- Is someone living rent-free in your mind? Spill the tea!
- Some of today’s most popular phrases come from memes, viral videos and other online spaces
How many of these popular phrases have you heard online? Photo: ShutterstockFrom memes and viral videos to abbreviations and acronyms, new slang terms are constantly emerging in today’s digital world. This week, we will explore 11 popular phrases to keep you up-to-date and add some fun to your interactions with others.
It’s giving
Meaning: a generally positive phrase used to acknowledge someone’s or something’s look or vibe
Example: John made a short movie documenting our family trip last December, and it’s definitely giving Christmas.
Tea
Meaning: Originating from the phrase “spill the tea”, “tea” refers to gossip or sensational information.
Example: I have not seen my brother for three years, and I cannot wait to meet him and spill the tea about everything happening in our lives.
Rent-free
Meaning: when someone or something occupies another person’s thoughts or attention as if living inside their head
Example: I know he is bothering you – but what’s the point of letting this person live in your head rent-free?
Drip
Meaning: someone who is fashionable, stylish, or has a unique and trendy look. Often associated with hip-hop culture, the term has become increasingly popular online in recent years.
Example: Noah’s outfit at the party had so much drip that it caught everyone’s attention.
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Nail to a T
Meaning: to do something perfectly and precisely. It can also mean accurately following instructions or meeting expectations. “To a T” originates from the phrase “to a tittle,” which refers to a small mark or stroke that suggests something has been done with meticulous precision and attention to detail.
Example: My brother followed a recipe he found online and nailed the dish to a T, impressing everyone in our family.
Sus
Meaning: suspicious
Example: This is getting sus – my brother has never studied so religiously for an exam. I bet mum offered him a prize if he did well.
Bad take
Meaning: an ill-reasoned opinion or error in judgment.
Example: Requiring actors to darken their skin to portray characters of different races is a bad take.
Iykyk
Meaning: Stands for “if you know, you know”
Example: Finding a great pair of jeans at a thrift store is an unbeatable feeling – Iykyk.
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Low key
Meaning: something done in a subtle, discreet, or understated way. It can also describe someone’s personality or behaviour, suggesting they are modest, unassuming, and not attention-seeking.
Example: After watching a new reality show about gruelling physical challenges, I low key want to set an exercise goal and work on my body shape.
On fleek
Meaning: perfect or flawless.
Example: Jacqueline’s goal is to become a make-up artist, and she always showcases her talent with flawlessly drawn eyeliner and lip liner that is consistently on fleek.
No cap
Meaning: to tell the truth or be honest about something. It is commonly used to emphasise the truthfulness of someone’s statement, especially when it might be unexpected or difficult to believe.
Example: No cap; I already mapped out a study plan and have been following it for a week! I have a good feeling about achieving my goals this semester.