art of revealing just enough to acknowledge a relationship’s existence without showcasing it fully, like sharing a photo that hints at a partner’s presence without revealing their identity. As a verb, it’s about delicately balancing privacy with acknowledgment in a public space.

“Touch grass”

This modern retort suggests stepping away from the virtual world and engaging with reality, particularly after someone has made an outrageous comment or seems too absorbed in online drama. It’s akin to telling someone to reconnect with the real world and gain some perspective.

“Rizz”

An evolution of charisma, “rizz” encapsulates a magnetic charm that one possesses, particularly in romantic endeavors. It’s the je ne sais quoi that makes someone irresistibly engaging and persuasive in social interactions.

Conclusion

The rapid evolution of language, particularly in the form of slang, reflects the dynamism of modern communication. These catchy phrases and words keep our language lively and engaging. So, gear up to sound cool and trendy in 2023, well equipped with the latest slang words. Remember, the right use of these can be a conversation starter, helping you connect better with the younger generation. But, use them wisely, and when in doubt, resort to standard English. After all, clear communication is the ultimate goal.