Generation Alpha, born between 2010 and 2025, is the first generation to grow up entirely in the digital age. With their deep connection to technology, their vocabulary is evolving rapidly, incorporating new slang, internet trends, and global influences. Understanding Gen Alpha words is essential for parents, educators, and marketers looking to connect with this tech-savvy demographic.

This article explores the most common Gen Alpha words, their meanings, and their relevance in the Philippines. Whether you’re a teacher trying to engage students or a brand aiming to appeal to young consumers, staying updated on their language can enhance communication.

What Influences Gen Alpha’s Language?

Several factors shape the way Gen Alpha speaks:

  • Digital Platforms: Social media, gaming, and video streaming platforms introduce new words daily.
  • Pop Culture: TV shows, influencers, and global trends influence their vocabulary.
  • Shortened Communication: The rise of texting and social media encourages shorter, snappier phrases.
  • Filipino and English Blending: Many Gen Alpha words in the Philippines mix English with Tagalog, creating a unique linguistic blend.
  • Internet & Gaming Culture: Terms originating from memes, online games, and viral trends.

Popular Gen Alpha Words and Their Meanings

Here are some of the most frequently used words among Gen Alpha in the Philippines:

General Slang

  • Rizz: Short for “charisma,” used to describe someone’s ability to attract others.
  • Gyat/Gyatt: An exclamation of surprise or admiration, similar to “goddamn.”
  • Mewing: A practice of placing the tongue on the roof of the mouth, believed to improve jawline definition.
  • Fanum Tax: Taking food from someone else’s plate (often jokingly).
  • Skibidi: A slang term referring to something wild, chaotic, or absurd, often in a humorous or entertaining way.
  • Ohio: Used in meme culture to describe something weird, bizarre, or unexpected.
  • Sus: Short for “suspicious.”
  • No Cap: Meaning “no lie” or “for real.”
  • Bet: Meaning “okay” or “sure.”
  • Sigma: Describes someone self-sufficient, independent, and often working outside traditional social hierarchies.
  • Drip: Meaning stylish or fashionable.
  • Shook: Meaning surprised or shocked.
  • Fire: Meaning excellent or awesome.
  • Cheugy: Describing something outdated or uncool.
  • Salty: Describes being in a bad mood, irritated, bitter, or resentful.
  • Flex: To show off, often in a boastful way.
  • GOAT: Acronym for “Greatest Of All Time,” describing something as the best of its kind.
  • Lit: When something is “lit,” it’s really good, amazing, or impressive.
  • Low Key: Means something or someone is secret, subtle, or low-profile.
  • Mid: Something that is average, mediocre, or just okay.
  • Mother: Term of high praise for a woman who is highly respected or influential.
  • Bruh: Casual term for “bro,” “brother,” or “dude.” Any gender can use it.
  • Delulu: Short for “delusional.”
  • Ick: Expression of disgust or repulsion.
  • Yeet: To be very excited and have a lot of energy, or to throw something with force.
  • Zang: Remix of the word “dang.”

Phrases & Expressions

  • Ate: “You ate that” means you look good, are impressive, or outstanding.
  • Brat Summer: Describes embracing a carefree, rebellious attitude during the summer.
  • Fanum Tax: Stealing food from a friend.
  • Humble Brag: Subtly boasting while pretending to be modest.
  • Just Put the Fries in the Bag, Bro: Means someone is taking too long to say something or needs to “spit it out.”
  • Skibidi Ohio Rizz: To call someone this means that they’re weird.
  • What the Sigma?: Similar to “Skibidi,” this phrase doesn’t have a fixed meaning and can be used in place of “good,” “cool,” or “What the heck?”

Gaming & Internet Culture Slang

  • NPC: Short for non-player character, used to describe someone who is boring or predictable.
  • Ratioed: When a reply to a post gets more likes than the original post, indicating disapproval.
  • Goblin Mode: Embracing laziness and chaos.
  • Yassify: To make something more glamorous or over-the-top.
  • Dank: Meaning high-quality or impressive (often used in meme culture).
  • Dog Water: Describes something or someone as trash, especially in gaming.
  • Looksmaxxing: Improving one’s physical appearance to maximize attractiveness, often through grooming or fashion.
  • Brain Rot: General term for spending too much time online watching low-quality content.
  • Simp: Someone who is overly submissive or does too much for someone they like, often needing attention.
  • iPad Kid: A term for a young child who spends excessive time on a tablet, often implying behavioral issues.
  • Aura/Negative Aura: “Aura” refers to someone’s charm, while “negative aura” means “not cool.” “Aura points” can be gained or lost online.

How Gen Alpha’s Language Affects Communication in the Philippines

1. Marketing and Business

Businesses aiming to appeal to Gen Alpha need to adapt to their language and cultural nuances. Social media ads, influencer collaborations, and brand messaging should incorporate relevant slang to stay relatable.

2. Education and Parenting

Educators and parents must understand these words to engage with children effectively. Being familiar with Gen Alpha’s language can help bridge communication gaps and foster better relationships.

3. Social Media and Content Creation

Gen Alpha primarily communicates through platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. Content creators targeting this demographic should integrate trending words and phrases into their videos and posts.

The Future of Gen Alpha’s Language

Gen Alpha’s vocabulary will continue evolving, influenced by technological advancements and cultural shifts. As AI, virtual reality, and new social media platforms emerge, new words will enter everyday conversations. Staying updated on these linguistic changes will be crucial for anyone engaging with this generation.

Conclusion

Understanding Gen Alpha words is essential for effective communication in the Philippines, whether in marketing, education, or everyday interactions. By keeping up with their evolving vocabulary, you can connect with them more meaningfully and stay relevant in an ever-changing digital landscape.

Disclaimer: The meanings of these words may change over time, and their usage can vary depending on context. This article provides a general guide but does not represent all possible interpretations of Gen Alpha slang.