Millennials, often celebrated for their linguistic creativity and innovation, have undeniably left a profound mark on contemporary language. However, not all linguistic contributions are created equal, and some have overstayed their welcome to the point of irritation. As language evolves, certain phrases inevitably fall out of favor, their once-novel appeal replaced by annoyance and fatigue. While these millennial phrases may have had their moment in the sun, their overuse has rendered them more cringe-worthy than cool, serving as reminders of linguistic trends that have worn out their welcome. Some may argue that not all of these are ‘millennial phrases,’ but that may depend on when the end of the millennial spectrum you fall into. Are you an elder millennial, or were you born a little later? Something to keep in mind. According to PEW Research, a millennial can be anyone born between 1981 and 1996.
Without further ado, here are 17 once-trendy millennial phrases that have become more cringe-worthy than cool.
“YOLO”
Originating as a mantra for living life to the fullest, “You Only Live Once” has devolved into a justification for reckless behavior. What once inspired adventurous spontaneity now often accompanies dubious decision-making.
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“FOMO“
The fear of missing out was a legitimate social phenomenon exacerbated by the rise of social media. However, its incessant use has transformed it into a trite expression of insecurity, losing its original impact.
“Bae”
Originally an affectionate term for a romantic partner, “bae” has been diluted through overuse to the point where it now lacks genuine sentiment, becoming a cliché substitute for “baby” or “boo.”
“On fleek”
Coined to describe impeccably groomed eyebrows, “on fleek” quickly became a catchphrase for anything deemed stylish or well-executed. Yet, its ubiquity has rendered it devoid of any meaningful impact, making it a relic of its time.
“Lit”
Once reserved for describing a truly extraordinary experience, “lit” has become a ubiquitous filler word applied to virtually anything enjoyable or exciting. Its overuse as a millennial phrase has drained it of any genuine enthusiasm.
“Adulting”
A term initially embraced as a humorous acknowledgment of the struggles of transitioning into adulthood has become a tired cliché. The mundane tasks of daily life hardly warrant their own label, and “adulting” now feels like an unnecessary dramatization of ordinary responsibilities.
“Goals AF”
Setting ambitious aspirations is admirable, but appending “AF” (as f***), once meant to intensify the sentiment, has become a tired trope. Rather than inspiring motivation, it often breeds unrealistic expectations and comparisons.
“I can’t even”
Originally employed to convey speechlessness or disbelief, “I can’t even” has devolved into an overused expression of exasperation. Its frequent misuse has stripped it of its original impact, rendering it little more than an eye-roll-inducing cliché.
“Slay”
Initially used to commend someone’s exceptional performance or appearance, “slay” has become a hollow compliment diluted by overuse. Its original empowerment has been overshadowed by its triteness.
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“Basic”
The term “basic,” once employed to describe something conforming to mainstream trends without individuality, has ironically become basic. Its widespread adoption has rendered it devoid of any meaningful critique, making it an empty insult.
“Squad goals”
Originally a lighthearted expression of admiration for a close-knit group of friends, “squad goals” has evolved into a cliché, often used superficially to reference an aspirational social circle without genuine sentiment.
“Sorry not sorry”
Initially employed as a tongue-in-cheek dismissal of remorse, the millennial phrase “sorry not sorry” has become a lazy way to justify insensitivity or rudeness. Its overuse has transformed it into a hollow excuse rather than a clever retort.
“Extra”
Originally used to describe someone or something as over the top or dramatic, “extra” has become an overused catch-all term for anything perceived as excessive or unnecessary. Its once-sharp critique has dulled with frequent use.
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“Savage”
Once reserved for describing someone’s audacious or unapologetic behavior, “savage” has become an overused adjective lacking nuance or context. Its pervasive use has stripped it of its original impact, rendering it cliché.
“Low key”
Initially used to convey something discreet or understated, “low key” has been overused to the point of losing its subtlety. Its frequent inclusion in casual conversation has rendered it ineffective at conveying genuine secrecy or modesty.
“Totes”
Originally an abbreviation of “totally,” “totes” has become an unnecessary linguistic shortcut, adding little substance to the conversation. Its pervasive use has rendered it more irritating than convenient.
“Throwing shade“
Once a clever way to describe subtle insults or criticism, “throwing shade” has been overused to the point of becoming a tired cliché. Its frequent invocation has diminished its impact, making it a trite expression of negativity.
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