Ah, Gen Z British slang when it comes to dating is a whole vibe!
It’s playful, often informal, and packed with quirky expressions that reflect the way young people communicate nowadays.
If you’re familiar with TikTok, Instagram, or the UK music scene, you’ve probably come across some of these phrases.
Here are some of the most popular Gen Z British slang expressions related to dating:
1. "To ghost someone"
Meaning: To suddenly stop responding to someone’s messages, leaving them in the dark with no explanation. Example: “We were texting loads, and then he just ghosted me. No idea what happened!”
2. "To breadcrumble"
Meaning: Similar to ghosting, but this is when someone gives just enough attention (like small compliments or messages) to keep you interested, but never enough to actually move things forward. Example: “I’ve been getting breadcrummed for weeks. He sends me messages, but never wants to meet up.”
3. "To slide into someone’s DMs"
Meaning: To send a direct message on social media, usually as a way of flirting or making the first move.Example: “I saw her on Instagram, so I slid into her DMs to ask if she wanted to grab a coffee.”
4. "Rizz" or "To rizz someone up"
Meaning: To flirt or charm someone, especially with smooth or confident talk. Example: “He’s got so much rizz, he could probably talk anyone into going on a date with him.”
5. "To cuff someone"
Meaning: To make someone your official partner, to "lock them down."Example: “It looks like they're cuffed now. They’ve been inseparable for weeks.”
6. "To catch feels"
Meaning: To develop romantic feelings for someone. Example: “I think I’m starting to catch feels for him, but I don’t know if he feels the same way.”
7. "No strings attached"
Meaning: A casual, no-commitment type of relationship or hookup. Example: “We’re just having fun, no strings attached.”
8. "To get with someone"
Meaning: To kiss or be physically intimate with someone, sometimes used to imply you’re dating casually. Example: “Did you see them at the party? They totally got with each other.”
9. "That’s a vibe"
Meaning: Used to describe someone or something that gives off a good, attractive energy or feeling. When it comes to dating, it can mean the person is appealing or the chemistry is there. Example: “I went on a date with her last night. She’s really cool, totally a vibe.”
10. "To be vibing"
Meaning: Feeling a strong connection or chemistry with someone, often in a laid-back way. Example: “We’ve been talking for a bit now, and we’re really vibing.”
11. "Situationship"
Meaning: A relationship that’s more than friendship but without any clear definition or commitment. It’s a grey area where people are hooking up or spending time together, but there’s no label or serious commitment. Example: “We’re not dating, but we’re kind of in a situationship. We don’t really talk about it.”
12. "To be on the pull"
Meaning: Looking for someone to hook up with or date, often used when you're out socialising or at a party. Example: “He’s definitely on the pull tonight. He’s trying to get a date before the night ends.”
13. "To leave someone on read"
Meaning: Reading someone’s message but not replying. Example: “She left me on read after I told her I liked her. I’m not sure what to think.”
14. "Wifey material"
Meaning: Someone who is considered a potential long-term partner or wife because of their qualities or behaviour. Example: “She’s definitely wifey material. So kind, funny, and down to earth.”
15. "To catch a dub"
Meaning: To win or score a successful romantic connection or victory, often used when someone is impressed or gets a date. Example: “I finally asked her out and she said yes—catching a dub right there!”
These expressions reflect the playful, often light-hearted nature of modern dating in the UK. British Gen Z loves using slang to keep things fun and casual, but understanding these terms will help you communicate like a native and fit right in with today’s dating scene.
Why British Dating Slang Matters
Learning Gen Z British slang gives you a glimpse into the British dating world that’s not just about the formalities but about connecting in a relaxed, fun way. These phrases are commonly used in social media, texting, and casual conversations, making them important to know if you want to sound natural and current in your interactions.
Just like in many cultures, British dating language evolves and reflects the mindset of the generation. Whether you’re looking to ask someone out or want to understand the dynamics of a “situationship,” these slang expressions will give you the edge when navigating romantic conversations. And let’s be honest—using them in the right context will help you build stronger connections with native speakers.
Want to Speak Like a Native and Master British English?
If you want to go beyond slang and truly master British English, my private classes can help. Together, we’ll dive deep into the language and culture, helping you understand not just how to speak but how to connect in the most natural way.
Send me an email, and let’s start working together to make your English journey fun and fluent.
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