If you’re looking to level up your vocabulary and stay ahead of the curve, then you’re in the right place. We’ve scoured the depths of the English language to bring you a handpicked selection of slang for growth. Whether you’re trying to impress your friends or simply want to stay in the know, this listicle is your ultimate guide to mastering the latest slang that will make you sound like a language connoisseur. Get ready to expand your linguistic horizons and embrace the power of words!
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1. Glow up
This term refers to a positive transformation or improvement in someone’s appearance, lifestyle, or overall confidence. It often implies a significant change over time.
- For example, a person might post a before-and-after photo and caption it, “From awkward teen to confident adult. #glowup”
- Someone might say, “She really had a glow up after college. She’s so stylish now.”
- Another might comment, “I need to start hitting the gym. I’m due for a glow up.”
2. Level up
This phrase signifies progress or improvement in a particular area. It can refer to personal growth, skill development, or reaching a higher level of achievement.
- For instance, a gamer might say, “I finally leveled up and unlocked the secret level.”
- A person discussing their career might say, “I’m ready to level up and take on more responsibility.”
- Someone might encourage a friend by saying, “Keep pushing yourself. It’s time to level up.”
3. Boss up
To “boss up” means to take control of one’s life, make confident decisions, and assert oneself in a powerful and authoritative manner. It often conveys a sense of empowerment and self-assuredness.
- For example, a person might say, “I’m tired of being passive. It’s time to boss up and go after what I want.”
- A motivational speaker might say, “Don’t wait for opportunities. Boss up and create them.”
- Another might encourage a friend by saying, “You’ve got what it takes. Now it’s time to boss up.”
4. Flex
To “flex” means to show off or boast about one’s possessions, achievements, or abilities. It is often used in a bragging or self-promoting manner.
- For instance, a person might post a photo of their new car and caption it, “Just got this beauty. #flexing”
- Someone might say, “He’s always flexing about his high-paying job.”
- Another might comment, “No need to flex. We’re all impressed with your skills.”
5. Grind
This term refers to the act of working hard, often with determination and persistence, to achieve a goal or make progress. It emphasizes the importance of putting in effort and staying focused.
- For example, a person might say, “I’m on the grind to finish this project by the deadline.”
- A student might say, “I’ve been grinding all night to study for this exam.”
- Another might encourage someone by saying, “Keep grinding. Your hard work will pay off.”
6. Hustle
The term “hustle” refers to putting in consistent effort and working hard to achieve success or reach a goal. It often involves taking on multiple tasks or projects and staying motivated despite challenges.
- For example, someone might say, “I’m going to hustle to get this project done by the deadline.”
- A motivational speaker might encourage their audience by saying, “Keep hustling and never give up on your dreams.”
- In a discussion about entrepreneurship, someone might mention, “Successful business owners understand the importance of the hustle.”
7. Thrive
To “thrive” means to grow, prosper, or flourish in a particular area of life. It implies not just surviving, but thriving in a way that brings fulfillment and success.
- For instance, someone might say, “I want to thrive in my career and make a positive impact.”
- A business owner might talk about their company’s growth and say, “Our goal is to thrive in a competitive market.”
- In a discussion about personal development, someone might mention, “Taking care of your mental and physical health is essential for thriving in all aspects of life.”
8. Ball out
The phrase “ball out” is slang for spending money extravagantly or showing off one’s wealth or success. It often implies indulging in luxurious or extravagant experiences.
- For example, someone might say, “I’m going to ball out on my vacation and stay in a fancy hotel.”
- A celebrity might post pictures on social media and caption it, “Just balling out in my new mansion.”
- In a conversation about celebrating achievements, someone might say, “When I reach my goal, I’m going to ball out and treat myself.”
9. Leveling up
To “level up” means to advance or improve in a specific area, often in terms of skills, knowledge, or personal growth. It implies moving to a higher level of proficiency or success.
- For instance, someone might say, “I’m working on leveling up my coding skills.”
- A gamer might talk about their progress in a video game and say, “I just leveled up and unlocked a new ability.”
- In a discussion about career development, someone might mention, “Continual learning and self-improvement are key to leveling up in the workplace.”
10. Bossing up
The phrase “bossing up” means taking charge of one’s life or situation and becoming successful or achieving one’s goals. It implies a sense of empowerment and confidence.
- For example, someone might say, “I’m tired of being stuck. It’s time to boss up and make things happen.”
- A motivational speaker might encourage their audience by saying, “You have the power to boss up and create the life you want.”
- In a conversation about personal growth, someone might mention, “Bossing up means taking responsibility for your actions and decisions.”
11. Flexing
Flexing is a term used to describe showing off or bragging about one’s achievements, possessions, or abilities. It is often used in the context of social media, where people post pictures or videos to display their success.
12. Grinding
Grinding refers to working hard and putting in a lot of effort to achieve a goal or success. It is often used to describe someone who is dedicated and determined to achieve their dreams.
13. Hustling
Hustling refers to working multiple jobs or side gigs in order to make money or achieve success. It often involves taking on various opportunities and being resourceful.
14. Thriving
Thriving refers to flourishing and succeeding in various aspects of life, such as career, relationships, and personal growth. It implies a state of well-being and prosperity.
15. Balling out
Balling out refers to living extravagantly and spending money lavishly. It is often used to describe someone who is enjoying a luxurious lifestyle or indulging in high-end experiences.
16. Progressing
This term is used to describe the act of making progress or moving forward in a positive direction. It can refer to personal growth, career advancement, or any other type of improvement.
- For example, “I’m progressing well in my new job and learning a lot.”
- A student might say, “I’m progressing in my studies and getting better grades.”
- Someone might comment, “I’m proud of how I’m progressing in my fitness journey.”
17. Advancing
This term is similar to “progressing” but often implies a more significant level of progress or advancement in a specific field or area. It can refer to career advancement, skill development, or any other type of forward movement.
- For instance, “She’s advancing quickly in her career and taking on more responsibilities.”
- A musician might say, “I’ve been advancing my skills on the guitar and can play more complex songs now.”
- Someone might comment, “He’s advancing in his martial arts training and earning higher belt ranks.”
18. Improving
This term refers to the act of becoming better or making something better. It can apply to personal growth, skill development, or any other type of positive change or enhancement.
- For example, “I’m improving my communication skills by practicing active listening.”
- A chef might say, “I’m constantly improving my recipes and trying new techniques.”
- Someone might comment, “Her performance has been improving steadily over the past few months.”
19. Succeeding
This term is used to describe the act of achieving success or reaching a desired outcome. It can refer to personal goals, professional achievements, or any other type of accomplishment.
- For instance, “He’s succeeding in his business venture and seeing significant growth.”
- A student might say, “I’m succeeding in my studies and maintaining a high GPA.”
- Someone might comment, “She’s succeeding in her weight loss journey and reaching her target weight.”
20. Rise and shine
This term is a casual and friendly way to tell someone to wake up and start the day energetically. It is often used as a morning greeting or as an encouragement to get out of bed and start the day.
- For example, “Rise and shine! It’s a beautiful day outside.”
- A parent might say, “Time to rise and shine, sleepyhead. School starts soon.”
- Someone might cheerfully say, “Rise and shine, everyone! Let’s make the most of the day.”
21. Scaling up
This phrase is used to describe a business or organization that is experiencing significant growth and expanding its operations or reach.
- For example, a startup might say, “We’re scaling up our operations to meet the growing demand.”
- A business owner might discuss their plans by saying, “Our goal is to scale up and become a national brand.”
- A tech company might announce, “We’re scaling up our server capacity to handle increased user traffic.”
22. Crushing it
This slang phrase is used to describe someone who is achieving great success or performing at a very high level in their endeavors.
- For instance, a salesperson might say, “I closed three big deals today. I’m really crushing it.”
- A musician might exclaim, “Our band had an amazing concert last night. We were really crushing it on stage.”
- A student might proudly say, “I aced my exams this semester. I’m definitely crushing it academically.”
23. On the rise
This phrase is used to describe something that is experiencing growth or gaining popularity.
- For example, a new artist might be described as “on the rise” if their music is gaining attention and their fanbase is growing.
- A trend or fashion style might be said to be “on the rise” if it is becoming more popular and widespread.
- A company might be described as “on the rise” if it is experiencing significant revenue growth and expanding its market share.
24. Moving up the ladder
This slang phrase is used to describe someone who is progressing and achieving higher positions or levels of success in their career or social status.
- For instance, a young professional might say, “I’ve been working hard and moving up the ladder at my company.”
- A friend might congratulate someone by saying, “Congratulations on the promotion! You’re really moving up the ladder.”
- A mentor might advise their mentee, “Focus on gaining new skills and taking on challenging projects if you want to keep moving up the ladder.”
25. Blossom
In the context of growth, this slang term is used to describe someone or something that is flourishing or thriving, often after a period of development or improvement.
- For example, a business might be described as “blossoming” if it is experiencing rapid growth and success.
- A person who has overcome challenges and achieved their goals might be said to have “blossomed” in their personal or professional life.
- A project or idea that has gained widespread recognition and support might be described as “blossoming” in its success.
26. Skyrocket
To “skyrocket” means to increase rapidly or to rise quickly. It is often used to describe significant growth or success.
- For example, “Sales of the new product skyrocketed after the marketing campaign.”
- A business might say, “Our company’s revenue has skyrocketed in the past year.”
- A sports team might boast, “Our star player’s popularity has skyrocketed since winning the championship.”
27. Going from strength to strength
This phrase means to continuously improve or become increasingly successful over time.
- For instance, “The company has been going from strength to strength, expanding into new markets.”
- A person might say, “I’ve been going from strength to strength in my career, receiving promotions and raises.”
- A musician might say, “My album sales have been going from strength to strength, gaining more and more listeners.”
28. Rocketing
“Rocketing” means to increase rapidly or to rise quickly, similar to the trajectory of a rocket. It is often used to describe significant growth or success.
- For example, “The company’s stock price has been rocketing since the release of their new product.”
- A person might say, “Her popularity has been rocketing on social media, gaining thousands of followers.”
- A sports team might say, “Our team’s performance has been rocketing this season, winning game after game.”
29. Boom
To “boom” means to experience rapid growth or success. It is often used to describe a period of economic prosperity or a sudden increase in popularity.
- For instance, “The tech industry is booming, with new startups emerging every day.”
- A person might say, “Her career has been booming since she started her own business.”
- A musician might say, “The band’s new album is booming, with sold-out concerts and chart-topping hits.”
30. Take off
To “take off” means to experience rapid growth or success. It is often used to describe a sudden increase in popularity or the start of a successful endeavor.
- For example, “The company’s new product has taken off, with high demand and positive reviews.”
- A person might say, “His career took off after he won an award for his work.”
- A business owner might say, “Our sales have taken off since we launched our online store.”
31. Surge
This term refers to a sudden and significant increase in growth or activity. It is often used to describe a sudden surge in popularity or demand.
- For example, “The company experienced a surge in sales after the new product launch.”
- In a discussion about website traffic, one might say, “We saw a surge in traffic after the article went viral.”
- A sports commentator might comment, “The team made a surge in the second half of the game, scoring multiple goals in a short period of time.”
32. Flourish
To flourish means to grow or develop in a healthy and successful way. It is often used to describe a business or individual who is experiencing significant growth or success.
- For instance, “The startup began to flourish after securing a major investment.”
- In a conversation about personal development, one might say, “I’ve been taking steps to help my career flourish.”
- A gardener might comment, “The plants in this garden are flourishing due to the ideal growing conditions.”
33. Expand
This term refers to the act of growing or increasing in size, scope, or capacity. It is often used to describe a business or organization that is broadening its reach or operations.
- For example, “The company plans to expand its operations to international markets.”
- In a discussion about a retail store, one might say, “We need to expand our product offerings to attract more customers.”
- A business owner might comment, “We are looking to expand our team by hiring additional employees.”
34. Scale up
To scale up means to increase the size, volume, or capacity of something. It is often used in business contexts to describe the process of expanding operations or production.
- For instance, “The company is looking to scale up its manufacturing capabilities to meet growing demand.”
- In a conversation about a successful startup, one might say, “They were able to scale up their business quickly due to their innovative approach.”
- An entrepreneur might comment, “Scaling up a business requires careful planning and resource allocation.”
35. Rocket
To rocket means to rise or increase rapidly and dramatically. It is often used to describe a significant and sudden increase in growth, popularity, or success.
- For example, “The stock price rocketed after the company announced record-breaking earnings.”
- In a discussion about a new app, one might say, “It’s amazing to see how this app has rocketed to the top of the charts.”
- A music critic might comment, “The band’s latest album has rocketed to number one on the charts, showcasing their immense popularity.”
36. Soar
When something “soars,” it means that it experiences a significant and rapid increase in growth or success. This term is often used to describe financial markets, stock prices, or business performance.
- For example, “The company’s stock price soared after the release of their new product.”
- A business owner might say, “Our sales have been soaring since we implemented our new marketing strategy.”
- A financial analyst might comment, “The stock market soared to new heights today, breaking several records.”
37. Boomtown
A “boomtown” refers to a town or city that experiences a sudden and significant increase in population, economic activity, or development. This term is often used to describe areas that are thriving due to factors such as natural resources, industry, or tourism.
- For instance, “Silicon Valley was once a small town but has now become a booming tech hub.”
- A news article might report, “The discovery of oil has turned the previously quiet town into a bustling boomtown.”
- A real estate agent might advertise, “Invest in properties in this booming boomtown before prices skyrocket.”
38. Breakout
When something experiences a “breakout,” it means that it undergoes a sudden and significant increase in growth or success. This term is often used in reference to industries, artists, or trends that gain widespread attention and popularity.
- For example, “The breakout artist’s debut album topped the charts within a week.”
- A tech journalist might write, “The new smartphone model is expected to have a breakout year, surpassing its competitors.”
- A sports commentator might say, “The rookie player had a breakout season, exceeding all expectations.”
39. Spike
A “spike” refers to a sharp and temporary increase in growth or activity. This term is often used to describe sudden rises in statistics, data, or trends.
- For instance, “There was a spike in website traffic after the viral video was shared.”
- A health official might warn, “There has been a spike in flu cases in the past week.”
- A journalist might report, “The stock market experienced a spike in trading volume following the announcement.”
40. Snowball
To “snowball” means to gradually and cumulatively increase in size, importance, or impact. This term is often used to describe the process of growth or success that starts small but gains momentum over time.
- For example, “The small startup’s success snowballed as they gained more customers and investors.”
- A teacher might say, “Once you understand the basics, your knowledge will snowball as you delve deeper into the subject.”
- A financial advisor might explain, “By consistently saving and investing, your wealth can snowball over the years.”
41. Mushroom
To “mushroom” means to grow or expand rapidly, similar to the way a mushroom blooms overnight. It is often used to describe sudden or exponential growth.
- For example, “The company’s profits mushroomed after the new product launch.”
- In discussing a viral video, someone might say, “The video’s popularity mushroomed overnight.”
- A business owner might say, “We need to find a way to make our sales mushroom in the next quarter.”
42. Rocketship
A “rocketship” refers to a situation or entity that is experiencing rapid and significant growth, similar to a rocket soaring into the sky. It is often used to describe a business or career that is progressing quickly.
- For instance, “Her startup is a rocketship in the tech industry.”
- A person might say, “I joined this company because I saw it as a rocketship for my career.”
- In discussing a successful investment, someone might say, “I got in early on that stock and rode the rocketship to huge profits.”
43. Take flight
To “take flight” means to experience substantial growth or success, similar to a bird soaring through the sky. It is often used to describe a business or project that is achieving significant progress.
- For example, “The company’s sales took flight after the new marketing campaign.”
- A person might say, “I’m excited to see this project take flight and make a real impact.”
- In discussing a successful startup, someone might say, “They took flight and became a major player in the industry.”
44. Multiply
To “multiply” means to grow or increase at an exponential rate. It is often used to describe rapid and significant growth in various contexts.
- For instance, “The company’s profits multiplied after the merger.”
- A person might say, “We need to find a way to multiply our customer base.”
- In discussing a successful marketing campaign, someone might say, “It really helped our brand multiply its reach.”
45. Rocket fuel
“Rocket fuel” refers to something that provides a significant boost or catalyst for growth. It is often used metaphorically to describe a factor or element that propels rapid progress.
- For example, “The new partnership acted as rocket fuel for the company’s expansion.”
- A person might say, “We need to find our own rocket fuel to accelerate our growth.”
- In discussing a successful product launch, someone might say, “The positive reviews were like rocket fuel for our sales.”
46. Shoot up
This slang phrase is often used to describe a situation or entity that is experiencing a sudden and significant increase in growth or success.
- For example, “After the release of their new product, the company’s stock price shot up.”
- In a discussion about a popular social media platform, someone might say, “It started as a small app, but it really shot up in popularity.”
- An entrepreneur might say, “I’m hoping my business will shoot up after implementing these new marketing strategies.”
47. Blossom and bloom
This phrase is used to describe the process of growth and development, particularly in a positive and successful manner.
- For instance, “After years of hard work, her career finally blossomed and bloomed.”
- In a conversation about a startup company, someone might say, “They started with just a small idea, but now they’re blossoming and blooming into a major player in the industry.”
- A gardener might say, “With the right care and attention, any plant can blossom and bloom beautifully.”
48. Boom and bust
This slang phrase is often used to describe a cycle of economic or business growth, followed by a sudden downturn or collapse.
- For example, “The real estate market experienced a boom and bust in the early 2000s.”
- In a discussion about the technology industry, someone might say, “Many startups go through a boom and bust cycle as they try to find their footing.”
- An economist might explain, “Boom and bust cycles are a natural part of the economic cycle.”
49. Snowball effect
This phrase is used to describe a situation where something starts small and gradually grows or increases in size or impact over time.
- For instance, “Her small business started with just a few customers, but it quickly grew through the snowball effect.”
- In a conversation about a viral video, someone might say, “It started with just a few views, but then it started to gain momentum through the snowball effect.”
- A financial advisor might explain, “Investing early can have a snowball effect, as your money grows and compounds over time.”
50. Rise and grind
This phrase is often used to encourage and motivate individuals to work hard and put in the effort to achieve growth and success.
- For example, “Every morning, he wakes up early, ready to rise and grind.”
- In a discussion about entrepreneurship, someone might say, “Success doesn’t come easy. You have to rise and grind every day.”
- A coach might motivate their team by saying, “It’s time to rise and grind, and give it your all on the field.”
51. Shine
To shine means to excel or perform exceptionally well in a particular area. It is often used to describe someone who stands out or achieves great success.
- For example, a coach might say, “She really shined in the game and led the team to victory.”
- In a job interview, a candidate might highlight their accomplishments by saying, “I’ve consistently shined in my previous roles, exceeding sales targets.”
- A teacher might praise a student by saying, “Your hard work and dedication have allowed you to shine in this class.”
52. Evolve
To evolve means to adapt and change over time, often in a positive or progressive way. It refers to the process of development and improvement.
- For instance, a company might say, “We constantly evolve to meet the changing needs of our customers.”
- In a personal growth context, someone might say, “I’ve evolved so much since I started practicing mindfulness.”
- A biologist might explain, “Organisms evolve through genetic mutations and natural selection.”
53. Propel
To propel means to drive forward or push something or someone in a particular direction. It is often used metaphorically to describe actions that lead to progress or advancement.
- For example, a motivational speaker might say, “Believe in yourself and let that belief propel you towards your goals.”
- In a sports context, a coach might say, “His speed and agility propelled him to victory.”
- A business leader might explain, “Innovation and creativity are essential to propel the company forward.”
54. Amp up
To amp up means to increase the intensity, excitement, or impact of something. It is often used to describe actions that make something more powerful or energetic.
- For instance, a DJ might say, “Let’s amp up the party with some high-energy music.”
- In a workout class, an instructor might encourage the participants by saying, “Let’s amp up the intensity and push ourselves to the next level.”
- A chef might say, “Adding some spices will amp up the flavor of this dish.”
55. Emerge
To emerge means to come to light or become visible or known. It is often used to describe the process of something becoming apparent or noticeable.
- For example, a new talent might emerge in the music industry and gain popularity.
- In a scientific discovery, new evidence might emerge that supports a hypothesis.
- A leader might say, “During challenging times, true leaders emerge and guide their teams to success.”
56. Elevate
To elevate means to increase or improve something, especially in terms of status, importance, or quality. In the context of growth, it refers to taking oneself or one’s skills to a higher level.
- For example, “I want to elevate my career by taking on more challenging projects.”
- A motivational speaker might say, “Elevate your mindset and believe in your potential.”
- In a business context, someone might say, “We need to elevate our customer service to stand out from competitors.”