Decoding teen speak: Bridging the gap to financial wisdom
You want to guide your children towards financial independence, but sometimes it feels like you're on different planets and they’re speaking a different language. Their world is shaped by social media trends, influencer culture, and a constant stream of new lingo.
But understanding their slang is about more than just being seen as cool – it can be a powerful way to connect, build trust and subtly introduce essential money lessons and dive into basic financial concepts that can open doors to more meaningful conversations.
The glossary: A parent’s guide
Here are some common terms you might hear, what they mean, and how you can use them to spark a money conversation:
- Bet
What it means: An enthusiastic agreement, similar to okay, yes, or ‘I'm in’. It can also mean ‘you bet’.
- Boujie / Boujee
What it means: Refers to something luxurious, high-class, or expensive, often with a slightly negative connotation implying pretentiousness or trying too hard to appear wealthy. - Cap / No cap
What it means: Cap means to lie or exaggerate. No cap means ‘no lie’, ‘for real’ or ‘seriously’.
- Drip
What it means: Refers to someone's style or outfit, implying it's fashionable or on trend.
- Finna
What it means: Short for ‘going to’ or ‘going to be’.
- Flex
What it means: To show off, often in a boastful way, usually about possessions or achievements.
- FOMO (Fear of missing out)
What it means: The anxiety that an exciting or interesting event may currently be happening elsewhere, often fuelled by social media.
- Ghosting
What it means: Suddenly ending communication with someone without explanation.
- Sus
What it means: Short for suspicious or suspect. Something that seems questionable, untrustworthy, or a bit off.
- Vibe check
What it means: An assessment of the general mood or atmosphere of a person or situation.
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How to use this glossary to talk money with your kids
By stepping into their world, even just a little, you're not just decoding words – you're building a stronger relationship and laying the groundwork for a lifetime of smart financial decisions. |
Disclaimer: This article is solely intended for information. It does not constitute financial, tax or investment advice or recommendation. Please speak to a financial advisor or registered financial professional before making any financial decision(s).
Standard Bank, its subsidiaries or holding company, or any subsidiary of the holding company and all of its subsidiaries make no warranties or representations (implied or otherwise) as to the accuracy, completeness or fitness for purpose of the information provided in this article or that it is free from errors or omissions.
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