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21 Gen Z Slang & Terms That Marketers Must Know

Are you tired of trying to reach those elusive Gen Z consumers with outdated marketing strategies? Well, fear not, because Gen Z Marketing is here to save the day!

Gen Z Marketing is all about understanding the unique characteristics of this generation, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s. They’re tech-savvy, socially conscious, and have a shorter attention span than a goldfish (no, it’s been scientifically proven).

So how do you grab their attention and keep it? By being authentic, creative, and relevant. Show them you care about the issues they care about, and don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. As an influencer and Gen Z expert, Chelsea Krost says, “Don’t try to be cool; just be authentic.”

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But I’m not a teenager anymore. How am I supposed to know what these young people are saying?” Don’t worry, We’ve got your back with some examples of Gen Z slang and terms that will have you marketing in their language in no time.

How to Market Gen Z

To give you an idea of the kind of slang and terms that resonate with Gen Z, let me drop some knowledge on you. For example, instead of saying “cool”, they might say “chill” or “dope”. And instead of “YOLO”, they might say “carpe diem” (just kidding, nobody says that).

Marketing to Gen Z can be tricky, and catching their attention can be compared to trying to catch a ghost in a net. In this blog, we’ve included a bunch of slang and terms that can help you connect with Gen Z and hold their attention. While it may seem like their attention slips away and disappears, you can build a relationship with Gen Z that will keep them engaged and loyal to your brand with the right approach and understanding of their values. So, read on!

Gen Z Slang & Terms For Marketers

1. Slayyyy

To slay means to do something exceptionally well. Slayyyy is an exaggerated version of slay, often used to express excitement or admiration.

Marketers can use this term in social media campaigns to highlight their products or services’ superior quality or success, like “Our new product slayyyyys the competition!”.

2. High Key/Low Key

High key means something that is very obvious or openly expressed, while low key means something that is more discreet or kept to oneself.

Marketers can use these terms to show the contrast between their products or services, like “High key – our new feature is a game-changer. Low key – our customer service is unbeatable!”

3. Sus

Sus is short for “suspicious” or “suspect.” It is often used to question the authenticity or intentions of something or someone.

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Businesses can use this term in their campaigns to build trust with their audience, like “No sus here – our product is 100% authentic and reliable!”

4. Cheugy

Cheugy refers to something that is outdated or uncool.

In marketing, this term can position products or services as trendy or modern, like “Don’t be cheugy – upgrade your wardrobe with our new collection!”

5. Periodt!

Periodt is an expression of finality or emphasis, often used to emphasize a statement.

Marketers can use this term to make a bold statement about their brand or product, like “Our brand is the best, periodt!”

6. G.O.A.T

G.O.A.T stands for “Greatest Of All Time.” Marketers often use this term to position their products or services as the best in their category, like “Our product is the G.O.A.T of skincare!”

7. Purr

Purr is a term used to express approval or admiration.

In business and marketing, this term can be used to show products or services’ positive impact on their customers, like “Our new product will make you purr with satisfaction!”

8. Let’s Get This Bread

Let’s get this bread is a motivational phrase encouraging someone to work hard or pursue success.

While marketing, this term motivates the audience to achieve their goals, like “Join our team and let’s get this bread together!”

9. Preach!

Preach is an expression of agreement or support for a statement or idea.

Marketers can use this term to show that their brand values align with their customers, like “Preach! We believe in sustainability and ethical production practices!”

10. Cap

Cap means to lie or exaggerate.

Marketers can use this term to show that their products or services are authentic and honest, like “No cap – our products are made with the highest quality ingredients!”

11. I’m Shook

I’m shook means to be surprised or shocked.

This Gen Z term can create excitement or anticipation around their products or services, like “Get ready to be shook – our new product is coming soon!”

12. Main Character

The main character refers to someone who is the center of attention or the protagonist of their story.

This slang is used by businesses to show that products or services can help their customers feel confident and empowered, like “Make yourself the main character with our new collection.”

13. IYKYK

IYKYK stands for “If You Know You Know.”

Marketers employ this term in their messages to create a sense of exclusivity or community among their audience, like “IYKYK – our loyal customers know that our products are the best!”

14. Rizz

Rizz is a slang term often used as a shortened version of the word “charisma.” To have “Rizz” means possessing a certain charm and confidence that makes you attractive and alluring. It is commonly used among Gen Z as a slang term to show appreciation or admiration towards someone or something.

Gen Z tends to value authenticity and transparency, so marketers could focus on promoting products or brands with genuine and attractive personalities or stories. For example, a fashion brand could use the tagline “Unleash your inner rizz with our unique and bold designs” to convey that their products can help Gen Z express their authentic selves in a charismatic way.

15. Lit

When something is “lit,” it means it’s exciting, amazing, or cool.

Marketers can use this term to describe their products, services, or events to make them sound more appealing to younger audiences. For example, a clothing brand might use “Get lit with our latest collection” in marketing campaigns.

16. Snatched

If someone says that they look “snatched,” it means that they look really good, especially after putting in the effort to look their best.

It can be used to promote beauty or wellness products. For instance, a skincare brand might use the phrase “Get snatched skin with our new serum” to attract younger customers.

17. Flex

 

When someone “flexes,” they show off wealth, status, or achievements.

This slang can be used in marketing to promote a luxury or high-end product. For example, a car brand might use “Flex on the road with our latest model” in advertising campaigns.

18. FOMO

FOMO stands for “fear of missing out,” which refers to anxiety or regret from being unable to participate in a popular or exciting event.

Marketers often use this term to create a sense of urgency and exclusivity around their products or services. For instance, an event company might use “Don’t miss out on the party of the year” in their social media posts to attract more attendees.

19. Gucci

“Gucci” is a slang term that means something is stylish or fashionable.

This term can best describe a trendy product or service. A fashion brand might use the phrase “Stay Gucci with our latest collection” to appeal to younger audiences.

20. Bop

A “bop” is a catchy or upbeat song that people love to dance to.

Marketers may use this term to promote their music-related products or events. For example, a music streaming service might use the phrase “Listen to the hottest bops of the summer” in their email newsletters to encourage more sign-ups.

21. Glow Up

When someone has a “glow up,” they have improved their appearance, personality, or lifestyle.

Marketers can use this term to promote their beauty or self-improvement products. Like, a fitness brand might use the phrase “Get your glow up with our workout program” to attract customers who want to improve their health and appearance.

There you have it guys, now go on and use these slangs in marketing your products to Gen Z. And if we missed any of your favorite slang, let us know by tweeting us @elink_io.

Conclusion

And that wraps up our discussion about Gen Z slang and terms! We hope you’ve learned a lot about the unique language and expressions that this generation uses. Incorporating these terms into your marketing strategy can help you connect with and engage your Gen Z audience. So don’t be afraid to get creative and add spice to your brand messaging. With these slangs, your marketing game will be lit, on fleek, and totally Gucci. Let’s get this bread, fam.

Further Reads:

AI in Email Marketing: How To Use it, The Benefits & Challenges!

Get the Edge: Email Marketing Trends You Need to Know in 2023!

Digital Advertising: Definition, Importance, Types & More!

What is Content Marketing: The Complete Guide

Video Email Marketing: Engage Your Audience and Drive Conversions

Best Types of Music For Productivity and Limtless Concentration!

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