PhD student explains slang to Boomer co-workers

A PhD student shared their experience teaching Boomer co-workers how to use modern slang, and it’s so wholesome.

Sometimes the differences between generations can be so great it’s almost like we’re talking different languages.

But when worlds collide it can create wholesome moments like a Twitter thread from a PhD student teaching her Boomer work colleagues how to use modern slang.

Twitter user The Meanest TA, PhD. started a thread explaining that “everyone on my team (five men ages 48 to 75) texts me to make sure the slang they’re using is correct in context”. She then provided examples.

“From Boss (74): Can I say this meeting got lit if I mean people were getting upset?” she started off.

“Me: No but you can say they were salty about it.”

The Twitter user also used helpful memes to explain certain terms, including this use of one of my favourite memes, which deserves recognition.

‘What does yeet mean?’ Picture: Twitter / The Meanest TA, PhD

The word “yeet” is typically used as an exclamation or a sign of approval - although it can also mean to throw something.

The Meanest TA also shared how she had helped her colleagues by alerting them when a slang word is over, like this men who clearly only just grasped the phrase “hella”.

“Project Manager (48): Do people still say hella?” she wrote.

“Me: Not in this state.”

Then, of course, there is the concept of “spilling the tea”, a phrase I refuse to ever stop using.

‘What does tea mean? Not the liquid’. Picture: Twitter / The Meanest TA, PhD

As in all healthy relationships, however, there is tit for tat. In return for making them hip The Meanest TA shared that her co-workers also help her translate her work frustrations into business appropriate language.

“Me: How do I say there is no way you are this f**king stupid?,” she wrote.

“WorkDad: “I think there was a disconnect, can you restate your definition of this concept so we can ensure there’s no miscommunication?”

I feel like this entry about making sure your co-workers stop wasting your time is a good tip for all of us:

‘How do I say this meeting is a waste of my time …’ Picture: Twitter / The Meanest TA, PhD

As is this advice for a situation all interns and entry-level workers have dealt with — the co-worker who thinks your junior status means they can make you do all kinds of tasks outside of your job description.

“Me: How do I say I am not your secretary?” asked The Meanest TA.

“Elder Curmudgeon: I’m going to redirect you to (name) for assistance on this particular task.”

Finally, she shared this solid reminder to always remember your worth, and to stand up for yourself, respectfully.

‘How do I say I have a goddam PhD do not patronize (sic) me?’ Picture: Twitter / The Meanest TA, PhD

Of course, this language disconnect can happen even from one generation to the next, like this TikTok by a Millennial who started a company with all Gen Z employees who are very happy to keep their communication casual.

@foxandrobin It’s a Gen Z world, I’m just their millennial boss #genz#millenialboss#millenialsoftiktok#startup♬ Borderline - Tame Impala

I might be a Millennial, but it’s a vibe that I’m very into, to be honest.