These days, slang words come and go as fast as a TikTok trend, leaving many Americans longing for the old slang terms from their childhood. This is a common feeling shared by nearly three-quarters of Americans. The team at Preply delved into the world of slang to pinpoint specific words and phrases that Americans want to use regularly again.
Overall, the most popular slang terms that Americans want to revive are “baloney,” “take a chill pill,” and “bogus.” Each of these terms gained popularity in a different decade, but the 90s remain the most popular decade for slang. Despite slang coming with an expiration date, 80% of Americans say they use old slang regularly. Three-quarters of Americans say slang from their youth makes them nostalgic. Slang from the past has an element of mystery, too. Two-thirds of Americans have Googled the meaning of an old slang word.
As for individual words that Americans yearn to revive, these ten are the most popular choices:
1. Baloney
2. Take a chill pill
3. Bogus
4. Cruisin’ for a bruisin’
5. Groovy
6. Spiffy
7. Heebie-jeebies
8. Gnarly
9. Knuckle sandwich
10. Rad
The top three words were chosen by over 50% of respondents. They each express a certain feeling in a short, punchy way that has no modern slang alternative. “Take a chill pill” brings a little levity and feels gentler than commanding someone to “just relax!”
Most generations prefer slang from the 80s and 90s, except for baby boomers, who are nostalgic for the slang of the 60s. Overall, slang gives us a fascinating and unique insight into the state of language, as shown clearly in this graphic.
