Gen Alpha Language is a hot topic all over the world. Whether it’s roaming through social media or seeping into highschool gossip, we’ve all seen or heard these words at least somewhere. Some people think of it as an escape from reality – something that helps them connect with peers. Others think of it as cringe, diminishing the standard of speech to something lowly. By addressing both opinions, I would like to highlight why Gen Alpha Language is actually not a good or bad thing but rather a shade of grey.
As a Gen Alpha myself, these words are always at the tip of my tongue whenever someone says something relatable or funny. Words like these allow me to build connections with my fellow classmates. Slang language brings down the need to be professional with friends and helps us connect with each other more intimately. This culture helps keep your conversations lively. Think about it, if you ask someone a question and their answer is a long 3-4 sentence ramble, does it not get awkward afterwards? The conversation is immediately cut out as hesitant goodbyes are exchanged followed by the awkward shuffling of feet. Gen Alpha phrases keep interactions quick and joyous, allowing it to carry on for longer periods of time and for both people partaking in the conversation to get involved. Now think about it; if you’re asking someone a question and they give you a 5-worded answer laced with slang, you can respond immediately and an indulging conversation is born.
However, others think this language to be cringe or damaging for children’s mental health. Slang language has managed to weave itself into professional conversations, lowering standards and creating a sense that one is not linguistic enough to use more formal language. To many, language is something they use to read the personality of the person. The use of Gen Alpha slang portrays you as “less” or “immature”. Not only does this societal norm depict you as less, but it prevents you from broadening your vocabulary.
As shown above, there is no black and white when it comes to Gen Alpha Slang Language. We need to learn how to use these words in moderation, around our friends or family- people closer to us. In this way, we can have prolonged conversations and build close bonds with people our age. However, when conversing with professionals or if one is discussing something sober, refrain from using such language. It doesn’t fit that particular context and simply illustrates you to be immature and unable to understand when to say what. Gen Alpha slang, in my opinion, is definitely a shade of grey – use it in moderation but when you do, have fun with it!!
