In the ever-evolving world of language, slang terms come and go, often reflecting the cultural and societal trends of the time. For those learning Afrikaans, especially if you’re keen on connecting with the younger generation, understanding contemporary slang can be incredibly valuable. Gen Z, known for their unique take on language, has infused Afrikaans with a vibrant array of new terms. These slang words not only add flavor to conversations but also help bridge the gap between different age groups. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 Afrikaans Gen Z slang terms you need to know.

1. Lekker

One of the most versatile and widely used Afrikaans words, lekker translates to “nice,” “good,” or “cool.” While it’s not exclusive to Gen Z, its frequent usage among younger people makes it a staple in modern Afrikaans slang. You might hear it in various contexts, from describing a tasty meal to appreciating a fun event.

Example: “Die partytjie was so lekker!” (The party was so cool!)

2. Jol

Originally meaning “to party” or “have a good time,” jol has become a quintessential term in the Afrikaans youth lexicon. It’s used to describe anything related to fun and entertainment. Whether you’re heading to a concert or just hanging out with friends, jol fits the bill.

Example: “Ons gaan vanaand jol by die klub.” (We’re going to party at the club tonight.)

3. Befok

An expressive term that can be both positive and negative, befok generally means “crazy” or “amazing.” Context is key with this one, as it can describe something extraordinarily good or something utterly chaotic.

Example: “Die nuwe speletjie is befok!” (The new game is amazing!)

4. Bra

Similar to “bro” or “dude” in English, bra is a term of camaraderie among young people. It’s a casual way to address a friend or acquaintance, typically used by males but increasingly by females as well.

Example: “Wat gaan aan, bra?” (What’s up, dude?)

5. Chommie

Derived from the English word “chum,” chommie means “friend” or “buddy.” It’s an endearing way to refer to someone you’re close to, often used in a light-hearted context.

Example: “Ek en my chommie gaan fliek toe.” (My friend and I are going to the movies.)

6. Zaber

This term is a more recent addition to the Afrikaans slang dictionary. Zaber means “to grab” or “to take.” It’s often used in the context of quickly picking something up or taking advantage of an opportunity.

Example: “Ek gaan gou die laaste stukkie koek zaber.” (I’m quickly going to grab the last piece of cake.)

7. Bliksem

Originally meaning “lightning,” bliksem is a multipurpose word in Afrikaans slang. It can be used as an expletive, an expression of surprise, or even to describe someone who is troublesome. Its versatility makes it a favorite among Gen Z.

Example: “Jy’s ‘n regte bliksem!” (You’re a real troublemaker!)

8. Kief

A term that has made a resurgence among Gen Z, kief means “cool” or “awesome.” It’s used to describe anything that is impressive or exciting, from people to experiences.

Example: “Daai is ‘n kief kar!” (That’s a cool car!)

9. Zef

Popularized by the South African rap-rave group Die Antwoord, zef describes a unique subculture that blends style and attitude. It can be both a compliment and a form of self-identification, often implying a rebellious, street-smart persona.

Example: “Hy lyk so zef met daai hare.” (He looks so cool with that hair.)

10. Skarrel

A term that originated from the Afrikaans word for “scramble,” skarrel has evolved to mean “casual relationship” or “fling.” It’s commonly used among young people to describe a non-committed romantic interaction.

Example: “Hulle het net ‘n skarrel gehad.” (They just had a fling.)

Conclusion

Understanding these top 10 Afrikaans Gen Z slang terms will not only enhance your grasp of the language but also help you connect more effectively with younger speakers. Slang is a dynamic and ever-changing aspect of any language, reflecting cultural shifts and societal trends. By incorporating these terms into your vocabulary, you’ll gain a deeper insight into contemporary Afrikaans culture and enrich your language-learning journey. So next time you find yourself in a conversation with a young Afrikaans speaker, don’t hesitate to throw in a lekker or a jol—you might just impress them with your up-to-date lingo!