Do you find yourself scratching your head when you hear American slang words? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. American English is rich with slang that can be confusing, especially for non-native English speakers. In this article, we’ll decode 20 popular American slang words and provide their meanings. Let’s dive in and expand your vocabulary!
1. Lit
Meaning: When something is “lit,” it means it’s exciting, cool, or amazing.
2. YOLO
Meaning: YOLO stands for “You Only Live Once,” and it’s used to justify taking risks or doing something adventurous.
3. Bae
Meaning: Bae is an abbreviation for “before anyone else,” used as a term of endearment for a significant other or loved one.
4. FOMO
Meaning: FOMO stands for “Fear Of Missing Out,” referring to the anxiety of missing out on exciting or interesting experiences.
5. Chill
Meaning: When someone says “chill,” it means to relax, take it easy, or remain calm.
6. Gucci
Meaning: Gucci is used to describe something that’s good, cool, or high-quality.
7. Savage
Meaning: Savage refers to someone or something that’s fierce, ruthless, or brutally honest.
8. Hangry
Meaning: Hangry is a combination of “hungry” and “angry” and describes the irritable feeling one gets when they’re hungry.
9. Salty
Meaning: Salty is used to describe someone who’s bitter, angry, or upset about something.
10. Squad
Meaning: Squad refers to a close group of friends or a crew.
11. Thirsty
Meaning: Thirsty describes someone who’s desperate or overly eager for attention, usually romantically.
12. On fleek
Meaning: On fleek means something is perfect, flawless, or well put together.
13. Ghosting
Meaning: Ghosting refers to abruptly cutting off all communication with someone, usually in a romantic context.
14. Tea
Meaning: Tea refers to gossip or juicy information about someone or something.
15. Woke
Meaning: Woke describes being socially aware, particularly about issues of racial and social justice.
16. Flex
Meaning: Flexing means showing off or bragging about one’s accomplishments, possessions, or skills.
17. Lit AF
Meaning: Lit AF is an intensified version of “lit,” meaning something is extremely exciting or amazing.
18. Clout
Meaning: Clout refers to influence, power, or social status.
19. Basic
Meaning: Basic describes someone who conforms to mainstream trends and lacks individuality or originality.
20. Throw shade
Meaning: To throw shade means to subtly or indirectly criticize or insult someone.
Now that you have a better understanding of these confusing American slang words, you can navigate conversations with ease. Remember, slang is ever-evolving, so it’s essential to stay updated. Keep exploring and expanding your vocabulary to truly grasp the colorful world of American English!
