10 Gen Z Slangs That Filipinos Love to Use Incorrectly Like Fr, Ngl
Lately, Filipino netizens have started using Gen Z slangs incorrectly in social media and show the humorous misuse of these trendy words.
While some use it improperly on purpose, others might also be confused about what ‘no cap’ means. Luckily for you, we deciphered some of the most used acronyms and terms you often encounter on the internet.
Fr
What it stands for: For Real
Fr is an abbreviation formed from the initial letters of for real. Commonly seen in SMS or on social media, it can mean two things.
One, you may use it when you are baffled or surprised. In this case, you end it with a question mark. On the other hand, the term can also express agreement.
Examples:
“We had a surprise quiz kanina.”
“Are you being fr?”
“Ang sungit niya!”
“Fr bro!”
Ngl
What it stands for: Not Gonna Lie
In most cases, adding ngl to your sentence implies that you are sharing your honest thoughts, even if it may sound offensive or weird. Generally, people use this slang to express what they think regardless.
Examples:
“Ngl, that guy from bumble is cute!”
“That haircut is hideous ngl.”
Istg
What it stands for: I Swear to God
Unlike what others think, it does not stand for Instagram. Instead, istg can signify exasperation or irritation! When a friend refuses to believe your story, you can use this term to express that you are not kidding at all. (Note: Some users modify this to is2g)
Examples:
“Istg I did not go back to my ex!”
“He cheated on me, istg.”
Ig
What it stands for: I Guess
When they are unsure how to respond to a question or feel about something, they usually reply ig to avoid appearing impolite. In the general run of things, you use this acronym to reluctantly agree. Additionally, it can refer to the social media app Instagram.
Examples:
“Hindi ba ang pogi niya?”
“Sure ig.”
“Do you follow me on ig?”
Tho
What it stands for: Shortened form of ‘though’
Technically speaking, though can be either used as a conjunction or an adverb for however or nevertheless. However, tho is most likely used as an adverb and can be seen at the end of the sentence.
Examples:
“That dance move was cool tho!”
“The movie was not good tho.”
Hmu
What it stands for: Hit Me Up
When they tell you hmu, they do not mean to beat them up. It means to contact them by chatting, calling, or hanging out. Often, people say it when they are bored and looking for something to do.
Examples:
“If anyone is down for a coffee, hmu.”
“Got nothing to do! Hmu.”
Tbh
What it stands for: To Be Honest
Tbh, this slang has been on the internet for quite some time. Users add the acronym in their messages when they want to be frank.
Examples:
“Tbh, their nachos suck.”
“I prefer to stay at home tbh.”
Rn
What it means: Right now
An acronym for right now, people use rn to describe the current situation that they are in or to express the present moment.
Examples:
“I’m eating rn i’ll call you back.”
“You have to see this rn!”
Lmao
What it means: Laughing my a** off
Generally, you say lmao in a chat when you find something hilarious like lol (laughing out loud). However, most of us type ‘lmao’ with a straight face and use it in an ironic way.
Examples:
“I fell asleep lmao.”
“Lmao I failed the test.“
Cap / No cap
What it means: Lie or Lying
Do not take this Gen Z term the literal way! When someone says no cap, they mean to say that they are telling the truth. On the contrary, capping is another word for lying.
Examples:
“The Red album is a bop no cap.”
“Are you capping rn?“
While it may be hilarious to use Gen Z slangs improperly, make sure to refrain from doing it in inappropriate situations!
Abegail is a writer whose stories embody "I tried it out so you won't have to." When she isn't busy telling people the next must-visit, she spends her day thrifting and scoring the lowest yet quality deals online. Nothing makes her happier than receiving a much-awaited parcel at her doorstep.