Are you intrigued about the different Gen Z slang terms you hear in Singapore because you receive text messages with phrases such as ‘Tbh,’ ‘Tbf,’ ‘Iykyk,’ ‘It’s giving,’ and many more but don’t understand what they mean?

You’re in the right place!

I’m here to spill the tea on all the lit lingo that’s got the younger generation talking, flexin’, and vibin’!

List of Gen Z Slang Terms in Singapore

I’ve listed some of the Gen Z slang terms I know well to get you started:

• AF
• Bae
• Bet
• Big Brain
• Burn
• Cancel Culture
• Chad
• Cheugy
• Clapped
• Clout
• Cringy
• Dank
• Drip
• Finna
• Flex
• FOMO
• GOAT
• Ghosted
• I Can’t Even
• IG
• Ion
• It’s Giving
• IYKK
• Karen
• Lowkey
• Mom/Dad
• No Cap
• On Fleek
• Ok Boomer
• Purr
• Rizz
• Savage
• Simp
• Smh
• Squad
• Sus
• Spill the Tea
• Thirsty
• Understood the Assignment
• Woke
• Yeet

Let’s talk about these Gen Z lingos in detail:

AF (As F**k)

AF stands for “As F**k,” and it’s like emphasizing something strongly.

When Gen Z drops this term, it’s like they’re adding an emphasis to something and taking things to the next level.

For example, you’re chowing down on the most mouthwatering pizza you’ve ever had. You took a bite, closed your eyes, and then exclaimed, “This pizza is good AF!” 

Translation: the pizza is so mind-blowingly delicious that it defies all expectations. It’s like giving something a turbo boost of awesomeness.

Bae

Bae is not exactly new, but Gen Z has wholeheartedly adopted this term.

It’s short for “before anyone else,” and it’s all about showing love and affection. 

For example, you’re chatting with your best friend, and she starts gushing about their significant other.

“He’s my bae,” she says with a big smile.

In this context, she refers to the person as her absolute number one, the most special and cherished person in her life.

Bet

You can use “bet” in different situations.

For instance, your friend suggests grabbing coffee tomorrow morning, and you’re totally down for it. You nod and say, “Bet!” 

In this case, it’s like saying, “Deal! I’m in.”

If someone challenges you to a game, and you’re up for the challenge, you can respond with this Gen Z term as a way of saying, “You’re on!”

Big Brain

Big brain is not about the actual size of your brain but more about flexing your intellectual muscles.

When someone says you’ve got a big brain, they’re giving you mad props for being super smart or making a clever move.

It’s like giving a virtual high-five to someone’s brainpower.

Burn

Burn is a word that Gen Z use to add some sizzle to an argument.

It’s used when someone gets roasted or playfully insulted in a funny way. It’s like adding a spicy twist to a conversation when they drop this slang.

It’s all in good fun, like when your friend teases you for being late to the party, and you can come back with, “At least I’ve been late only once, unlike you—ouch, burn!” 

You may think of it as a friendly jab but with some humor.

Bussin’

When we say that something is “bussin’,” we’re not just talking about good food; we’re talking about food that’s off the charts, mind-blowingly delicious.

It’s that moment when your taste buds go on a rollercoaster ride of flavors, and you can’t help but savor every bite.

It’s like inviting everyone to join in on the deliciousness and saying, “Hey, you’ve gotta try this! It’s seriously tasty!”

Cancel Culture

Cancel culture is like hitting the mute button on your TV remote. 

As a Gen Z, it’s our way of holding individuals accountable for their actions, especially when they’ve done something wrong or offensive.

For example, if a celebrity makes a controversial statement or a company engages in unethical practices, that’s when cancel culture swoops in.

When Gen Z decides to cancel someone or something, it means they’re rallying the troops to boycott, criticize, or publicly shame the offender.

The key here is accountability. This Gen Z term is often seen as a way for the younger generation to use their collective power to demand better behavior and change from those who have influence.

However, like anything else, there are debates about whether cancel culture goes too far sometimes, leading to hasty judgments or even mob mentality.

But at its core, it’s about promoting social justice, ethics, and responsibility. 

Chad

“Chad” refers to a person who’s the embodiment of confidence, often bordering on arrogance, and he’s rocking that macho vibe like it’s going out of style.

It’s all in good fun, though, and usually, it’s used humorously to poke a little fun at someone who fits this stereotype.

You may also consider Chad as that guy who always seems to have it all figured out, strutting around like he owns the place and effortlessly charming everyone around him. 

So, if you hear someone say, “Oh, there goes Chad again, flexing his muscles and flashing that winning smile,” he’s not necessarily dissing the guy.

It’s more like nodding to his confident, sometimes over-the-top demeanor.

Cheugy

This term is like a fashion and style critique rolled into one. Gen Z use it to throw shade at something they consider outdated or, let’s say, not exactly on fleek.

It’s all about poking fun at things that scream “Millennial” and might be seen as trying too hard to be trendy.

So, when you hear your friends say, “That style is so cheugy,” they’re basically calling out a fashion or lifestyle choice that’s fallen behind the times.

Clapped

When Gen Z says something is clapped, they’re not talking about giving someone a round of applause. Instead, it’s a term to describe something downright bad or ugly.

It’s like calling out the flaws or shortcomings in a not-so-subtle way.

For instance, you stumbled upon a website with pixelated images and a chaotic layout that looks like it hasn’t been updated since the early 2000s. That’s when you’d say, “That website looks clapped.”

It’s a way to express your disappointment or disapproval, like giving a digital thumbs-down.

This slang term is a quick and straightforward way to share your less-than-enthusiastic opinion about something that misses the mark.

Clout

When someone’s got “clout,” it means he’s not just another face in the digital crowd; he’s got major influence. You may think of it as having a strong social media game.

If someone’s posts or opinions go viral, he’s definitely clout-worthy. It’s like being the cool kid in the digital neighborhood.

When you hear your group of friends talking about someone having “clout,” you should know by now that they’re acknowledging their popularity and influence.

Clown

In Gen Z slang, clown is more like a playful jab than a harsh insult. It’s used when someone does something a little foolish or silly, and it’s all in good fun.

For instance, you’re hanging out with your friends, and one of them accidentally spills their drink all over the table.

Instead of getting upset, you might give them a good-natured ribbing by saying, “You’re such a clown!”

It’s a way of lightening the mood and making everyone laugh.

We all have our clown moments occasionally, and using this slang term can bring people closer together by creating a lighthearted atmosphere.

Cringy

In Gen Z slang, cringy is used when we shine on things that make us feel awkward or downright uncomfortable.

It’s like that feeling when you see someone attempting a painfully unfunny dance move at a party. You might say, “Oh man, that was so cringy.”

This also describes a feeling of secondhand embarrassment or even having that involuntary facepalm moment.

Drip

Drip describes how you rock what you’re wearing.

That confidence, that swagger that turns heads when you walk down the street. It’s like you’re a walking fashion statement, and everyone’s taking notes.

You may think of it as the ultimate fashion flex.

It’s acknowledging and celebrating someone’s exceptional style and giving props where they’re due. 

FOMO

FOMO means “fear of missing out.” It can apply to anything that makes you feel like you’re missing out on an incredible experience.

It could be a new food trend everyone is raving about, and you haven’t tried it yet.

Or there’s a limited-time sale, and you’re worried you won’t snag that awesome deal.

So, the next time you hear someone say, “If I don’t go to that party, I’ll get major FOMO,” 

This means she’s describing that anxiety-inducing feeling that they might miss out on a fantastic experience.

Flex

If you hear someone say, “Stop flexing, bro,” he’s not referring to a buff working out in the gym.

In Gen Z lingo, “flex” means showing off or bragging about something you have or did. 

For example, you’re chatting with your friend, and he’s going on and on about how amazing his weekend was, how he went skydiving, and how he met a celebrity at a coffee shop.

And you can’t help but think, “Are you for real? That sounds like just a total flex!”

But this term does not always showcase a negative meaning.

Flex can also mean you’re proud of your accomplishments and want to show the world the fruit of your hard work.

Fr

Fr is short for “for real.” It’s a quick and casual way to confirm that you agree or express genuine sincerity.

For example, “That new movie is so good, fr!”

This term may be a quick way of showing that you mean what you say and are not just throwing words around.

Ghosted

You know, “ghosted” is one of those slang terms that’s been around the block for a while, but it’s still alive and kicking in Gen Z culture. 

It describes someone who just suddenly vanished from your life with no explanation. It’s like he disappeared into thin air, leaving you hanging and wondering what on earth happened.

This Gen Z lingo captures that feeling of being left in the dark, not knowing why someone you were connecting with suddenly decided to go radio silent.

It’s a term that perfectly encapsulates the mystery and sometimes frustration of modern dating and digital communication.

GOAT

If you’re chatting with a Gen Z in Singapore and he refers to someone or something as the “GOAT,” he’s not talking about a farm animal.

It stands for “greatest of all time.” It’s a high compliment reserved for the best of the best.

Suppose someone tells you, “That hawker stall selling chicken rice is the GOAT.” This means the stall’s chicken rice is legendary, and you must try it as soon as possible!

I Can’t Even

“I can’t even,” is often used in overwhelming situations where you can’t utter more words.

It’s like your brain is on the verge of short-circuiting because what you’re witnessing is so incredibly amazing or frustrating that it leaves you temporarily speechless.

Ion

“Ion” is a creative abbreviation for “I don’t.”

It’s often used in a casual conversation when someone wants to express that he doesn’t care or doesn’t want to do something.

When you hear someone dropping this word in a conversation, you know he’s not about to go on a rant or dive into a lengthy explanation. 

It’s the word that slips out when someone wants to convey a sense of nonchalance, whether it’s about making plans, sharing opinions, or simply brushing something off.

Let’s say your friend suggests going to a karaoke night, but you’re not feeling it. You might respond with a casual “Ion karaoke tonight.”

It’s Giving

When someone drops this “It’s giving” phrase into a conversation, he’s not just casually talking about any old situation or appearance.

This slang term may be a way of adding a bit of flair and personal touch to your observations. It’s like injecting some extra personality into your remarks.

For instance, if you walk into a coffee shop with a cozy, rustic ambiance, you might say, “This place? “It’s giving major ‘cabin in the woods’ vibe.”

Instead of simply saying it looks like a cabin, you’ve elevated it to a new level.

IYKYK

When someone says “IYKYK,” he’s letting you in on a little slice of insider knowledge, almost like saying, “Hey, I know you know what I mean, and if you don’t, you might want to catch up on this soon!”

Think of this slang term as a virtual nod and a wink in the digital age, a way for cool kids to acknowledge their shared experiences and interests without spelling everything out. 

Karen

“Karen” describes the person who believes the world revolves around her every whim, ready to demand the manager at the slightest inconvenience.

We’ve all encountered a “Karen” or two in our lives, and it’s only natural that this amusingly accurate slang term emerged to describe them.

It’s like an inside joke among the younger generation, a way to collectively roll our eyes and chuckle when we encounter such behavior.

Lowkey

Lowkey is a way to describe the feeling when you’re excited or thrilled about something, but you’re not going all out about it.

It’s like describing a situation that you’re keeping on the down low.

For instance, if you’re a Marvel fan and you hear a new superhero movie coming out, you might be “lowkey excited.”

It means you’re secretly thrilled but not wearing a cape to work or discussing the movie’s intricate plot details at the water cooler. You’re just quietly looking forward to it.

Mom/Dad

In Gen Z lingo, “Mom” and “Dad” are the ultimate terms of endearment.

When a group tags you with one of these titles, you’re the stylish trendsetter, and they idolize you.

It’s like getting a badge of honor for your fashion sense and general coolness.

But oftentimes, it refers to a couple being fantasized by teenagers as their pretend parents.

No Cap

Speaking of honesty, “no cap” is another Gen Z slang term you’ll encounter frequently. 

When someone says this, it means they’re being completely honest or not exaggerating in any way.

So, if your friend tells you, “No Cap, that burger joint has the best fries in town,” you can trust their judgment. It’s a way to vouch for the authenticity of what they’re saying.

On Fleek

If you’ve ever been told your eyebrows are “on fleek,” you should take it as a huge compliment!

This term describes something that’s flawlessly perfect, especially regarding appearance.

Ok, Boomer

“Ok, boomer” is a Gen Z term used when a younger individual feels that an older person isn’t quite grasping modern life’s nuances, especially regarding technology, social issues, or pop culture.

For instance, if your dad insists on using a flip phone while you’re navigating the latest smartphone trends, you might jokingly respond with an “Ok Boomer” to highlight the generation gap.

I wouldn’t recommend using these words, though, as we should still pay our respect to older generations no matter the generation gap.

Purr

This term is often used to describe something that’s sensually pleasing or attractive. It’s a way to express admiration or desire subtly. 

When someone describes something as “purr,” they’re basically saying that it’s sensually pleasing or incredibly attractive. 

Rizz

This term is like a secret code for those who want to kick back, relax, and take it easy. 

For example, your friend, who’s usually up for all sorts of adventures, declines your invitation to a high-energy dance party with a casual “I just want to rizz tonight.”

It means they’re in the mood for a laid-back evening, a cozy night with a good book, or a chill Netflix binge.

But here’s where it gets more interesting: this Gen Z slang can also be a sly way to flirt with someone. 

You might ask your friend, “Did he just rizz at her?” In this context, “rizz” signifies a subtle yet undeniable attraction.

Salty

Feeling a bit “salty” is not about snack preferences. This quirky Gen Z term describes when someone acts a tad bitter or upset about something. 

For example, you and your friends are deep into a board game night and lose a round. Instead of taking it in stride, you might sulk or throw in a sarcastic comment or two. 

That’s when your friends might give you a playful nudge and say, “Oh, look who’s feeling salty because they lost!”

It’s essential to remember that when they call you “salty,” it’s not meant to be mean-spirited.

It’s all in the spirit of friendly banter and a lighthearted way of teasing you for not taking the loss too well. 

Savage

“Savage” has been around for a while, but it’s still very much in use. This can mean being brutally honest, witty, and unapologetic.

It’s often used to describe someone fearless in their comebacks or actions.

If your friends say, “That comeback was savage,” they give you props for a sharp and fearless response.

Simp

This term is often used to playfully tease someone for overly praising or fawning over someone they admire, usually in a romantic context.

It’s not necessarily an insult but more of a friendly jab.

So, if your friend tells you you’re a “simp” for constantly complimenting your crush, she’s just teasing you about your infatuation.

Skrrt

“Skrrt”! This little word is like a burst of enthusiasm in your conversations.

For example, your friends scored a perfect ten on their assignment, and you can feel their excitement through the screen.

Instead of a standard “Congratulations,” you can spice things up with a lively “Skrrt!”

Smh

“Smh” stands for “shaking my head” or sometimes “so much hate.” It’s when you want to express disbelief, disappointment, or frustration.

Imagine your friend messaged you she forgot her wallet at your home, and you can’t help but shake your head in disbelief.

Instead of doing it physically, you can just text her back, “smh!”

Sus

“Sus” is short for “suspicious.” It’s used when something seems questionable or sketchy.

For instance, if someone offers you a deal that sounds too good to be true, you might reply with a simple “That’s sus.”

This Gen Z slang term is your secret code for something that seems wrong.

Squad

The term “Squad” has been around for a while, but Gen Z has given it a fresh spin. Your “squad” is your tight-knit group of friends, your go-to crew for adventures and good times. So, if you and your friends are inseparable, you can proudly call yourselves a “squad.”

Slay

“Slay” is all about dominating and excelling in something. When someone says, “You slay,” they compliment your impressive performance or style.

So, if you see someone rocking an amazing outfit, you can tell them, “You slay that look!”

Spill the Tea

“Spill the Tea” is about sharing the latest gossip or juicy information. It’s like saying, “Tell me everything!”

Thirsty

In Gen Z slang, “thirsty” refers to someone overly eager for attention or validation.

So, if someone constantly seeks compliments or posts attention-seeking content on social media, they might be described as “thirsty.”

Understood the Assignment

This Gen Z lingo is used when someone has gone above and beyond, not because she was told to, but because she grasped the situation perfectly.

It’s like being in a meeting where everyone is asked to bring a dish for a potluck, and your friend arrives not only with a dish but also decorations, music, and even a game board.

You may think of it as a friendly way of saying, “You nailed it, even though we didn’t ask for it!”

It’s all about acknowledging creativity, intuition, and a deep understanding of the context.

Woke

Being “woke” means being super socially aware and informed about all sorts of issues, especially the big ones like social justice and inequality.

It’s like having your finger on the pulse of the world’s problems and not just shrugging them off but saying, “Hey, I want to make a positive change here.”

It’s also about caring deeply, staying informed, and actively working towards positive change in the world. 

This also refers to having a heart full of empathy and a mind full of knowledge and then using that combination to make a real difference. 

Yeet

“Yeet” is a Gen Z slang about enthusiasm and excitement.

For example, you’re at the office, feeling restless, and you spot a crumpled piece of paper across the room.

Instead of lazily tossing it into the trash can, you channel your inner NBA player and launch it in an epic arc that lands perfectly in the bin.

In that moment of triumph, you can’t help but shout, “Yeet!”

Sometimes, it’s a humorous way of making fun of how someone throws an object.

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So there you have it—the Gen Z slang terms to add to your modern vocabulary!

Remember, language is always evolving, and new terms are constantly popping up, so staying curious and open-minded is essential to keep up with the younger generations. 

With this Gen Z dictionary, you can now confidently vibe with the younger crowd!

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