Among the words and phrases that made the cut are “the ick” (sudden dislike or disgust), “boop” (gentle, affectionate touch on the nose), “chef’s kiss” (perfect), “IYKYK” (if you know, you know) and several gaming terms.
IYKYK. And if you don’t, consult the Cambridge Dictionary, which should now be the go-to source for older generations who complain about the obtuseness of Gen Z-speak. The first generation to grow up entirely in the internet era has reshaped language to such an extent that venerable institutions like the Cambridge Dictionary have had to take note, adding 3,200 new words to the 1.5 billion already officially recognised.
Among the words and phrases that made the cut are “the ick” (sudden dislike or disgust), “boop” (gentle, affectionate touch on the nose), “chef’s kiss” (perfect), “IYKYK” (if you know, you know) and several gaming terms.
The criteria for inclusion, according to the dictionary’s editors, is “staying power”. Considering that slang from previous generations has more or less disappeared from everyday language — does anyone really use, or even understand, “the bee’s knees” anymore? — the fact that over 3,000 Gen Z words are believed to have the longevity to outlast those who coined them speaks of deeper changes in how language is used today. A notable — and polarising — feature has been the tendency to dispense with formal language, allowing slang to cross over into official settings — for example, the use of work email sign-offs like “lukewarm regards”, “stay hydrated queens” or “live, laugh, leave me alone”.
It could be argued that such a casual attitude to language even in the most serious of settings is only to be expected from a generation that has come of age in a time of great instability. The unique frustration of growing up in a time of pandemic, wars and record-high unemployment and temperatures demands a unique vocabulary. To be able to collectively express “the ick” about the state of the world today may be one way for young people to “slay, serve, survive”.
© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd
First uploaded on: 31-07-2024 at 07:30 IST
