The Evolution of Slang: What We Used to Say vs. Now

Slang in Nigeria isn’t just about language—it’s about culture, identity, and vibe. From the era of “chop knuckle” to the rise of “no cap,” the way we speak has always reflected the times, trends, and Twitter timelines we’re living in. But if you’ve ever caught yourself laughing at how your younger siblings talk or found your throwback phrases being met with side-eyes, then you already know—slang evolves fast.

So, let’s take a trip down memory lane and see how our Nigerian slang has shifted over the years—from what we used to say, to how we say it now.

1. “No wahala” vs. “E no dey pain me”

Then: “No wahala” was the default way of saying “It’s fine” or “No problem.” It still exists today, but back in the day, it was golden. You could use it to brush off drama or politely excuse yourself from stress.

Now: The younger generation now says “E no dey pain me” or even “Na cruise”, which lowkey means “I’m pretending I’m not hurt, but it still dey pain small.” It’s sarcasm and Gen Z detachment wrapped into one.

2. “You dey craze?” vs. “You dey ment?”

Then: “You dey craze?” was the ultimate way to check someone’s sanity—whether joking or serious.

Now: “You dey ment?” has taken over, and Gen Z has added their own flavour. “Ment” is now a full-blown insult or punchline, especially when accompanied by that signature side-eye. Even “mental” has become a standalone roast.

3. “Sharp guy” vs. “Yahoo boy drip”

Then: If someone was street-smart or moved with sense, they were called a “sharp guy.” It was high praise, especially for anyone who knew how to “package” well.

Now: The compliment has evolved—or rather, gotten more layered. Now, looking fly in designer or faking it till you make it earns you “Yahoo boy drip” or “Big baller energy.” These days, it’s more about aesthetic and perceived wealth than just street intelligence.

4. “Gisting” vs. “Spilling tea”

Then: Back then, if you had juicy updates, you were “gisting.” Your gist could start a whole neighborhood debate.

Now: The internet brought in “tea” and now everyone wants to “spill tea” or “serve hot takes.” While we still gist, social media has changed the delivery—and even now, “Twitter threads” are where the real gist drops.

5. “No dulling” vs. “Stay woke”

Then: To say “no dulling” was to encourage someone to remain alert and energetic—especially in Lagos traffic or when partying till dawn.

Now: It’s all about “stay woke” or “no go carry last.” There’s more awareness about being sharp in both social and political spaces, especially with youth-led movements like End SARS and beyond. Slang now doubles as coded activism.

6. “Scatter ground” vs. “Burst everywhere”

Then: “Scatter ground” was how we hyped someone going all out—maybe a performer shutting down a show or someone pulling off an over-the-top birthday party.

Now: We say “He burst everywhere” or “She carry us go where we no know.” The hyperbole is even more dramatic, and with social media, it comes with receipts—videos, quotes, and reposts.

7. “Flex” vs. “Soft life”

Then: “Flexing” was about enjoyment—turning up, balling, showing off.

Now: It’s all about “soft life”—a lifestyle that rejects struggle and stress. It’s not just enjoyment; it’s intentional peace, aesthetics, and ease. Soft life doesn’t just mean money, it means comfort. Bonus: the new slang comes with vibey music and pastel Instagram filters.

So What’s Driving This Evolution?

Slang evolves with technology, music, pop culture, and generational mood. The rise of social media—especially TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Nigerian Twitter—has compressed language into short, catchy, meme-able formats. A phrase that might’ve taken months to catch on before now goes viral in a day.

Artists also shape our slang. From Olamide’s “baddo sneh” era to Burna’s “odogwu”, or Asake’s “terminator”, musicians give the streets fresh lingo to play with. Nollywood and skit makers do their part too. Ever since “you’re doing well” became a meme from Mr Macaroni, we’ve never stopped remixing it.

Slang Is Identity

Whether you’re an OG that still says “omo na wa o” or a Gen Z pro at “aswearugawd”, slang is more than talk—it’s identity. It marks time, reflects culture, and gives us a way to laugh through pain, flex through pressure, and bond over vibes.

So next time you hear someone say “no cap” or “lowkey, that’s a mad ting”, don’t roll your eyes—just know, the language is moving. And as Naija people, we’re always at the forefront of keeping it spicy.