Part 9/13:

This rapid evolution of slang has real consequences. Parents and older generations struggle to decode their children’s conversations. For example, phrases like "phantom tax" or "W riz" (meaning charming or charismatic) become inscrutable. Content like TikTok videos featuring young performers adopting these slang terms often go unnoticed or misunderstood by elder viewers.

Moreover, some worry that this insular language fosters a disconnect between generations, hindering meaningful communication and shared cultural understanding. There's also concern about the influence of social media trends on mainstream culture, such as the rising popularity of country music, which some suggest is being artificially propelled through viral content rather than genuine roots.