'Ohio' Means Loser? Gen Z Influencer Decrypts Gen Alpha Lingo In Viral TikTok

"Ohio? I have nothing to compare that to."

Haley Jo Klein
TikTok creator Haley Jo Klein Haley Jo Klein/TikTok

A 23 year old social media user went viral after attempting to define words used by the even younger generation, "gen alpha."

Gen Z content creator Haley Jo Klein, who boasts over 300,000 followers on TikTok, has compiled a list of slang terms popularized by Gen Alpha (those born after 2010) that are perplexing even to members of the preceding Gen Z cohort. In a recent TikTok video, Klein attempts to decode these emerging phrases, underscoring the rapid evolution of language and how easy it is to feel "not with the times" in these generational gaps.

The first term that Klein highlights in the video is "bop," which, contrary to its Gen Z usage as a descriptor for an enjoyable song, has taken on a derogatory connotation among Gen Alphas when referring to girls. The second word, "riz," is reportedly used to denote charisma or personal appeal.

Perhaps the most puzzling entry on Klein's list is the term "Ohio," which, according to her understanding, has become synonymous with being a "loser" in the lexicon of the youngest generation. Klein acknowledges the seeming absurdity of the association, but maintains that she is merely reporting the usage as relayed by Gen Alphas.

@haleyjoklein Im scared gen alpha is about to come for me in my comments. They are a scary breed #fyp #genz #genalpha ♬ original sound - Haley Jo Klein :white_heart: | mama

The last phrase Klein mentions, that resonates more clearly is "that's podium," which Klein equates to Gen Z expressions like "that's lit," "that's fire," or "that's gas" - all denoting enthusiasm or approval for something deemed exceptionally impressive or desirable.

Klein's video serves as a lighthearted yet insightful commentary on the rapidly evolving nature of language, particularly among younger demographics. She invited her millennial followers to "stitch the video" and share the equivalent slang from their era, and encourages a cross-generational dialogue on the ever-changing linguistic landscape.

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