It’s a known fact that language is something that constantly evolves. In fact, some even say that it’s “a living, breathing entity” in the sense that it’s constantly changing and adapting to the needs of the speakers.
As proof of this, you can take a look at how the English language looked, for example, in Shakespearean times and how it looks right now – throughout hundreds of years, it has changed quite a bit.
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Actually, to notice the differences, you don’t have to go so far back in time; you can go back only a few decades. Granted, the contrast isn’t as grand as with hundreds of years ago, but still quite noticeable, especially when it comes to slang.
Like in the '80s, words like selfie weren’t really a thing. While taking pics of yourself was something people did, they didn’t have a specific word for it, as the term only took off in the 2000s. Now, it seems like an inherent part of your daily language, but not that long ago, it didn’t even exist.
Similarly with the word hashtag. If, back in the '80s or '90s, you had said this word to someone, they would have looked at you strangely, because it would have sounded like gibberish. Well, it was gibberish at the time, because it didn’t exist, as it was coined only in 2007. Nowadays, it’s hard to find a person who doesn't know what this term means.
So, as you can see, language is dynamic; it keeps changing along with and for people. Each generation brings something new to the language and communication table. It’s no secret that Gen Z has too.
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A lot of the changes that Gen Z has to offer in this area are highly influenced by internet culture. Their style of giving compliments is no exception. This was pointed out by a teacher on TikTok, @gibsonishere. In one of her videos, she discussed what kind of comments she has witnessed from younger people and how they have surprised her.
The first type is simple words like “queen”, “diva”,” GOAT,” and things like that, which are pretty straightforward. The second type is pretty basic too, with compliments like “you’re pretty”, “you’re nice”, and so on.
Then, there’s a third type, which kind of confuses the teacher. It’s when youngsters say a compliment and then add something a little weird or even troubling to it. For instance, “I like you, I hope both sides of your pillow are cold.” Or “You’re funny, don’t go bald.”
If you spend enough time online, especially on TikTok, you will likely see at least a couple of comments like that. The thing is that they don’t really have any deep underlying meaning; it’s just a fun way to show admiration.
So, today we compiled a whole list of various compliments like that for you to enjoy and maybe get inspired for next time you want to praise someone. Upvote, and if you have any other variations, share them in the comments!
