English Slang on Social Media
Confused by words and expressions you're seeing online or hearing fluent English speakers use? Slang changes so quickly that sometimes even native speakers have trouble understanding!
We can't explain every slang term, of course, but here are a few of the more common ones you should know.
Sus
This is short for "suspicious." Just like the longer word, it's used to talk about situations, locations or even people that/who seem dangerous or unpleasant.
- This neighborhood can be a little sus, so be careful.
- That guy in the corner looks pretty sus. Do you know him?
Drip
Unlike the verb form, which refers to a small amount of falling liquid, this slang term is a noun related to fashion.
"Drip" particularly means stylish or fancy clothes and accessories. This term, like many others, began as slang in African-American communities.
- She came back from her shopping trip with serious drip.
- Antwan never attends a party without the newest drip.
You can also say "dripping," as in the following example:
- Max is dripping in Supreme today.
Ded
"Ded" is a misspelling of "dead" and is used as a reaction to something very funny, surprising or embarrassing.
- That meme has me ded.
- I just got tickets to Taylor Swift's concert. I'm ded!
ofc
These three letters are short for "of course."
A
Are you coming to the party tonight?
B
ofc, see you there
Slap
The original meaning of this word is to hit something with an open hand. But as slang, something that "slaps" is great.
- This song slaps. Turn it up!
It's often used to talk about music, but it can refer to other things too.
- This pasta slaps! Did you make it?
Yeet
"Yeet" can be used in more than one way. When it first became popular, it was something people would say when dancing. But now it's used similarly to exclamations like "Yes!" when someone is very excited or happy.
- I got a perfect score on my test. Yeet!
It's also an informal verb that means "to throw."
- He got frustrated with the game and yeeted the controller across the room.
This meaning can also be figurative.
- I yeeted that video up on YouTube last night, but I didn't expect it to go viral!
NGL
This is short for "not gonna lie." It indicates that the speaker is being completely honest.
- No one else likes that movie, but I love it, ngl.
- NGL, she's nicer than I expected her to be.
Low key
In its regular usage, "low-key" is an adjective that describes something that is not flashy or attempting to attract attention.
- The hotel lounge has a calm and low-key decor that's perfect for a relaxing dinner or drinks.
In social media and in daily conversations, "low key" is used to talk about things that are secret or not well known.
- These are low key the best burgers in town.
- Low key, I think I'm in love with Tanya.
Destim
"Destim" is a verb that means "to calm down" or "to reduce pressure or stress."
This uses the prefix "de-," which often refers to the negative or opposite of the rest of the word. In this case, it connects with "stim," which is short for "stimulate."
- I'm starting to feel a bit anxious in here. I'm going outside for a moment to destim.
- It's hard getting my kids to destim before bed; they're so energetic!
Delulu
"Delulu" is a shortened form of "delusional." These are both adjectives describing someone who has beliefs that do not match with reality. In other words, they seem to believe things that are not true.
- If you think the Giants are going to win the championship game, you're delulu.
- The politician made some really delulu statements during the debate. Does he actually believe that stuff?
Soft life
It's common for fluent English speakers to say "hard life" when referring to a life with lots of challenges and difficulties. More recently, however, the slang term "soft life" has become popular as a way to describe the opposite — a life with no stress or worries. Sounds nice, doesn't it?
- He comes from a rich family, so he only knows the soft life.
- I'm on vacation all week, so nothing but sun, beaches and relaxation! #SoftLife
Wrap-Up
If you're interested in learning more English slang, book a lesson with one of our online tutors.
Engoo has native and fluent English speakers around the world who can help you stay up to date with the latest expressions you'll see on social media and hear on the streets.
