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The language of today

Could you make a "GRWM"? Here's modern slang you need to know!

If you scroll through social media for even a few minutes, you'll likely come across terms like "bussin'" or "amped" and unusual abbreviations like "GRWM" or "IYKYK." Do you know what they mean? If you want to stay up to date with these and other trending slang terms, don't miss this article!

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Extra

Some people are reserved and discreet, while others are just "extra." This slang term describes someone who is exaggerated, overly dramatic, or excessive—does anyone come to mind?

If a friend shows up to a casual hangout in an extravagant outfit or makes a big deal out of something insignificant, you can call them "extra."

Image: Obie Fernandez

GRWM

A popular abbreviation on TikTok is "GRWM." It's so well-known that you've probably heard it before.

Since fashion influencers often share videos about their outfits or ask for clothing advice, "GRWM" stands for "Get Ready With Me." With this phrase, video creators make viewers feel like part of their daily lives and invite them to join their digital adventures.

Image: Alexander Shatov

Bussin'

When it comes to flattery, "bussin'" is the term you need to speak today’s language. Something described as "bussin'" is exceptionally good, impressive, or exquisite. While it's most commonly used to describe food—like in "That Burger was just bussin'"—it can also be used to compliment other things or actions.

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Mid

Contrary to the previous term, "mid" is used to describe something as average or unimpressive. While it isn’t necessarily negative, it implies that a performance, dish, or speech wasn’t exactly the best you’ve seen.

"Mid" comes from the word "middle," suggesting that what you're referring to is neither good nor bad—it's just somewhere in the middle.

Image: Eran Menashri

Spill the tea

If someone asks you to spill the tea, they’re not asking you to make a mess on the snack table—they want something much more interesting.

"Spill the tea" is a slang expression used to ask someone to share juicy gossip. If you love drama or want to stay up to date with the latest news and scandals, this phrase will come in handy. As for its origin, some suggest that "spill the tea" may have evolved from an earlier phrase with a similar meaning: "spill the beans."

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IYKYK

While it may look like a word from a strange, distant language, "IYKYK" is actually an abbreviation for "If you know, you know." It's great for those inside jokes you share with your friends or recalling moments that only a select group was part of. You know, something intimate, secret, or exclusive.

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GOAT

What do Michael Jordan, Aretha Franklin, Babe Ruth, Frank Sinatra, Anthony Hopkins, and Serena Williams have in common? Well, they're all GOATs! But what does that mean?

"GOAT" doesn’t refer to the adorable animal—it stands for "Greatest of All Time." That's right! This term is used to describe those who truly stand out as the best in their field, discipline, or art.

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No Cap/Cap

It seems that saying "true" or "false" has gone out of fashion. The new trend is to say "no cap" or its opposite, "cap." As you might guess, these terms relate to truthfulness, honesty, and authenticity.

If a friend says, "The show was incredible, no cap," they’re assuring you they’re telling the truth. But if someone hears a suspicious story and calls out "cap," they’re likely calling it a lie.

Image: Jakob Owens

Amped

Have you been on Cloud Nine lately? If so, there's a perfect slang term for you: "amped." This adjective describes someone who’s excited about something or simply feeling really, really happy.

The term originated in the 1980s as a shortened form of "amplified," originally referring to someone highly charged with energy. Over time, it became associated with excitement and joy and has recently made a comeback, especially on social media.

Image: Austin Schmid

Bet

If you're talking with a group of teens and you want to express your agreement with something, just say, "Bet." This short word is commonly used today to mean "Yes," "Exactly," "That’s it," or "Let’s do it."

As you might have guessed, it was born in the gambling world and is tied to that feeling of confidence or certainty needed when placing a bet.

Image: Ursula Castillo