Slovenian, a South Slavic language spoken by around 2.5 million people, is the official language of Slovenia. As with any living language, Slovenian evolves and adapts to the times, incorporating new terms and phrases that reflect the contemporary lifestyle, especially among the younger generation. Millennials in Slovenia, like their counterparts around the globe, have developed their own slang and expressions that are integral to their everyday communication. Whether you’re a language enthusiast, a traveler, or someone with Slovenian roots, understanding these terms can provide a window into the culture and a way to connect with younger Slovenians. Here are the top 10 Slovenian millennial terms you need to know.

1. Fejstbukati

The term “fejstbukati” is derived from the English word “Facebook” and has been adapted into Slovenian. It means to use Facebook or to be active on the platform. Given the global popularity of Facebook, it’s no surprise that Slovenians have created a verb for it. If you hear someone say, “Bom fejstbukal kasneje,” it means, “I will Facebook later.”

2. Instaš

Similar to “fejstbukati,” “instaš” refers to the social media platform Instagram. This term is used predominantly by younger Slovenians who spend a lot of time sharing pictures and stories on Instagram. For example, “Dodal sem novo sliko na instaš,” translates to, “I added a new picture on Instagram.”

3. Selfič

“Selfič” is the Slovenian adaptation of the English word “selfie.” With the rise of social media, taking selfies has become a universal activity. In Slovenia, you might hear someone say, “Naredimo selfič,” which means, “Let’s take a selfie.”

4. Kul

“Kul” is a Slovenian adaptation of the English word “cool.” This term is used to describe something that is trendy, fashionable, or generally positive. For instance, “Ta jakna je res kul,” translates to, “This jacket is really cool.”

5. Čilati

Derived from the English word “chill,” “čilati” means to relax or take it easy. This term is popular among Slovenians who want to unwind and take a break from their busy lives. You might hear someone say, “Danes bom čilal doma,” meaning, “Today I will chill at home.”

6. Šopingirati

“Šopingirati” comes from the English word “shopping.” This verb is used to describe the act of going shopping. For example, “Gremo šopingirat v mesto,” translates to, “Let’s go shopping in the city.”

7. Brezveze

“Brezveze” is a colloquial term used to describe something that is pointless or without value. It’s similar to the English phrase “It’s useless” or “It doesn’t make sense.” For example, “To je čist brezveze,” means, “That is completely pointless.”

8. Fajn

“Fajn” is a versatile Slovenian word that can mean nice, good, or fine. It is often used to describe how someone is feeling or to express approval. For instance, “Danes se počutim fajn,” translates to, “I feel good today.”

9. Kulturni šok

“Kulturni šok” is a direct translation of the English term “culture shock.” It is used to describe the feeling of disorientation someone might experience when they are exposed to a new and different culture. For example, “Ko sem prvič prišel v tujino, sem doživel kulturni šok,” means, “When I first went abroad, I experienced culture shock.”

10. Frend

“Frend” is the Slovenian adaptation of the English word “friend.” This term is widely used among Slovenians to refer to their friends in an informal setting. For example, “Moj frend me je povabil na zabavo,” translates to, “My friend invited me to a party.”

Understanding the Context

The adoption of these terms into everyday Slovenian language is a reflection of globalization and the influence of English, especially through the internet and social media. Younger Slovenians often incorporate English words into their conversations, creating a unique blend of languages that is both modern and culturally specific.

These terms are not just linguistic adaptations; they also carry cultural significance. They reflect the lifestyles, values, and social dynamics of the younger generation in Slovenia. For instance, the use of “fejstbukati” and “instaš” highlights the importance of social media in their daily lives, while “čilati” and “šopingirati” reflect contemporary leisure activities.

Practical Applications

Understanding these terms can be particularly useful for anyone planning to visit Slovenia or interact with Slovenians, especially younger people. Here are a few practical scenarios where knowing these terms could come in handy:

1. **Social Media**: If you’re following Slovenian influencers or trying to engage with Slovenian content on social media, understanding terms like “fejstbukati,” “instaš,” and “selfič” can help you navigate and participate in conversations.

2. **Casual Conversations**: If you’re hanging out with Slovenian millennials, using terms like “kul,” “čilati,” and “frend” can help you fit in and make your interactions more natural and relatable.

3. **Shopping and Leisure**: If you’re exploring Slovenian cities and want to go shopping or relax, knowing terms like “šopingirati” and “čilati” can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

4. **Expressing Feelings**: Terms like “fajn” and “brezveze” can help you express your feelings and opinions more effectively, making your communication more nuanced and authentic.

Tips for Learning Slovenian Slang

1. **Immerse Yourself**: The best way to learn slang is through immersion. Watch Slovenian movies, follow Slovenian social media accounts, and listen to Slovenian music. Pay attention to the context in which these slang terms are used.

2. **Practice with Natives**: If possible, practice speaking with native Slovenians. They can provide insights into the correct usage and nuances of slang terms that you might not get from a textbook.

3. **Stay Updated**: Slang evolves rapidly, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest terms and trends. Follow Slovenian pop culture and media to keep up with new slang.

4. **Use Language Apps**: Language learning apps like Duolingo, Memrise, or Babbel often include sections on slang and informal speech. These can be useful tools for expanding your vocabulary.

5. **Join Online Communities**: Participate in online forums or social media groups dedicated to learning Slovenian. These communities often share slang terms and offer practical advice on their usage.

Conclusion

Learning Slovenian millennial slang is not just about expanding your vocabulary; it’s about gaining a deeper understanding of the culture and the people who speak the language. These terms offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of young Slovenians, their interests, and their modes of communication. By incorporating these terms into your Slovenian vocabulary, you can enhance your language skills and build more meaningful connections with Slovenian speakers. So, the next time you find yourself in Slovenia or interacting with Slovenians, don’t hesitate to use these millennial terms – you might just impress someone with your linguistic savvy!