Youth language

The increasing influence of social media on youth has led to the emergence of youth words. The inclusion of youth words in the English language has paved the way for youth language. Youth languages have always existed, although they have evolved. In the past, literary works, radio, and television shaped youth language, while social media has evolved it today.
Certain words, spelling, grammar, and context are key factors in the creation of youth language. It is acceptable to intentionally misspell words and include grammatically incorrect expressions in youth language.

As Millennials have invented new words and expressions, mainstream culture has quickly adopted this youth language. Youth language is the result of the relationships of Generation X and Baby Boomers to the Millennial generation, as well as the revolution in technology. There are 80 million Millennials, three times as many as Generation X. They differ from other generations in diet, lifestyle, travel patterns and language. Millennials are dramatic, optimistic and enthusiastic, unlike previous generations where “being cool” was synonymous with “being cynical.” Young people’s language reflects their personalities and thoughts. It is characterized by dramatic words, exaggerations, and the excessive use of exclamation points.

💡 Why youth language?

Youth language is the subject of a conspiracy. Adults consider it a language of rebellion. They believe it serves to provoke and put Millennials in the spotlight. Contrary to what adults may think, youth language is different from their parents, authority figures, and other groups. Essentially, it identifies a person with their peer group.
Because youth language contains unique and impressive words that fit better in context, it is considered an appealing language. Adolescents who use youth language are more admired and more likely to stand out in the eyes of their peers.

💡 Use youth language for the similarity effect.

If you want to convey an advertising message to youth, you need to communicate with them at eye level. Youth language creates the similarity effect. This means that people of the same age and mentality can understand each other better and perceive things in the same way. In branding and advertising, this is a useful technique to attract the attention of people from younger target groups.

💡 Communicate with youth in their language.

Whether it’s “Netflix and Chill” or “Basic and Bae,” you need to keep up with youth if you want to appeal to them and get them talking. The hallmark of youth language is that it’s full of loose words. Regardless of the age difference between you and the younger audience, you can approach them by using casual words. This way, you can communicate with them in their style and strengthen your bond with them.

💡 Appreciate the youth and let them know that they are important

We live in an awake culture. Millennials, also known as the “why generation,” want to be involved in research. They want to be recognized as people who are valued. You can encourage them to express their opinions by understanding their language. Using youth language will help you communicate better with them and do more research by involving them in your studies.