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Gen Z Slang Guide for Parents

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Understanding your teen's language can help you connect better and ensure their safety online. This guide categorizes Gen Z slang terms by appropriateness and provides context for parents.

Quick Overview

45+
Safe Terms
10
Monitor
5
Inappropriate

Safe Terms (Generally Harmless)

These terms are commonly used and generally appropriate for most contexts. They're part of normal teen communication.

Bet

Means "okay" or "I agree"

Parent Note: Harmless agreement term

Slay

To do something really well

Parent Note: Positive encouragement term

Fire

Amazing or really good

Parent Note: Positive adjective

Lit

Fun, exciting, or excellent

Parent Note: Positive descriptor

Drip

A cool outfit or great fashion sense

Parent Note: Fashion compliment

Fam

Close friends, like family

Parent Note: Term of endearment

Mood

Relatable feeling or reaction

Parent Note: Expression of relatability

Vibe

The mood or atmosphere

Parent Note: Describing atmosphere

Terms to Monitor

These terms aren't necessarily harmful but may indicate areas where guidance is helpful.

⚠️ When to Be Concerned

If your teen uses these terms excessively or in inappropriate contexts, it may be time for a conversation about appropriate language and behavior.

Ghost

To suddenly cut off communication

Parent Note: Discuss healthy communication and relationship boundaries

Stan

To strongly support or be a fan of someone

Parent Note: Ensure healthy fandom and boundaries

Mewing

Facial exercise technique

Parent Note: Monitor for body image concerns

Touch grass

Telling someone to go outside

Parent Note: Can be healthy reminder about digital wellness

Inappropriate Terms

These terms contain profanity or may be inappropriate for certain contexts. Address usage if heard.

Simp

Someone who does too much for someone they like

Parent Note: Can perpetuate toxic masculinity

Gyatt

Exclamation for seeing someone attractive

Parent Note: Can be objectifying

Catch these hands

A challenge to fight

Parent Note: Promotes violence

IDGAF

I Don't Give A F***

Parent Note: Contains profanity

FAFO

F*** Around and Find Out

Parent Note: Contains profanity

Parent Tips & Guidelines

💡 Stay Informed

Language evolves quickly. Check this guide regularly and ask your teen to explain terms you don't understand.

🗣️ Open Communication

Create an environment where your teen feels comfortable explaining their language. Don't judge immediately - ask for context.

📱 Context Matters

Consider where and how terms are used. What's appropriate among friends may not be suitable for school or family settings.

🎯 Set Boundaries

Establish clear rules about appropriate language at home, school, and in public. Explain why certain terms are problematic.

🔄 Lead by Example

Model respectful communication. Show your teen how to express themselves appropriately in different situations.

When to Be Concerned

🚨 Red Flags

  • Excessive use of inappropriate terms
  • Language that promotes violence or harm
  • Terms used to bully or exclude others
  • Secretive communication patterns
  • Sudden changes in language or behavior

🤝 How to Address Concerns

If you're concerned about your teen's language use, approach the conversation with curiosity rather than judgment. Ask them to explain the context and share your concerns about appropriate communication.

Last updated: October 2025