These 7 American Slang Words Confuse the Non-Natives

The American slang can be quite difficult and confusing. In case you aren't familiar with the cultural context of the tricky terms used in these slangs, you won't be able to decipher the meaning. For the non-natives, a few American slangs could be especially difficult. Today, we bring to you a list of seven such American phrases and words, along with their appropriate explanations, to clear all your confusions.

Ghosted:

The term "ghosted" means to cut off all the communication quite suddenly with someone without any explanation.

The confusion:

The term seems to be related to some supernatural phenomena, something related to ghosts. However, in this context, it is related to disappearing from the life of people as suddenly and quietly as a "ghost". The use of the term "ghost" in a metaphorical sense creates the confusion. The idea of vanishing from the life of someone suddenly without any final word might not be obvious immediately in case one isn't familiar with the term.

The term "ghosted" came from social media contexts. In the world of social media and online dating, it is quite common for people to cut off communication without any prior notice. It is similar to someone disappearing from the life of people without any warning or sign.

Lit

The term "lit" means something extremely fun, impressive, or exciting.

The confusion:

Traditionally, the term "lit" means something that is on fire. The use of the word is made to talk about something that is excellent or exciting. The word can be confusing for the people who are only familiar with the literal sense of the word. The shift in the meaning of the term "lit" might not be easily understood by many.

The use of the term "lit" in order to describe something that is thrilling and outstanding likely comes from the term's association with being "high" or "intoxicated", which then extends to feelings of general enthusiasm and excitement. This is a clear example of how language evolves with time and gives birth to new meanings.

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Bail

The term "bail" means to cancel plans or abruptly leave something at the last minute.

The confusion:

The term comes across as confusing because it traditionally means a sum of money that is used to secure a person from imprisonment. Using the term bail to talk about abandoning a social situation might appear to be out of place.

FOMO

The term FOMO is actually short for, Fear of Missing Out. This implies to the worry or anxiety that others are experiencing something that you are not.

The confusion:

The acronym itself is a problem. The acronym may not appear obvious to people.

Savage

Someone who is ruthless, unapologetically fierce, usually in an admirable or impressive manner.

The term "savage" historically holds a negative connotation.

The confusion:

Historically, the term savage holds a negative connotation. The term historically means something untamed or wild, and thus, the slang meaning of the term might not be obvious and clear in the first go.

Flex

This term means to brag about something or to show off, usually in a way to impress others.

The confusion

The term literally means to make something contract or to bend something.

Slay

This means to perform exceptionally, or to appear great.

The confusion

Traditionally, the term means to destroy or kill something. The modern slang usage to describe something or someone excellently can be confusing.

It is true that understanding these slang terms can be difficult. However, developing an understanding of these terms could enhgance the grasp of American communication and culture, while also making it super fun. The slang terms evolve rapidly, and thus, staying open to these new meanings can help one navigate the linguistic turns and twists with ease.

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