When it comes to basic or fundamental things, sometimes using the right slang can make all the difference in how you communicate. In our latest article, we’ve gathered a collection of the most essential and trendy slang words for rudimentary concepts. Whether you’re a language enthusiast or just looking to stay current with the latest lingo, this list is sure to keep you in the loop and ready to impress with your newfound vocabulary!
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1. Basic AF
This phrase is used to describe something or someone as extremely basic or simplistic. The addition of “AF” intensifies the meaning.
- For example, “She’s wearing a plain white t-shirt and jeans, she’s basic AF.”
- In a conversation about fashion trends, someone might say, “Those ripped jeans are so basic AF.”
- A person might comment on a simple recipe, “This avocado toast is basic AF, but it’s so good.”
2. ABC
This term is used to describe someone who is inexperienced or lacks knowledge in a particular area. It suggests that the person’s understanding is superficial or incomplete.
- For instance, in a discussion about computer programming, someone might say, “He’s still struggling with basic coding concepts, he’s ABC.”
- In a conversation about a new hobby, one might say, “I’m just starting out, so I’m ABC when it comes to this.”
- A person might comment on a beginner’s attempt at painting, “Her artwork looks like it’s ABC, but she’s learning.”
3. Noob
This term is used to describe someone who is new to a particular activity, especially in online gaming or internet communities. It can also imply that the person lacks skill or experience.
- For example, in a multiplayer game, someone might say, “Don’t worry, he’s just a noob. He’ll get better.”
- In a discussion about a complex board game, one might say, “I’m a total noob at this, so go easy on me.”
- A person might comment on a beginner’s attempt at playing an instrument, “He’s still a noob on the guitar, but he’s practicing.”
4. Rookie
This term is used to describe someone who is new to a particular activity or field. It often implies that the person lacks experience or skill.
- For instance, in a sports context, someone might say, “He’s a rookie quarterback, so we’ll see how he performs.”
- In a conversation about a new job, one might say, “I’m a rookie in this industry, but I’m eager to learn.”
- A person might comment on a beginner’s attempt at cooking, “She’s still a rookie in the kitchen, but she’s improving.”
5. Elementary
This term is used to describe something as simple or easy to understand. It suggests that the subject matter is at a fundamental level.
- For example, in a math class, someone might say, “These equations are too elementary for me.”
- In a conversation about a puzzle, one might say, “This crossword is pretty elementary, I finished it quickly.”
- A person might comment on a beginner’s attempt at playing chess, “He’s still at an elementary level, but he’s learning strategies.”
6. Low-tech
Refers to technology that is not advanced or sophisticated. It often implies a lack of modern features or capabilities.
- For example, “I prefer using low-tech solutions for everyday tasks.”
- In a discussion about smartphones, someone might say, “I miss the days of low-tech flip phones.”
- A person might describe a basic tool as “low-tech but effective.”
7. Starter pack
Used to describe a set of items or traits that are commonly associated with beginners or newcomers to a specific hobby, lifestyle, or situation.
- For instance, “Here’s a starter pack for anyone interested in hiking.”
- In a discussion about a popular TV show, someone might create a “starter pack” meme with images and phrases related to the show.
- A person might say, “I’m new to gardening, so I need a starter pack with all the necessary tools.”
8. Beginner’s luck
Refers to the phenomenon where someone who is inexperienced or new to a task achieves a favorable outcome purely by chance or luck.
- For example, “I had beginner’s luck during my first poker game and won a significant amount of money.”
- In a conversation about golf, someone might say, “Don’t underestimate beginner’s luck on the course.”
- A person might jokingly attribute their success in a video game to “beginner’s luck.”
9. Crayon stage
Used to describe a phase where someone is just starting to learn or understand a particular skill or concept.
- For instance, “In the crayon stage of drawing, children often focus on basic shapes and colors.”
- In a discussion about language learning, someone might say, “I’m still in the crayon stage of learning French.”
- A person might describe their early attempts at playing a musical instrument as “crayon stage level.”
10. ABCs
Refers to the foundational knowledge or skills needed to understand or engage in a particular field or activity.
- For example, “Before you can write complex code, you need to learn the ABCs of programming.”
- In a conversation about cooking, someone might say, “Mastering the ABCs of cooking involves learning basic techniques and ingredients.”
- A person might advise someone starting a fitness journey to focus on the “ABCs of exercise” like proper form and consistency.
11. 101
Derived from the introductory level of a subject or course, “101” is often used to refer to the fundamental or basic knowledge of something.
- For example, “I need a 101 on coding before I can start building my website.”
- In a discussion about cooking, someone might ask, “Can you give me a quick 101 on how to make a basic pasta sauce?”
- A person might say, “I’m still learning the 101 of investing in the stock market.”
12. Ground zero
Originally used to describe the point on the Earth’s surface directly below or above an explosion, “ground zero” has evolved to mean the starting point or the initial stage of something.
- For instance, in a project meeting, someone might say, “Let’s go back to ground zero and reassess our strategy.”
- In a conversation about a new business venture, someone might mention, “We’re starting from ground zero and building everything from scratch.”
- A person reflecting on a personal journey might say, “I hit ground zero after my divorce, but it was the starting point for my personal growth.”
13. N00b
Derived from “newbie,” “n00b” is an internet slang term used to describe someone who is new or inexperienced in a particular activity or community.
- For example, in a gaming context, someone might say, “Don’t worry, we were all n00bs at some point.”
- In a discussion about a new hobby, someone might ask, “Any tips for a n00b starting out?”
- A person might say, “I felt like such a n00b when I first started learning how to play the guitar.”
14. 123
Derived from the sequence of numbers, “123” is often used to refer to something that is simple, straightforward, or easy to understand.
- For instance, in a cooking recipe, someone might say, “Just follow the steps, it’s as easy as 123.”
- In a conversation about learning a new language, someone might mention, “I’m starting with the 123 of vocabulary before diving into grammar.”
- A person might say, “Once you understand the 123 of budgeting, it becomes much easier to manage your finances.”
15. Crude
Used to describe something that is in its early or undeveloped stage, “crude” refers to something that is basic or simplistic in nature.
- For example, in a discussion about a prototype, someone might say, “This is just a crude version of the final product.”
- In a conversation about artwork, someone might mention, “The artist’s early sketches were quite crude, but they laid the foundation for their masterpiece.”
- A person might say, “I have a crude understanding of the subject, but I’m eager to learn more.”
16. Greenhorn
This term refers to someone who is new or inexperienced in a particular field or activity. It is often used to describe someone who lacks knowledge or skill.
- For example, in a sports team, a veteran player might say, “Don’t worry about the greenhorn, I’ll show them the ropes.”
- In a workplace, a supervisor might comment, “We need to provide some training for the new greenhorns.”
- A teacher might say to a student, “Don’t worry if you make mistakes, everyone starts as a greenhorn.”
17. Neophyte
This word is used to describe someone who is new to a particular skill, activity, or field. It emphasizes the person’s lack of experience or knowledge.
- For instance, in a cooking class, the chef might say, “Today, we will focus on techniques for neophytes.”
- In a music lesson, the instructor might say, “This song is perfect for neophyte guitar players.”
- A mentor might advise, “As a neophyte in this industry, it’s important to ask questions and learn from others.”
18. Bare bones
This term refers to something that is very basic or simplistic. It often implies that there are no additional features or embellishments.
- For example, when describing a computer program, a user might say, “The software has a bare bones interface, but it gets the job done.”
- In a budget hotel, a guest might comment, “The room was clean, but it was definitely bare bones.”
- A teacher might say to a student, “Focus on the bare bones of the topic before diving into the details.”
19. No-frills
This phrase describes something that is basic and without any extra features or unnecessary embellishments. It emphasizes a minimalist approach.
- For instance, when describing a car, a reviewer might say, “The no-frills design focuses on functionality rather than luxury.”
- In a restaurant, a customer might say, “I just want a no-frills meal, nothing fancy.”
- A traveler might prefer a no-frills airline for short flights, saying, “I don’t need any extra amenities, just a simple and affordable ticket.”
20. Primitive
This word describes something that is very simple or basic, often implying a lack of sophistication or advancement.
- For example, when discussing early human civilizations, an archaeologist might say, “The tools they used were primitive compared to what we have today.”
- In technology, a person might say, “This device has a primitive interface, but it still gets the job done.”
- A designer might describe a minimalist artwork as “embracing a primitive aesthetic.”
21. Vanilla
This term is used to describe something that is plain, ordinary, or lacking in excitement or originality.
- For example, someone might say, “His taste in music is so vanilla, he only listens to pop songs.”
- In a discussion about fashion, someone might comment, “That outfit is a bit too vanilla for my taste.”
- A person describing a boring party might say, “The party was so vanilla, there was nothing interesting happening.”