Every generation brings its own vocabulary into the workplace, and Gen Z (born roughly 1997–2012) is no exception. For managers used to more traditional workplace language, some of these terms can feel like a different dialect entirely. Understanding them isn’t about “keeping up with the kids,” it’s about communicating clearly and avoiding costly misunderstandings.

Why This Matters

• Misreading Gen Z language can lead to misjudging their attitude, commitment or professionalism
• Younger employees often use workplace slang without realising older colleagues won’t follow it
• Bridging this gap improves feedback conversations, performance reviews and day-to-day management

Key Terms Decoded

“Quiet quitting”

Doing exactly what the job description requires – no more, no less. Not resignation; it’s a rejection of unpaid overtime and “hustle culture.” If you hear this, it’s often a signal an employee wants clearer boundaries, not that they’ve disengaged.

“Bare minimum Monday”

Easing into the week deliberately rather than sprinting from 9am. Can be a reaction to burnout culture, not laziness.

“Rizz”

Charisma or charm, especially in a social or persuasive sense. You might hear it used admiringly about a colleague who’s good with clients.

“Ghosting” (in a work context)

Going silent – not responding to interview follow-ups, or in some cases, not showing up to a new job without notice. A real recruitment challenge worth naming directly with candidates early on.

“Cheugy”

Something perceived as outdated or trying too hard (a term, a trend, even a management style). Worth knowing so you understand if your “team building” ideas are landing the way you think.

“Main character energy”

Confidence and self-assuredness – usually positive, describing someone who takes ownership and doesn’t shrink themselves in meetings.

“Soft launch” / “hard launch”

Borrowed from social media – a soft launch is testing something quietly (a new process, an idea) before a full rollout (hard launch). You may hear this applied to projects.

“Touch grass”

Take a break, step away from screens. If a younger colleague says this to a stressed teammate, it’s meant kindly, not as an insult.

“It’s giving…”

A way of describing a vibe or impression (e.g. “that presentation was giving corporate 2015”). Usually observational, not necessarily critical.

“Delulu”

Short for delusional – often self-deprecating, used about unrealistic hopes (e.g. “delulu about that promotion”). Rarely meant as a serious insult.

Practical Takeaways for Managers

• Don’t assume slang signals disengagement – many of these terms describe boundaries, not attitude problems
• Ask what a term means if you’re unsure, rather than guessing; it builds rapport rather than undermining authority
• Recognise that “quiet quitting” and “bare minimum Monday” often point to burnout or unclear expectations – worth addressing directly
• Use plain, direct language in formal settings (reviews, contracts, disciplinary conversations) regardless of the informal register used day-to-day

The Bigger Picture

Language aside, Gen Z employees generally value transparency, flexibility and clear communication about expectations. Understanding their vocabulary is a small but useful step toward building that trust.