If you’re new to the U.S. or studying English through an ESL F-1 visa program or ESOL F-1 visa program, one thing you’ll quickly notice is that Americans love their slang! Slang can be confusing but also a lot of fun once you start picking it up. It’s a casual, conversational language that doesn’t always follow the rules of formal English, but it helps you sound more like a native speaker. The following slang terms will make you feel more integrated with American culture.

1. Y’all

This is a must-know if you’re in the Southern United States. “Y’all” is a contraction of “you all” and is used to address a group of people. It’s friendly, informal, and a great way to fit in when chatting with locals. Here’s an example:

• “Y’all coming to the party tonight?”

Even if you’re not from the South, it can be a handy term to know, especially if you’re living in Georgia where it’s used often!

2. Lit

When something is “lit,” it’s exciting, fun, or amazing. You might hear someone say:

• “That concert was lit last night!”

It’s one of those expressions that you’ll hear a lot from younger people, so if you’re shopping at a mall, at Six Flags, or at a restaurant you might hear this slang used frequently.

3. Throw Shade

To “throw shade” means to subtly insult or criticize someone. It’s often used when someone is being a bit sneaky about their criticism. Example:

• “Did you hear how she threw shade at him during the meeting?”

This phrase is a bit more specific to modern pop culture, but knowing it can help you understand everyday conversations better, especially amongst American friends.

4. Ghost

If someone “ghosts” you, it means they suddenly stop replying to your texts or calls without any explanation. You might hear this in the dating world or even in casual friendships.

• “I thought we were getting along, but then she ghosted me.”

Learning this slang is essential if you’re studying abroad in the U.S. through our ESL F-1 study abroad program because it reflects modern communication styles.

5. Flex

“Flex” means to show off or brag about something, often something like clothes, cars, or success. You might hear:

• “He’s always flexing on Instagram with his new car.”

When you’re immersed in American culture while studying English as a Second Language or for the TOEFL, you’ll hear this term quite often in both social settings and online.

6. Extra

Someone who is being “extra” is over-the-top or dramatic, usually in a situation that doesn’t call for it. For example:

• “Why’s she being so extra about the outfit?”

It’s a fun term that adds some personality to your vocabulary and can come in handy in both casual and formal conversations in the U.S.

7. On Point

When something is “on point,” it means it’s perfect or done well. People often use it to compliment food, style, or skills.

• “Her outfit is on point today.”

Using phrases like this will help you sound like you’ve been speaking English for years, even if you’re still learning.

8. I Feel You

This is a way to say, “I understand you” or “I get what you’re saying.” It’s an empathetic response that shows you can relate to someone’s feelings or situation.

• “I feel you, finals week is so stressful.”

This slang is great for socializing and building rapport with classmates and friends, especially during our English learning program.

Why Slang Matters in Your English Learning Journey

Learning American slang while studying English can improve your conversational skills and help you blend in with native speakers. Slang is often left out of traditional language programs, but real-world language use includes knowing the informal expressions that locals use daily.

Bringing It All Together

Studying English in an F-1 intensive English program or ESOL F-1 visa program means you’ll hear and use slang in day-to-day life. Not only will these terms help you navigate social situations, but they’ll also make your interactions more authentic. So next time someone asks, “Y’all coming?” you’ll know exactly how to respond and maybe even throw in some slang of your own!