The way Gen Z communicates is evolving rapidly, shaped by social media, memes, and pop culture. In the Philippines, local slang blends with global trends, creating a unique linguistic landscape. Whether you’re a marketer, educator, parent, or just someone looking to keep up, understanding Gen Z slang is essential.

This guide explores the most common and relevant slang terms used by Filipino Gen Z, their meanings, and how they fit into daily conversations.

What Is Gen Z Slang?

Gen Z slang consists of informal words and phrases popularized by digital natives. Unlike traditional slang, it spreads quickly through platforms like TikTok, Twitter (X), and Instagram. It often borrows from English, Filipino, and even regional dialects, reflecting the diverse linguistic influences in the Philippines.

Why Understanding Gen Z Slang Matters

  • Improves Communication – If you’re engaging with Gen Z customers, students, or colleagues, knowing their slang helps build better connections.
  • Boosts Online Presence – Businesses and influencers who incorporate Gen Z lingo effectively can create relatable and engaging content.
  • Cultural Awareness – Language reflects culture. Understanding slang provides insights into trends, values, and humor unique to Gen Z Filipinos.

Common Gen Z Slang Terms in the Philippines

Below is a breakdown of popular Gen Z slang in the Philippines, their meanings, and examples of how they are used in conversations.

General Vibes & Feelings

  1. Slay – To do something exceptionally well or succeed.
    • “She slayed that performance!”
  2. Lit – Awesome, exciting, or cool.
    • “This party is lit!”
  3. Bet – Agreement, affirmation, or acknowledgment.
    • “Want to grab pizza? Bet.”
  4. Mood – A relatable feeling or situation.
    • “Feeling exhausted after work? Mood.”
  5. Salty – Bitter, annoyed, or upset.
    • “He’s still salty about losing the game.”
  6. Shook – Surprised or shocked.
    • “I was shook when I saw my final score.”
  7. Vibe – The overall feeling or atmosphere.
    • “This place has good vibes.”
  8. GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) – Someone considered the best.
    • “Michael Jordan is the GOAT!”
  9. Extra – Over-the-top or dramatic.
    • “Her birthday party was so extra!”
  10. Low-key/High-key – Low-key means subtly or secretly, while high-key means openly or strongly.
  • “I low-key love this song.” “I high-key need a vacation.”
  1. Sus – Suspicious or shady.
  • “That guy is acting kinda sus.”

About People

  1. Snatched – Looking flawless or amazing.
  • “Her outfit is snatched!”
  1. Simp – Someone who does too much for someone they like.
  • “He’s such a simp for her.”
  1. Stan – A dedicated or obsessive fan.
  • “I stan this artist so much!”
  1. Snack – Someone who is attractive.
  • “He’s a total snack!”

Actions & Communication

  1. Flex – To boast or show off.
  • “Let me flex my new kicks real quick.”
  1. Tea – Gossip or juicy information.
  • “Spill the tea on what happened last night!”
  1. Cap – A lie or exaggeration.
  • “Stop capping, you didn’t actually meet Beyoncé.”
  1. No cap – For real, no lie.
  • “That new song is amazing, no cap!”
  1. Ghosting – Suddenly cutting off communication without explanation.
  • “He ghosted me after our date.”

Music & Trends

  1. Bop – A catchy song.
  • “This new song is a bop!”
  1. Drip – Style or fashionable.
  • “His outfit has serious drip.”
  1. Hits Different – Something that feels uniquely impactful.
  • “This coffee hits different on a rainy day.”

Internet & Meme Slang

  1. Yeet – To throw something forcefully or an exclamation of excitement.
  • “Yeet! We won!”
  1. Big Yikes – Something very embarrassing.
  • “That outfit? Big yikes!”
  1. IYKYK (If You Know, You Know) – Used for inside jokes.
  • “Spicy ramen at 3 AM, IYKYK.”
  1. W (Win) – Something positive or successful.
  • “Getting that job was a big W for me.”
  1. Mid – Mediocre or unimpressive.
  • “That movie was so mid.”
  1. Let Him Cook – Encouragement for someone to continue doing something impressive.
  • “Let him cook! He’s on fire in this game!”

How to Use Gen Z Slang Effectively

  • Know Your Audience – Use slang appropriately, especially in marketing or professional settings.
  • Stay Updated – Language evolves, and new terms emerge regularly.
  • Use in Context – Misusing slang can come off as inauthentic. Observe how Gen Z naturally uses these terms.
  • Blend It Naturally – Overusing slang can make communication confusing. Use it where it feels natural.

The Future of Gen Z Slang

Slang constantly evolves, influenced by trends, memes, and cultural shifts. With the Philippines’ growing online presence, expect new expressions to emerge, mixing global and local influences. Staying updated ensures you remain relevant in conversations with younger generations.

Conclusion

Gen Z slang is more than just trendy words—it reflects cultural shifts, digital influence, and social trends. Understanding and using these terms effectively can improve communication, especially in digital spaces. Whether you’re engaging with younger audiences, creating content, or simply curious about modern language, this guide equips you with the basics of Filipino Gen Z slang.

Disclaimer: Slang evolves, and meanings may shift over time. This guide provides a general reference based on current usage in the Philippines. Always consider context when using slang to avoid miscommunication.