Language is ever-evolving, and Gen Z has introduced a wave of trendy terms that have quickly made their way into corporate settings. What started as casual slang on social media has now become part of office conversations. Here’s a look at 10 Gen Z words that are reshaping corporate lingo and how they’re being used in the workplace.
1. Lowkey
Meaning: Something that’s understated but significant.
In the Workplace: “I lowkey think we should pivot our strategy for better results.”
This term is often used to express an idea subtly without committing fully to it.
2. Vibe
Meaning: The atmosphere or feeling of a situation.
In the Workplace: “Let’s create a positive vibe for our team meeting tomorrow.”
Teams now use “vibe” to describe everything from office culture to project dynamics.
3. Slay
Meaning: To excel or perform exceptionally well.
In the Workplace: “You slayed that presentation!”
It’s a term of encouragement and recognition for outstanding performance.
4. Flex
Meaning: To show off or highlight something impressive.
In the Workplace: “Our Q4 results are a flex for the entire team.”
It’s often used to celebrate achievements or accomplishments.
5. Sus
Meaning: Short for “suspicious.”
In the Workplace: “That sudden change in the client’s tone feels a bit sus.”
It’s used to flag potential red flags or suspicious behavior.
6. Ghost
Meaning: To disappear or cut off communication without warning.
In the Workplace: “The vendor ghosted us after the initial proposal.”
This term is commonly used to describe situations where someone becomes unresponsive.
7. Tea
Meaning: Gossip or inside scoop.
In the Workplace: “What’s the tea on the upcoming project announcement?”
While it’s often playful, it’s used to seek details about office updates or rumors.
8. Extra
Meaning: Over-the-top or excessive behavior.
In the Workplace: “That email chain was a bit extra, don’t you think?”
This term is used to describe unnecessary efforts or exaggerated reactions.
9. No Cap
Meaning: Honest or truthful, often used to emphasize sincerity.
In the Workplace: “This new tool has boosted our efficiency, no cap.”
It’s a way of reinforcing honesty or emphasizing facts.
10. FOMO
Meaning: Fear of Missing Out.
In the Workplace: “We need to jump on this trend now or risk FOMO in the market.”
It’s frequently used to describe the urgency to stay relevant or up-to-date.
Why Are Gen Z Terms Becoming Common in Corporate Lingo?
- Changing Workforce Demographics: With Gen Z entering the workplace, their linguistic preferences are naturally influencing corporate culture.
- Social Media Influence: Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter have popularized these terms, making them mainstream.
- Cultural Shift: The corporate world is becoming less formal, embracing a more relaxed and relatable communication style.
FAQs on Gen Z Terms in the Workplace
1. Is it professional to use Gen Z terms at work?
It depends on the context. In casual or team settings, these terms can help build rapport. However, in formal communication, traditional language is often preferred.
2. How can I keep up with Gen Z slang?
Engage with younger colleagues, follow trends on social media, or subscribe to pop culture blogs for regular updates.
3. Are these terms here to stay in corporate lingo?
Some terms may fade over time, but many have become ingrained in workplace culture and are likely to stick around.
Language reflects culture, and the rise of Gen Z slang in corporate lingo is a testament to the changing dynamics of workplaces. Embracing these terms can make communication more relatable, fostering a sense of connection across generations. So, are you ready to slay your next office conversation? No cap!
