In a world full of make-believe and imagination, we all need some slang to describe things that aren’t quite real. Whether it’s a fictional character, an imaginary place, or a made-up scenario, there’s a whole lexicon out there to help us navigate the realm of the unreal. Join us as we uncover the top slang for not real and add some whimsy to your vocabulary. Get ready to impress your friends with these fun and fantastical phrases!
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1. Lit
This term is used to describe something that is exciting, cool, or impressive. It can be used to express enthusiasm or approval.
- For example, “That party last night was lit!”
- A person might say, “This new song is so lit!”
- Another might exclaim, “The concert was lit, the crowd was going crazy!”
2. Cray-cray
This slang term is used to describe something that is extremely wild, outrageous, or unbelievable. It is a playful way to emphasize the level of craziness.
- For instance, “The party last night was cray-cray!”
- A person might exclaim, “That roller coaster ride was cray-cray!”
- Another might say, “The ending of that movie was so cray-cray, I didn’t see it coming!”
3. The struggle is real
This phrase is used humorously to acknowledge and emphasize a challenging or frustrating situation that someone is experiencing.
- For example, “I can’t find my keys anywhere, the struggle is real.”
- A person might say, “Trying to wake up early in the morning is a struggle, the struggle is real.”
- Another might exclaim, “Having to choose between pizza and tacos for dinner, the struggle is real!”
4. Oh, snap!
This phrase is used to express surprise, excitement, or astonishment. It is often used in response to a sudden or unexpected event.
- For instance, “Oh, snap! I just won the lottery!”
- A person might exclaim, “Oh, snap! Did you see that amazing goal?”
- Another might say, “Oh, snap! I can’t believe I aced the test!”
5. Beat feet
This slang term is used to describe the act of leaving a place in a hurry or running away from a situation.
- For example, “When the police arrived, the suspect beat feet.”
- A person might say, “I heard a loud noise and beat feet out of there.”
- Another might explain, “I didn’t want to get caught, so I beat feet as fast as I could.”
6. Cruisin’ for a bruisin’
This phrase is used to describe someone who is intentionally provoking or looking for a fight or physical altercation. It implies that if the person continues their behavior, they are likely to end up with bruises.
- For example, “If you keep insulting him, you’re cruisin’ for a bruisin’.”
- A parent might warn their child, “Don’t mess with those kids, or you’ll be cruisin’ for a bruisin’.”
7. Made in the shade
This phrase is used to indicate that everything is going smoothly or perfectly. It suggests that the person or situation is in a favorable position or situation.
- For instance, “With all the preparations done, we’re made in the shade.”
- A person might say, “I finished my work early, so now I’m made in the shade.”
- Another might exclaim, “I aced the exam! Made in the shade!”
8. Burn rubber
This phrase is used to describe the act of accelerating a vehicle quickly, causing the tires to spin and leave skid marks on the road. It implies a sense of excitement or urgency.
- For example, “He stepped on the gas and burned rubber as he sped away.”
- A person might say, “I was late for work, so I had to burn rubber to get there on time.”
- Another might boast, “I have a powerful car that can burn rubber with ease.”
9. Pad
This term is slang for a person’s home or living space. It can refer to an apartment, house, or any place where someone resides.
- For instance, “I’m heading back to my pad after work.”
- A person might say, “I just moved into a new pad in the city.”
- Another might ask, “Want to come over to my pad and watch a movie?”
10. Bail
This slang term is used to describe the act of leaving a situation or abandoning plans. It implies a sudden departure or escape.
- For example, “I couldn’t stand the party, so I bailed early.”
- A person might say, “I’m tired, so I think I’m going to bail on going out tonight.”
- Another might explain, “I had to bail on the project because I got too busy with other commitments.”
11. Ditch
To abandon or leave something or someone behind. “Ditch” is often used to describe leaving a location or getting rid of something.
- For example, a friend might say, “Let’s ditch this party and go somewhere else.”
- A person might say, “I ditched my old phone and got a new one.”
- In a conversation about skipping school, someone might say, “I used to ditch class all the time.”
12. Busted
To be caught or discovered doing something wrong or illegal. “Busted” is often used to describe being caught in the act or facing consequences for one’s actions.
- For instance, a person might say, “I got busted for shoplifting.”
- In a discussion about breaking the rules, someone might say, “I always get nervous that I’ll get busted.”
- A person might reminisce, “I remember the time I got busted sneaking out of the house.”
13. Freebie
Something that is given away for free, often as a promotional item or bonus. “Freebie” is often used to describe something obtained without having to pay for it.
- For example, a person might say, “I got a freebie at the conference.”
- In a conversation about promotions, someone might say, “They’re offering a freebie with every purchase.”
- A friend might say, “I have some extra freebies from the event. Do you want one?”
14. Lemon
A term used to describe something that is of poor quality or not functioning properly. “Lemon” is often used to describe a faulty or unreliable item.
- For instance, a person might say, “I bought a car, but it turned out to be a lemon.”
- In a discussion about electronics, someone might say, “I’ve had bad luck with lemons.”
- A friend might warn, “Don’t buy that brand. They’re known for producing lemons.”
15. Shades
A slang term for sunglasses, which are worn to protect the eyes from the sun or for fashion purposes. “Shades” is often used to refer to sunglasses in a casual or cool manner.
- For example, someone might say, “I left my shades at home.”
- In a conversation about summer fashion, a person might say, “I need to buy a new pair of shades.”
- A friend might compliment, “Those are some stylish shades you’re wearing.”
16. Shotgun
In slang, “shotgun” is used to claim the front passenger seat of a car. The term comes from the idea of calling “shotgun” to secure the best seat, just like shooting a shotgun to claim something. – For example, “I called shotgun, so I get to sit in the front!” – A group of friends might compete by saying, “Shotgun the front seat!” – When someone tries to claim the front seat after you, you might say, “Sorry, I already called shotgun.”
17. In no time
This phrase is used to indicate that something will happen or be done quickly. It implies that there will be no delay or waiting involved. – For instance, “I’ll finish this task in no time!” – If someone asks when you’ll be ready, you might respond, “I’ll be ready in no time.” – When a friend promises to arrive soon, they might say, “I’ll be there in no time.”
18. Buck
In slang, “buck” is a term used to refer to a dollar. The origin of this usage is uncertain, but it likely comes from early American frontier days when deerskin was used as a form of currency. – For example, “I’ll give you five bucks for that.” – If someone owes you money, you might say, “Hey, can you pay me that ten bucks you owe me?” – When discussing the cost of something, you might say, “It’s only a few bucks.”
19. Rip-off
In slang, a “rip-off” refers to a situation where someone is cheated or deceived, usually in a financial context. It implies that someone has been taken advantage of or treated unfairly. – For instance, “That store charged me twice the regular price for this shirt. What a rip-off!” – If someone tells you about a bad deal they got, you might say, “Wow, that sounds like a rip-off.” – When warning a friend about a dishonest business, you might say, “Be careful, that place is known for rip-offs.”
20. Fake news
In slang, “fake news” refers to false or misleading information that is presented as factual news. The term became popular during the 2016 U.S. presidential election and is often used to describe intentionally deceptive or inaccurate news stories. – For example, “That article spreading false information is just fake news.” – When discussing the spread of misinformation, you might say, “We need to be vigilant against fake news.” – If someone shares a questionable news story, you might ask, “Is this real news or just fake news?”
21. Phony
This term refers to something or someone that is not genuine or authentic. It is often used to describe something that is counterfeit or fraudulent.
- For example, someone might say, “That designer handbag is a phony.”
- In a conversation about a dishonest person, one might say, “He’s such a phony, always pretending to be someone he’s not.”
- A person might warn, “Be careful of online scams, there are a lot of phonies out there.”
22. Bogus
This slang term is used to describe something that is not real or genuine. It is often used to indicate that something is fake, counterfeit, or deceptive.
- For instance, someone might say, “Those concert tickets turned out to be bogus.”
- In a discussion about a misleading advertisement, one might comment, “That product is a total bogus, it doesn’t deliver what it promises.”
- A person might warn, “Watch out for bogus websites, they might steal your personal information.”
23. Faux
This term is used to describe something that is not real, but is made to look or seem real. It is often used to refer to imitation or artificial materials.
- For example, someone might say, “Her fur coat is faux, it’s not made from real animal fur.”
- In a conversation about home decor, one might comment, “I prefer faux plants, they require less maintenance.”
- A person might discuss fashion trends and say, “Faux leather jackets have become quite popular in recent years.”
24. Sham
This slang term refers to something that is false or deceitful. It is often used to describe a person or thing that is pretending to be something it is not.
- For instance, someone might say, “The website promised a free vacation, but it turned out to be a sham.”
- In a discussion about a fake product, one might comment, “That weight loss supplement is a complete sham, it doesn’t work at all.”
- A person might warn, “Don’t fall for his charm, he’s just a sham pretending to be a nice guy.”
25. Hoax
This term is used to describe a deliberate deception or trickery. It refers to something that is intended to deceive or mislead others.
- For example, someone might say, “The news article about aliens landing was a complete hoax.”
- In a conversation about a prank, one might comment, “They pulled off a great hoax by making everyone believe the office was haunted.”
- A person might warn, “Be skeptical of online rumors, many of them turn out to be hoaxes.”
26. Fraudulent
Something that is done or made in order to deceive or trick someone. It is used to describe something that is not genuine or authentic.
- For example, “He was selling fraudulent designer handbags on the street.”
- A person might say, “I received a fraudulent email claiming I won a lottery.”
- In a legal context, someone might be accused of “engaging in fraudulent activities.”
27. Counterfeit
An imitation or replica of something, usually made with the intention of deceiving someone into believing it is genuine.
- For instance, “He was arrested for selling counterfeit money.”
- A person might say, “I bought a counterfeit Rolex watch.”
- In a discussion about counterfeit goods, someone might argue, “Counterfeit products harm legitimate businesses and the economy.”
28. Unreal
Used to describe something that is not genuine or not based on reality.
- For example, “His story about meeting aliens sounds unreal.”
- A person might say, “The special effects in that movie were so unreal.”
- In a conversation about a bizarre event, someone might comment, “That’s unreal! I can’t believe that happened.”
29. Pretend
To act as if something is true or real, even though it is not.
- For instance, “The children were pretending to be superheroes.”
- A person might say, “Let’s pretend we’re on a tropical island.”
- In a discussion about acting, someone might comment, “She’s a talented actress who can pretend to be anyone.”
30. Fabricated
Something that is created or invented, usually with the intention of deceiving or misleading others.
- For example, “The witness admitted to giving a fabricated statement.”
- A person might say, “I can’t believe he fabricated such an elaborate story.”
- In a discussion about journalism, someone might argue, “Fabricated news stories undermine the credibility of the media.”
31. Fictitious
This term refers to something that is imaginary or invented, rather than being based on reality.
- For example, in a novel, the author might create a fictitious character with extraordinary abilities.
- In a movie, a fictitious city might be depicted as the setting for the story.
- A person might say, “That story you told is completely fictitious!”
32. Illusory
This word describes something that appears real or true but is actually deceptive or misleading.
- For instance, an optical illusion creates an illusory image that tricks the viewer’s perception.
- A person might say, “Don’t be fooled by his charm, it’s just an illusory act.”
- In a discussion about political promises, someone might argue, “Many campaign promises turn out to be illusory in the end.”
33. Imaginary
This term refers to something that exists only in the imagination or as a product of fantasy.
- For example, a child might have an imaginary friend that they pretend to interact with.
- In a story, a character might embark on an imaginary adventure in a magical land.
- A person might say, “I wish I could live in an imaginary world where everything is perfect.”
34. Make-believe
This word describes something that is not real but is pretended or imagined as if it were.
- For instance, children often engage in make-believe play, pretending to be different characters or in different situations.
- In a theater production, actors create a make-believe world on stage.
- A person might say, “Let’s play make-believe and pretend we’re on a tropical island.”
35. Nonexistent
This term describes something that does not exist or is not real.
- For example, a mythical creature like a unicorn is nonexistent in the real world.
- In a debate about the existence of ghosts, someone might argue that they are nonexistent.
- A person might say, “The evidence for that theory is nonexistent.”
36. Spurious
This term is used to describe something that is not genuine or authentic. It suggests that the thing in question is deceptive or misleading.
- For example, “The spurious claims made by the company were quickly debunked.”
- A person might say, “Don’t believe the spurious rumors going around about that celebrity.”
- In a discussion about a controversial topic, someone might argue, “The evidence presented is spurious and lacks credibility.”
37. Deceptive
This word refers to something that is intended to deceive or trick others. It implies that the thing in question is not what it appears to be.
- For instance, “The company used deceptive marketing tactics to sell their product.”
- A person might warn others, “Be careful of deceptive advertisements that promise quick and easy solutions.”
- In a discussion about politics, someone might accuse a politician of using deceptive tactics to gain support.
38. Inauthentic
This term is used to describe something that lacks authenticity or originality. It suggests that the thing in question is not true to its nature or origin.
- For example, “The inauthentic artwork was quickly identified as a forgery.”
- A person might say, “I prefer to surround myself with authentic people, not those who are inauthentic.”
- In a discussion about cultural appropriation, someone might argue, “Wearing a costume that represents another culture is inauthentic and disrespectful.”
39. Untrue
This word is used to describe something that is not true or accurate. It suggests that the thing in question is false or incorrect.
- For instance, “The rumors about their breakup are untrue; they are still together.”
- A person might say, “Don’t believe everything you read online; much of it is untrue.”
- In a discussion about a controversial event, someone might argue, “The official statement is untrue; there is evidence to prove otherwise.”
40. False
This term is used to describe something that is not true or real. It suggests that the thing in question is deceptive or misleading.
- For example, “The false information spread quickly on social media.”
- A person might say, “His claims of being a millionaire are false; he’s actually in debt.”
- In a discussion about a scientific study, someone might point out, “The conclusion drawn from the data is false; the methodology was flawed.”
41. Invented
This term refers to something that is not real or does not exist. It suggests that the thing in question has been fabricated or created.
- For example, someone might say, “That story is completely invented. It never happened.”
- In a discussion about conspiracy theories, a person might claim, “The idea that aliens built the pyramids is pure invention.”
- A writer might describe a fictional character as “an invented persona with a complex backstory.”
42. Phony-baloney
This slang term is used to describe something or someone that is not genuine or authentic. It implies that the thing being referred to is deceitful or insincere.
- For instance, if someone tells a friend a made-up excuse, the friend might respond, “Don’t give me that phony-baloney story.”
- In a conversation about politics, someone might say, “Politicians often make phony-baloney promises just to get elected.”
- A person might describe a counterfeit product as “phony-baloney merchandise.”
43. Bogus-sauce
This slang term is used to describe something that is not genuine or authentic. It suggests that the thing being referred to is false or counterfeit.
- For example, if someone tries to sell a fake designer handbag, a buyer might say, “I’m not interested in your bogus-sauce merchandise.”
- In a discussion about online scams, someone might warn, “Be careful of websites selling bogus-sauce products.”
- A person might describe a fabricated news story as “bogus-sauce journalism.”
44. Fakety-fake
This slang term is used to emphasize that something is not real or genuine. It is often used to mock or criticize something that is perceived as being inauthentic.
- For instance, if someone sees a poorly made imitation of a famous painting, they might say, “That’s some fakety-fake art.”
- In a conversation about social media influencers, someone might comment, “Their perfect lives on Instagram are all fakety-fake.”
- A person might describe a poorly acted scene in a movie as “fakety-fake acting.”
45. Pseudo
This term is used to describe something or someone that is not genuine or authentic. It suggests that the thing in question is an imitation or a false representation.
- For example, if someone claims to be an expert in a field but lacks the necessary qualifications, they might be referred to as a “pseudo expert.”
- In a discussion about fashion trends, someone might say, “That brand is known for its pseudo luxury.”
- A person might describe a fake diamond as “a piece of pseudo jewelry.”