29 Overused Millennial Phrases That Seriously Need to Fade Away

Millennials have a knack for crafting catchy phrases, but some of these have been around the block a few too many times. Here’s a playful glance at some millennial expressions that might be ready for a little vacation, or at least a brief pause.

Adulting

“Adulting” refers to performing the mundane tasks expected of a responsible adult, like paying bills or doing laundry. It’s often used when someone wants a pat on the back for doing what adults have been doing since the dawn of time.

I can’t even

This phrase is the ultimate expression of being overwhelmed or flabbergasted to the point of speechlessness. Often, it’s used for dramatic effect, even in situations where one could, indeed, even.

Sorry not sorry

“Sorry not sorry” is used to feign apology while actually relishing in one’s unapologetic behavior. It’s the verbal equivalent of a sly wink and a nudge that isn’t as clever as it sounds.

Can’t stop, won’t stop

Used to express relentless or unstoppable behavior, “Can’t stop, won’t stop” is the catchphrase of the determined, often chanted by those who probably should stop—at least for a coffee break.

That’s lit

When something is exceptionally good, exciting, or on fire (figuratively), it’s “lit.” This word is the lightbulb of the millennial vocabulary, signaling that something is bright and hot, but maybe overused to the point of burning out.

It’s giving

“It’s giving” is used to describe what something appears to be presenting or offering, often in terms of vibes or aesthetic. It’s giving… overused phrase vibes.

I did a thing

Whenever a millennial makes a vague yet significant accomplishment, they might say “I did a thing.” It’s a humblebrag that’s not so humble, suggesting a casual toss of something potentially monumental.

This is everything

When something meets all emotional or aesthetic expectations, it’s described as “this is everything.” Ironically, by trying to encompass everything, it often ends up meaning very little.

Yas

“Yas” is an enthusiastic approval, an upgrade from a simple “yes.” It’s like giving a standing ovation when maybe a polite clap would do.

Slay

To “slay” is to do something exceptionally well. Originally from the fierce world of drag culture, it’s now applied to everything from acing a test to making a particularly tasty sandwich.

Feels

“Feels” is shorthand for a wave of emotions, often used when something tugs at the heartstrings a bit too hard. It’s emotional shorthand that might be getting a bit too short.

On fleek

Perfectly groomed eyebrows were the original standard for being “on fleek.” Now, it’s applied to anything done flawlessly, from pizza toppings to PowerPoint presentations.

Bae

Before anyone else, or “bae,” is a term of endearment for a significant other. It’s sweet, but perhaps overripe at this point.

Nope

A simple, emphatic way to say no, “nope” is the door slam of the millennial lexicon. It’s straightforward and effective, but maybe a little overplayed.

Throw shade

To “throw shade” is to subtly (or not so subtly) insult someone. It’s the art of covert criticism, but maybe we could stand to throw a little less of it around.

Woke

Being “woke” means being aware, especially about social justice issues. While its intentions are good, the term has been stretched and politicized in ways that can dilute its original meaning.

Squad goals

“Squad goals” refer to aspirations for one’s group of friends. It’s about setting the bar for friendship high, though sometimes it feels more like a social media performance.

Totes

“Totes” is a truncated way of saying “totally.” It’s totes overused.

Amazeballs

Something that is “amazeballs” is amazing. It tries to be cute and edgy but often lands just shy of both.

Ghosting

“Ghosting” is abruptly ending all communication without explanation. As much as we might want this behavior to disappear, the term itself is pretty spot on.

Basic

Calling something “basic” is a way of dismissing it as unoriginal or mainstream. It’s a bit harsh, like telling a pumpkin spice latte it’s not special.

Extra

Being “extra” means being excessively dramatic or over the top. It’s the linguistic equivalent of wearing a ball gown to a brunch.

FOMO

The “fear of missing out” is that anxious feeling you get when you think others are having more fun than you. It’s a modern anxiety wrapped in a catchy acronym.

Gucci

Used to describe something that’s all good or cool, “Gucci” is borrowed from the fashion brand. It’s chic, but perhaps trying a bit too hard to stay trendy.

Humble brag

A “humble brag” is bragging disguised as modesty. It’s not fooling anyone, and it’s as subtle as a neon sign.

It me

“It me” is used to express identification with something, usually a feeling or a meme. It’s a quirky, grammatical mess.

Living my best life

When someone is “living their best life,” they’re supposedly at the peak of their happiness. It’s often accompanied by enviable Instagram photos, whether the sentiment is true or not.

Snack

Calling someone a “snack” means they’re looking particularly attractive. It’s playful but can crumble into cringe territory pretty quickly.

Spilling the tea

“Spilling the tea” is all about gossiping. It’s deliciously secretive, yet it’s not always served with the best intentions.

While these phrases have added flavor to our conversations, perhaps it’s time to freshen up our linguistic palates with something new. After all, language evolves, and so should we!

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