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Imagine you're walking through America, smelling delicious pretzels, and suddenly, a local uses a US slang word- "Fuhgeddaboudit!" You're puzzled at first, but then you realize it means, ‘Forget about it’. American slang is like a colorful quilt, with each city having its own unique words. From the lively talk of New Orleans to the chill vibes of Los Angeles, USA is a language adventure. In this blog, we'll explore the top American cities and their cool slang and meanings.
What is Slang?
Slang words are terms with cultural meanings that differ from their literal definitions. For instance, when someone says "keep your cool," they're not referring to temperature but to staying calm under pressure.
The slang words are quite trendy, thanks to the current music, TV, and movies. For instance, saying "Wazzzup" to a classmate might result in laughter, but not in a good way. Knowing how and when to use an American slang language helps connect with and understand students.
American Slang by Region
Even though pop culture and the internet have made slang terms popular nationwide (and frequently worldwide), we have to keep in mind that slang terms may vary by region. This implies that there will be cool local slang unique to the Northeast, South, Midwest, Southwest, Pacific Northwest, and West Coast. For example: College slang may differ slightly from current slang at UMass Boston from the University of the Pacific in California.
Using regional slang, a Boston student might say something is "wicked good," which simply means it's really good. "Y'all should come to the game later," a student in South Carolina or Texas might say, referring to you or your group. Additionally, "jawn" can be used in Philadelphia to refer to practically any noun ("we're taking this jawn to the bank").
Origin of American Slang
Pop culture and youth culture continually generate new slang and trends. Historically, TV shows, pop and hip-hop music, movies, and video games were the main influencers. While these media still play their role, young people tend to spend more time online. Consequently, the internet, especially social media, will accustom you to the common American slang phrases as well as the funny American slang words.
To catch the latest American slang expressions, check out social media platforms popular with young people. Observe how creators on TikTok and Instagram use different slang terms. Here are 50+ Canadian slang terms that you should know!
Why should you know American slang?
Understanding American slang is crucial because it helps you navigate the subtleties of the language and blend in with native speakers. It also helps you better understand American culture, communicate more naturally with native speakers, avoid misunderstandings in casual conversations, and feel more connected to those around you by using language that is considered "normal" in everyday interactions.
What is the Meaning of American slang?
American slang is a type of language that is commonly used in the United States. It consists of words, phrases, and expressions that are not typically found in writing or standard dictionaries. American sayings and phrases don’t have a literal definition; they follow a cultural pattern. It constantly shows American society's cultural, regional, and generational nuances and it may also serve as a cultural shock in America for non-residence experience.
Top American slang words!
General slang includes a wide variety of informal typical American sayings that are commonly used in everyday conversations across the United States, which differ a lot from British slang! Below is a curated list of all the popular and common American slang words that you can try on your friends:
1. Savage
Adjective, Noun - Someone ruthless/ impressive admirably or humorously.
Example: Did you see how she roasted him on Twitter? She’s savage.
2. Woke
Adjective - Aware of social issues and injustices.
Example: He’s not just a good singer; he’s also woke. He supports many causes and charities.
3. Sus
Adjective - Suspicious/ shady.
Example: I don’t trust him, he’s acting sus. He always lies and cheats.
4. Rizz
Noun - A slang term for money or cash
Example: I need to make some rizz this weekend. Do you have any gigs for me?
5. Iykyk
Short form - If you know you know!
Example: He bought a limited edition Jordans at a sneaker store and was saying ‘iykyk’. I wonder what that means.
6. Bussin
Adjective - Delicious/ Amazing.
Example: This pizza is bussin, bro. You gotta try it.
7. Cheugy
Adjective - Outdated/ Uncool.
Example: She still wears UGG boots and skinny jeans? That’s so cheugy.
8. Drip
Noun - Cool/ Fashionable.
Example: He’s got the drip, look at the outfit. He’s dripping in designer clothes.
9. It’s giving
Verb - Implies/ Suggests.
Example: “It’s giving me very clown vibes. He needs to stop joking around and be serious.”
10. Gucci
Adjective - Good/ fine.
Example: “How are you feeling today? I’m Gucci, thanks for asking.”
11. Shook
Adjective - Shocked/ Surprised.
Example: “I was shook when I saw the plot twist in the movie. I didn’t see it coming.”
12. Salty
Adjective - Bitter/ angry.
Example: “He’s salty because he lost the game. He needs to chill and accept defeat.”
13. Extra
Adjective - Over the top/ Excessive in their behavior or attitude.
Example: “She’s so extra, she always makes a scene wherever she goes.”
14. Flex
Verb, Noun - Showing off/ Bragging.
Example: “He bought a new car just to flex on his ex. That’s a big flex.”
15. Thirsty
Adjective - Desperate for attention/ affection.
Example: “She’s thirsty for likes, she posts selfies every day. She needs to get a life.”
16. Yeet
Verb - Throwing something with force or excitement.
Example: “He yeeted his phone across the room when he saw the message. He was so mad.”
17. Tea
Noun - Gossip/ secrets.
Example: “Spill the tea, sis. What did he say to you?”
18. Stan
Verb, Noun - Obsessed/ Devoted fan.
Example: “I stan Beyoncé, she’s my queen. I’ve been stanning her since I was a kid.”
19. Snack
Noun - Attractive/ Appealing.
Example: “He’s such a snack, look at his abs. I want a bite of that.”
20. Shade
Noun, Verb - Subtle insults/ criticisms.
Example: “She threw shade at her rival in her speech. She said she was happy for her success, but she sounded sarcastic.”
21. Lit
Adjective - Exciting or amazing.
Example: “This party is lit, everyone is having fun. The music is lit too.”
22. Bop
Noun - Catchy song.
Example: “This song is a bop, I can’t stop singing it. It’s stuck in my head.”
23. Slay
Verb - Impressively.
Example: “She slayed the presentation, she was so confident and persuasive. She slayed everyone with her facts and figures.”
24. Zaddy
Noun - Attractive/ Charismatic man.
Example: “Zayn Malik previously of One Direction is a popular zaddy. He’s got the looks and the personality.”
25. Cap
Noun, Verb - Lying/ exaggerating.
Example: “He said he has a million followers on Instagram, but that’s cap. He only has a few thousand.”
26. GOAT
Acronym - Greatest Of All Time.
Example: “He’s the GOAT of football, no one can beat him. He has won so many championships and awards.”
27. Rona
Noun - Corona virus/ COVID-19 pandemic.
Example: “I’m so tired of the rona, I want to travel and see my friends. I hope it ends soon.”
28. PeriodT
Noun - Emphasis/ Finality on ending the sentence.
Example: “She’s the best singer in the world, PeriodT. No one can argue with that.”
29. Skrt
Verb - Car screeching/ Swerving.
Example: “He drove off in his new car, skrt skrt. He was so happy with his purchase.”
30. Smol
Adjective - Small/ cute.
Example: “Look at this smol kitten, it’s so adorable. I want to cuddle it.”
31. Clout
Noun - Fame/ influence.
Example: “He’s only dating her for clout, he wants to boost his followers and views. He doesn’t really love her.”
32. Bet
Adverb - Agreement/ Understanding.
Example: “We’re playing soccer at 8? Bet.”
33. GRWM
Acronym - Get Ready With Me.
Example: “Going out to a party? Connect and GRWM!
34. Mid
Adjective - Average/ Unimpressive.
Example: “That dress is so mid, I cannot even consider it!”
35. Vibe check
Verb - Match Vibes.
Example: “This party passes all vibe checks bro!”
36. Amped
Adjective - Very Excited.
Example: “I’m so amped for my wedding!”
37. Basic
Adjective - Uncool/ Boring.
Example: “The furniture in their house is so basic.”
38. Bestie
Noun - Best Friend.
Example: “My bestie is the best!”
39. Boujee
Adjective - Rich/ Luxurious.
Example: “He looks so boujee with the Zara shirt!”
40. Curve Ball
Noun - Tricky/ Unexpected.
Example: “The assignment was a real curve ball, wasn’t it?”
41. Ditch
Verb - To Leave a person unexpectedly.
Example: “ I hope he doesn’t ditch her.”
42. Hang out
Verb - Spend time/Chill.
Example - “I’m hanging out with my bestie this weekend.”
43. Hit the Books
Verb - To Study.
Example - “ Since the exams are near, Imma hit the books”
44. I dunno
Phrase - I don’t know
Example - “ I dunno bro, her intentions are undecipherable.”
45. I’m down
Phrase - Agree to something.
Example - “ I’m down for a beer anytime man.”
46. K
Abbreviation - Okay.
Example - “Why are all her replies to my texts,’ K’?”
47. Legit
Adjective - Real
Example - “The relationship is legit dude.”
48. Mag
Abbreviation - Magazine
Example - “Have you read any of their latest mags?”
49. Prof
Abbreviation - Professor.
Example - “The prof is a bit late today.”
50. Roomie
Noun - Roommate.
Example - “Hey roomie! How’s it going?”
Popular American slang phrases
Here are some commonly used American slang phrases!
1. To be in your bag
Verb - Being really focused on your goals or passions or achieving success, in something is referred to as "being in your bag."
2. To be on one
Verb - If someone is acting crazy or out of character in a way we say they are "on one."
3. To catch feelings
Verb - When you unintentionally develop an emotional attachment to someone, it's known as "catching feelings."
4. To hit different
Verb - If something has an unexpected impact or effect positively we say it "hits differently."
5. To keep it a buck
Verb - To be honest and truthful about something even if it's unpleasant or unpopular we use the phrase "keeping it a buck."
6. To leave someone on read
Verb - Ignoring someone's message or not replying to them after reading it is commonly called "leaving someone on read " especially when referring to communication.
7. No shade
Noun - The expression "no shade" is used to soften any insult or criticism and indicate that no offense is intended.
8. To put someone on blast
Verb - When someone publicly exposes or criticizes another person on social media platforms we say they are "putting them on blast."
9. To shoot your shot
Verb - Taking a chance or risk, at something particularly involving romance or career opportunities is known as "shooting your shot."
10. To simp
Verb - To overly demonstrate kindness or obsession towards someone you like at the expense of your dignity and self-respect is referred to as "simping."
Region-Specific American Slang
With 50 states in America, each having its demographics, personality, and culture, casual conversation in the United States can vary. Here are some of the regional American slang used in different cities:
New York American slang
In the city of New York, where culture thrives and people from all walks of life come together, a distinct American lingo has emerged. Let's take a look at some examples of US slang and phrases commonly used by New Yorkers.
1. The Big Apple
Noun - It is a nickname given to New York City.
2. Bodega
Noun - Another term for convenience stores that are found on street corners.
3. Slice
Noun - You all know New York for its pizza, this refers to a piece of pizza.
4. The Yankees
Noun - A name calling out a basketball team.
5. 5-0
Noun - A typical slang phrase for the police.
California American slang
California, known for its culture and diverse influences has developed its unique vocabulary. Here are five popular American lingo words and phrases commonly used in California.
1. Cali
Noun - A shortened version of California is often used to refer to the state itself or the distinctive lifestyle associated with it.
2. Hella
Adverb - An intensifier that adds emphasis to "very" or "a lot."
3. Dude
Noun - A term used to address someone commonly heard in California and throughout the West Coast.
4. Gnarly
Adjective - Used to describe something thrilling or risky—often linked to the surf.
5. The Golden State
Noun - A nickname for California that highlights its beauty and abundant sunshine.
Texas American Slang
Texas has a culture and language renowned for its American lingo. Let's take a look, at the 5 Texas slang expressions;
1. Howdy
Interjection - It's a customary Texan greeting for "How do you do?"
2. Y'all
Pronoun - This is a contraction of "you all " commonly used in Texas and the Southern region to address a group of people.
3. Fixin' to
Verb - This phrase indicates that someone is preparing or planning to do something.
4. Bless your heart
Idiom - It's often used to express empathy or sympathy although it can also be employed sarcastically in situations.
5. Lone Star State
Noun - This is a nickname for Texas referring to the star on its state flag.
Chicago American Slang
Chicago, known for its history and distinctive culture has developed its set of unique American lingo. Let's take a look at the 5 American colloquialism words:
1. Chi-Town
Noun - This is a used nickname for Chicago embraced by both locals and visitors
2. Da Bears
Noun - A phrase commonly used to refer to the Chicago Bears, the city's NFL football team.
3. Chi Raq
Noun - A term that combines "Chicago" and "Iraq " is often used to describe neighborhoods with significant levels of violence.
4. Windy City
Noun - Another known moniker for Chicago originated from its blustery weather conditions. Contrary to belief it isn't about wind speed but also references the politician's tendency to engage in rhetoric.
5. Lolla
Noun - Short for Lollapalooza, a music festival held in Grant Park, Chicago.
Florida American slang
Florida, not just famous for Walt Disney World, is also famous for its unique US slang. Here are the top 5 American colloquialisms in Florida, along with their meanings:
1. Acere
Noun - This term means “friend” or “homie.” It’s used in southern Florida to refer to someone you’re close to.
2. America’s Wang
Noun - A humorous nickname for the entire state of Florida, referencing its distinctive phallic shape.
3. Bap
Noun - Refers to something broken, useless, or outdated.
4. Bih
Noun - A versatile term that can replace almost any noun, describing objects, people, or places.
5. Florida Bath
Noun - When someone gets clean by taking a dip in their pool instead of showering or bathing.
Hawaiian American slang
A haole (pronounced howlee) might not know their a’a (ah-ah) from their pāhoehoe (puh-hoy-hoy) when it comes to Hawaiian American lingo. Here are the top 5 American colloquialism words in Hawaiian with their meanings.
1. Chang
Verb - This pidgin word means to be frugal or have a tight wallet, aka cheap.
2. Choke
Adjective - In Hawaiian pidgin, “choke” means to have a lot of something.
3. Brah
Noun - A term used to address someone, similar to “bro” or “dude.”
4. Kama’aina
Noun - Refers to a local resident or someone familiar with Hawaiian culture and lifestyle.
5. Ono
Adjective - Describes something delicious or tasty, often used to talk about food. For example: “This plate lunch is ono!”
Louisiana American slang
In New Orleans and throughout Louisiana, people have a unique American lingo. Here are the top 5 American colloquialism words from Louisiana with their meanings:
1. Lagniappe
Noun - Derived from Louisiana French, this term means “something extra.” It’s a nod to Louisiana’s generous spirit.
2. Choot
Noun - An exclamation of disbelief or surprise. When you hear something unbelievable, respond with “Choot!” Louisiana’s lively culture calls for expressive reactions.
3. Cher
Noun - A term of endearment akin to “dear.” It reflects Louisiana’s Southern charm and hospitality. So go ahead, call someone “cher” with a smile!
4. Fais-do-do
Noun - This term translates to “let the good times roll”
5. Papa Noel
Noun - Papa Noel is none other than Santa Clause! But for many Louisianians, and especially to Cajuns, he’s Papa Noel.
New Jersey American slang
New Jersey has its unique American lingo, defined by the Oxford Reference Dictionary as "a type of language that consists of words and phrases that are regarded as very informal, are more common in speech than writing, and are typically restricted to a particular context or group of people." Here are the top 5 American colloquialism words from New Jersey with their meanings:
1. AC
Noun - In many other states, “AC” means air conditioning, but in New Jersey, it refers to Atlantic City.
2. All Good
Adjective - This expression is used to excuse something or accept an apology. It’s similar to saying “it’s okay.”
3. Benny
Noun - A term referring to people from New York or northern New Jersey who visit the Jersey Shore as tourists. It’s often used in an obnoxious context. The letters in “Benny” stand for Bayonne, Elizabeth, Newark, and New York.
4. Disco Fries
Noun - These are the New Jersey version of poutine. Disco fries consist of French fries smothered in cheese and gravy.
5. Down the Shore
Noun - While New Jersey is known for its beautiful beaches, locals don’t say they’re “going to the beach.” Instead, they say they’re “going down the shore.”
American Jargon with Texts Abbreviation
American slangs are not just limited verbally but has now become a major part of the messaging language. Here are some of the most widely used American jargon:
1. LOL
It’s an American jargon for “Laughing out loud”- used to express amusement or laughter in online conversations.
2. ASAP
This American jargon for “As soon as possible” is often used when someone wants something done quickly.
3. FYI
American jargon for “For your information,” is a way to share information or facts with someone.
4. G2G
This American jargon for “Got to go” indicates that someone is leaving or ending a conversation.
5. FB
FB is a popular American jargon for Facebook.
In this exploration of US slang, we have discovered a wide range of regional American slang that mirrors the diverse culture and rich history of different places in the US. From the timeless "cool”, to treasures like "y'all" and "fuhgeddaboudit," these US slang presents a depiction of how language evolves and adjusts to the constantly changing landscape of the country.
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