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10 Must-Know English Slang Words for 2024

Dearmond Teresa

As we step into a new year, embracing the latest in English slang is part of staying on the pulse of cultural trends. With TikTok at the forefront of shaping what’s hip, it’s no surprise that the platform has become a breeding ground for new slang making its way into everyday chats.

Feeling lost in the sea of online jargon? No need for concern. The aim here is to clear up any bewilderment surrounding the newest additions to the English vernacular. Get ahead in 2024 by mastering these 10 essential English slang words.

Delulu

  • Kicking off our list is “Delulu,” a term that’s gained traction far beyond its origins in the K-pop community;
  • Short for “delusional,” it’s become a go-to phrase for describing anyone who’s lost touch with reality. 

Whether it’s a friend unrealistically planning to cram a month’s work into a single night, or someone’s wild expectations, labeling their plans as “Delulu” captures the essence of their unrealistic outlook.

Coded

  • The term “coded” is a creative way to draw parallels between a person’s traits and something else that embodies similar characteristics;
  • If a friend is perpetually cheerful and energetic, likening them to a “golden-retriever-coded” individual encapsulates their personality perfectly. 

This slang allows for endless possibilities, inviting you to capture the spirit of someone’s demeanor or qualities by comparing them to anything that fits.

Roman Empire

Emerging from the quirky corners of TikTok, the phrase “Roman Empire” reflects the phenomenon of being unable to shake off certain thoughts. Originally noting the odd preoccupation some have with the Roman Empire, it now signifies any topic or memory that dominates your thoughts, like an unending loop of a favorite song or a pivotal life event that remains on your mind.

Vibing

  • “Vibing” is a testament to the endurance of certain slang, seamlessly fitting into various contexts over the years;
  • It’s the perfect descriptor for harmonious interactions, mutual understandings, or simply finding pleasure in something new. 

Whether it’s two people connecting on a deep level or discovering a surprisingly delightful taste, “vibing” encapsulates a state of being in tune with the moment or each other.

Altered My Brain Chemistry

For experiences that leave a lasting impression, saying they “altered my brain chemistry” dramatically captures their impact. This phrase can swing from the weight of a transformative life event to the euphoria of simple pleasures. It’s a hyperbolic yet effective way of expressing how something moved you deeply, changing your outlook or mood in memorable ways.

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Beige Flag

Expanding on the concept of signals in interpersonal dynamics, we introduce the beige flag. 

  • This concept derives from the colorful lexicon of “green” and “red” flags, symbolizing respectively positive and negative traits;
  • The beige flag captures those peculiar yet benign behaviors that stand out without necessarily being a cause for concern. 

For instance, choosing to eat pizza with utensils might raise eyebrows but doesn’t fundamentally alter one’s opinion of someone. It’s a nuanced flag, highly subjective in nature; what’s merely quirky to one might be a deal-breaker for another.

Side Quest

Borrowing from the lexicon of gaming, the term “side quest” has transcended its original context to describe any unplanned detour or activity that diverts from one’s main objective. Picture yourself heading out for groceries and getting sidetracked by a spontaneous trip to a pet store, ending up with a new aquarium inhabitant. That’s your side quest – an unexpected but potentially rewarding deviation from your primary goal.

NPC

Another term from the gaming world, NPC or “Non-Player Character,” has found its way into everyday vernacular to describe individuals who seem to navigate life on autopilot, often embracing trends without much reflection.

Side Eye

A gesture as old as time but popularized anew, the side eye is a look of skepticism, suspicion, or disbelief. Thanks to viral moments and remixes on social media platforms like TikTok, expressing one’s doubt or skepticism through a well-timed side eye has never been more in vogue. It’s the non-verbal cue for, “I see what you did there,” without directly confronting the matter at hand.

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In the Room with Us

This phrase questions the shared reality of a situation or perception. Originating from discussions where one’s experience or understanding starkly contrasts with another’s, it’s like asking, “Are we experiencing the same reality?” If someone’s actions or statements seem disconnected from your perception, you might wonder if “the green sweater is in the room with us,” highlighting a discrepancy in observation or understanding.

Mother

Evolving from calling influential or admired figures “queen,” the slang “mother” has become a term of endearment and respect for those who embody exceptional qualities. While often used to refer to celebrities or public figures whom one deeply admires, it can be affectionately applied to anyone who inspires or leads by example in one’s personal circle, echoing sentiments of reverence and admiration.

11 Slang words you need to know in 2024

Conclusion

Understanding the current slang not only helps in keep up with the fast-paced internet culture but also enriches our language repertoire. It’s fascinating how these words and phrases, representing the pulse of the times, can shape the way we communicate. However, it’s also essential to be aware of the context and audience while using slang. It’s the perfect example of how language continues to evolve, reflecting cultural shifts and societal trends.