Gen Z Slangs You Didn’t Know (And How They Can Help You Learn English!)

Learning English doesn't have to be boring!

Discover how Gen Z slang can boost your spoken English skills and make learning more fun, relatable and engaging.

English, But Make It Fun

Learning English used to mean memorizing tenses, completing worksheets and reciting grammar rules. But in 2025, there's a more exciting way: learning the language people actually use.

Gen Z slang is creative, evolving and surprisingly educational. Whether it’s saying something is a "vibe" or calling yourself the "main character," these expressions open a window into real-world, conversational English.

And here’s the best part? You don’t need to be a teenager to enjoy it. This blog is for everyone who wants to speak fluent, natural English while also having a bit of fun.

So let's dive into the world of Gen Z slang and find out how it can actually make you a better English speaker.

Part 1: Why Gen Z Slang Matters for English Learners

1. It reflects real, spoken English

Language is always evolving. Learning slang helps you:

• Understand what native speakers really mean

• Keep up with internet trends and pop culture

• Build confidence in informal conversations

2. It builds listening and comprehension skills

Whether you're watching Netflix, YouTube or scrolling away on TikTok, slang is everywhere. Learning it makes understanding content easier and more enjoyable.

3. It adds personality to your speech

"I’m so tired" vs. "I’m totally done with today" see the difference?
Using slang helps you sound more natural, expressive and confident in the language. 

4. It improves cultural understanding

Language is not just words, it’s a culture. Gen Z slang gives you insight into values, humor and modern lifestyles.

Part 2: Common Gen Z Slang (With Meaning + Examples)

1. Slay

Meaning: To do something really well or look amazing.

• "You slayed that presentation!"

2. No cap

Meaning: I’m not lying / seriously.

• "That was the best pizza ever, no cap."

3. Main character

Meaning: Feeling confident, in control and like your life is a movie.

• "Today I walked into work feeling like the main character."

4. Delulu

Meaning: Short for "delusional," used playfully when you're dreaming big.

• "I’m being delulu but I think he likes me."

5. It’s giving...

Meaning: Used to describe the vibe or energy of something.

• "That outfit? It’s giving CEO vibes."

6. Bet

Meaning: Agreement, approval or challenge.

• "You’re coming to the party? Bet!"

7. Rizz

Meaning: Charisma, especially in flirting.

• "He’s got mad rizz."

8. Touch grass

Meaning: Get offline, go outside, get real.

• "You’ve been on TikTok for 6 hours. Touch grass!"

9. Soft launch

Meaning: Subtly reveal something (like a new relationship).

• "Posted his hand in the story? That’s a soft launch."

10. Hits different

Meaning: Feels uniquely emotional or impactful.

• "This song hits different at 2 AM."

Part 3: Learning English Through Pop Culture

RM from BTS learned English through FRIENDS

Kim Namjoon (RM from BTS) famously taught himself English by watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S on repeat. He didn’t use grammar books, he learned tone, pronunciation and fluency from real conversations.

What can you learn?

• How to use humor and sarcasm

• Casual vs. formal speech

• Real-world vocabulary and slang

Other examples:

• People learning English through Harry Potter, Marvel movies, Taylor Swift interviews or Mr. Beast vlogs.

• The rise of TikTok creators who teach English with memes and pop references.

Part 4: Practical Ways to Learn English with Slang

1. Follow Gen Z influencers

Watch how they speak, what words they use and how they express emotions. It’s free practice!

2. Start using slang in context

Pick 1-2 slang words and use them in casual texts or conversations. (Start with "bet" or "slay.")

3. Watch English content with subtitles

Netflix, YouTube, even TikToks with captions. Pay attention to phrases, not just words, decipher the language and understand it’s meaning in different contexts 

4. Practice with a friend or tutor

Try roleplaying fun scenarios like ordering coffee, going on a date or talking about your day using slang.

5. Keep a "Slang Journal"

Write new phrases you learn and their meanings. Try using them in sentences.

Part 5: Real Life Benefits of Slang in Language Learning

1. You’ll make faster connections

Knowing how to say "I am dead" or "no cap" helps break the ice, especially with younger native speakers.

2. You’ll feel more confident

When your English sounds real and current, you’ll stop second-guessing yourself in conversation.

3. You’ll sound more fluent

Understanding informal expressions is a sign of language mastery. It shows you "get" the culture.

Part 6: Slang Words to Avoid (and Why)

Not all slang is classroom-friendly. Here are some tips:

• Avoid slang that’s rude, inappropriate or offensive.

• Always check the context (some words mean different things in different cultures).

• When in doubt, ask a trusted English speaker.

English Isn’t Just a Language. It’s a Vibe. 🌟

Gen Z slang isn’t just about sounding cool, it’s about feeling connected. When you learn how people actually talk, you become part of the conversation. You understand the jokes, the tone and majorly the context.

So next time someone says, "That book slayed," or "It hits different," you won’t be confused, you’ll be fluent.

And remember, language learning should be fun, flexible and should feel like you.

Bonus: Try These Out in Your Next Conversation

• "This playlist? It’s giving life."

• "No cap, I aced that test."

• "Feeling like the main character today."

Watch this fun video for more clarity: IELTS QUIZ with different levels 

Want to learn English in a fun, modern way?
Join our spoken English classes at GuidElearn! From grammar to Gen Z, we teach it all.

✅ Book your free demo now: GuidElearn 

(Gen Z slang, learn spoken English, BTS RM English, English with Netflix, slang in English learning, modern English vocabulary)