“Sigma,” “ate,” “rizz,” and “skibidi” are a few of the words– or new Gen Alpha lingo – I heard as I greeted the girls on the first day of practice for Girls on the Run, the youth running program where I serve as a volunteer coach. Did I have any idea what they were saying? No. It was as if they had invented a whole new language since I had seen them in the spring when their favorite word was “slay.” Language is a living, breathing entity that evolves with society. As new generations emerge, so do new words and phrases that reflect their experiences, values, and cultural shifts. These generational words, while sometimes confusing right off the bat, provide insight into the changing social landscape.
There is nothing more humbling than asking a group of eight- to eleven-year-old girls to explain what these words mean (feel free to check out this great explainer), especially as someone who communicates for a living. But the joy on their faces and immediate connection we built by simply asking the question, reminded me of the greater impact of language and the words and lingo we use.
Reflecting Identity and Values
Word choice reflects our identity and values. The language we use can hint at our cultural background, education level, and even our personality, and can enhance authenticity in communication. When we choose words that resonate with our true selves, we build credibility and trust. On the other hand, using language that feels inauthentic can lead to disconnect and skepticism from others. However, there can be a time and place for using words that may not align with your identity, as did the folks behind the Hever Castle TikTok account. The juxtaposition between the old English castle and the new language they used made for a trend that went viral, enabling the tourist site to connect with a younger generation and put its brand on the global map.
@hevercastle Pop off, Queen! ✨ #hevercastle #genz #fyp ♬ original sound – hevercastle
Emotional Impact
Words carry emotional weight. The right choice and the wrong choice can evoke all kinds of feelings. Consider how different words and generational lingo can alter the tone of a message and impact the way people feel about you or your brand. It is important to choose your words carefully to ensure you get the right emotion across with your message. Language is constantly changing – take for example the shift in the real estate industry away from saying “master” bedroom. The last thing you want is to pick a word that is no longer appropriate or socially acceptable, and negatively influence your brand or client in a way that could lead to being cancelled.
Building Relationships
Effective communication is essential for building relationships, whether personal or professional. I was able to instantly connect with the girls on my team by asking them to let me into their world and teach me their new words. When you meet someone for the first time, use language that is welcoming and aligns with what they would say. When we meet with a potential new client, we always do our research and talk to them to make sure we are using the language they use to describe their work whether they are “clients,” “members,” or “patients.” This simple word choice could be the difference between making or breaking a relationship. If you do make a mistake, as we all do, the most important thing to do is right the wrong, correct yourself, and own it. This is the best way to keep the relationship intact and show you value the partnership.
The importance of word choice cannot be overstated – the words and lingo we use shape our interactions. As communicators, being mindful of our language can enhance our communication and ultimately enrich our relationships, both personally and professionally. Words are at our disposal, so use them wisely and thoughtfully.
