Cracking the Code: Teenage Lingo

Teenagers and their evolving language are baffling to adults. Here you will learn how to decode teens and stay up to date so you can communicate with them.

“Sus” – short for suspicious, “Sus” is used to describe something that doesn’t seem right or trustworthy. If a teenager says, “That situation looks sus,” they are questioning its legitimacy.

“Ghosting” – “Ghosting” is when someone suddenly stops responding to messages or communication without explanation. Teenagers often use it when discussing dating or friendship issues, such as, “He’s been ghosting me for weeks.”

“Extra” – When a teenager calls someone “extra,” they mean that person is being overly dramatic, extravagant, or attention-seeking. It’s often used in a humorous or slightly mocking way. 

"Cap" – When a teenager says "cap" or "no cap," they are indicating whether they are telling the truth or not. "Cap" means they're lying, while "no cap" means they're being honest. For example, "I aced that test, no cap."

"I'm Dead" – is used when something is extremely funny or shocking. Teenagers often type "I'm dead" in response to a hilarious meme or a surprising story, much like "LOL."

"Woke" – "Woke" originally referred to being socially aware or conscious of social issues and inequalities. Now, it's often used ironically or humorously, and sometimes in a way that pokes fun at those who take social justice issues very seriously.

"Bet" – "Bet" is a versatile term that can mean "okay," "sure," or "I agree." It's often used to confirm plans or agreements. For example, if someone asks, "Wanna go to the movies?" and you respond with "Bet," you agree to the plan.

"Lowkey" and "Highkey" – indicate the degree to which someone feels or believes something. "Lowkey" means subtly or secretly, while "highkey" means strongly or openly. For example, "I lowkey like their new song" means you kind of like it, while "I highkey want pizza" means you really want pizza.