Top 58 Slang For Serious – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to serious conversations, sometimes using the right slang can make all the difference. Whether you’re trying to sound more knowledgeable or simply want to stay up-to-date with the latest language trends, we’ve got you covered. In this listicle, we’ve gathered the top slang terms for serious discussions that will not only help you navigate conversations with ease but also add a touch of coolness to your language repertoire. So, get ready to up your slang game and impress everyone with your serious slang skills!

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1. Legit

This term is used to describe something that is genuine, authentic, or true. It can also be used to emphasize the seriousness or importance of a situation.

For example, someone might say, “That new restaurant is legit, the food is amazing!”
In a conversation about a job offer, a person might say, “I got a legit job offer from a reputable company.”
Another person might use the term to emphasize the seriousness of a problem by saying, “This is a legit issue that needs to be addressed.”

2. Real talk

This phrase is used to indicate that what follows is a sincere or serious statement. It is often used to express a genuine opinion or provide straightforward advice.

For instance, someone might say, “Real talk, you need to prioritize your health and take better care of yourself.”
In a discussion about relationships, a person might say, “Real talk, communication is the key to a successful partnership.”
Another person might use the phrase to express agreement and support by saying, “Real talk, I couldn’t agree more with what you just said.”

3. Deadass

This slang term is used to emphasize the seriousness or truthfulness of a statement. It can also be used to express disbelief or surprise.

For example, someone might say, “I’m deadass tired, I need a nap.”
In a conversation about a shocking event, a person might exclaim, “Did you hear? I’m deadass serious, it’s crazy!”
Another person might use the term to express certainty by saying, “I’m deadass sure I left my keys on the table.”

4. No joke

This phrase is used to indicate that what is being said is serious and should not be taken lightly. It can also be used to emphasize the truthfulness or sincerity of a statement.

For instance, someone might say, “That roller coaster is intense, no joke!”
In a conversation about a difficult task, a person might say, “It’s a lot of work, no joke, but it’s worth it.”
Another person might use the phrase to express the seriousness of a situation by saying, “The storm is approaching, no joke, we need to take shelter.”

5. On the real

This phrase is used to emphasize that what is being said is genuine or sincere. It can also be used to express agreement or support for a statement.

For example, someone might say, “On the real, you need to apologize for what you said.”
In a discussion about a controversial topic, a person might say, “On the real, we need to address the underlying issues.”
Another person might use the phrase to express agreement by saying, “On the real, that movie was amazing, I loved it!”

6. For real

This phrase is used to emphasize that something is true or sincere. It is often used to express agreement or affirmation.

For example, if someone says, “I can’t believe she won the lottery,” another person might respond, “For real? That’s amazing!”
In a conversation about plans, someone might say, “I’m thinking of going to the concert tonight,” and the other person might reply, “For real? I’ll join you!”
When discussing a serious issue, someone might say, “We need to address this problem for real and find a solution.”

7. Straight up

This phrase is used to emphasize that what is being said is true, honest, or direct. It is often used to convey sincerity or to emphasize a statement.

For instance, if someone says, “I straight up love pizza,” they are expressing their genuine love for pizza.
In a discussion about opinions, someone might say, “Straight up, that movie was terrible. I couldn’t stand it.”
When expressing agreement, someone might say, “Straight up, you’re right. We need to take action now.”

8. No cap

This phrase is used to indicate that what is being said is true or honest. It is often used to emphasize sincerity or to confirm the truthfulness of a statement.

For example, if someone says, “I just won a million dollars, no cap,” they are asserting that they genuinely won a large sum of money.
In a conversation about experiences, someone might say, “No cap, that was the scariest moment of my life.”
When expressing agreement or support, someone might say, “No cap, you’re absolutely right. We need to take action.”

9. Dead serious

This phrase is used to emphasize that someone is not joking or fooling around. It is often used to convey a high level of seriousness or sincerity.

For instance, if someone says, “I’m dead serious about quitting my job,” they are expressing their genuine intention to leave their current job.
In a discussion about commitments, someone might say, “I’m dead serious about sticking to my diet this time.”
When discussing a serious topic, someone might say, “We need to have a dead serious conversation about the future of our relationship.”

10. All business

This phrase is used to describe someone who is completely focused and serious about a task or situation. It is often used to convey a sense of determination or professionalism.

For example, if someone says, “She walked into the meeting all business,” they are describing how the person appeared serious and focused.
In a discussion about work ethic, someone might say, “When it comes to deadlines, he’s all business. He never misses a deadline.”
When describing someone’s demeanor, someone might say, “He’s all business when it comes to negotiations. He doesn’t mess around.”

11. No games

When someone says “no games,” they mean that they are being serious and not joking around. It is a way to emphasize the seriousness of a situation or conversation.

For example, if someone says, “We need to get this project done on time, no games,” they are emphasizing the importance of completing the project seriously.
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “If you’re looking for someone who’s just going to play games, I’m not the one.”
A boss might tell their employees, “When it comes to safety protocols, there’s no room for games.”

12. Stone-cold

When someone is described as “stone-cold,” it means they are completely serious and not showing any emotions or signs of joking. The term is often used to describe someone’s demeanor or attitude.

For instance, if someone says, “He looked me in the eye and said it with a stone-cold expression,” they are emphasizing the seriousness and lack of emotion in the person’s delivery.
In a conversation about negotiations, someone might say, “You have to maintain a stone-cold poker face to get the best deal.”
A witness might describe a suspect’s behavior as “stone-cold” during a trial.

13. No messing around

When someone says “no messing around,” they mean that they are not fooling around and are being serious. It is a way to emphasize the importance of staying focused and not wasting time.

For example, if a coach says, “We have a big game tomorrow, so no messing around during practice,” they are emphasizing the need for serious and focused preparation.
In a discussion about work ethic, someone might say, “If you want to succeed, you have to show up every day ready to work and no messing around.”
A teacher might warn their students, “This is a difficult assignment, so no messing around. I expect everyone to give their best effort.”

14. No fooling

When someone says “no fooling,” they mean that they are not joking and are being serious. It is a way to emphasize the truthfulness of a statement or the seriousness of a situation.

For instance, if someone says, “I saw a UFO last night, no fooling,” they are emphasizing that they are being serious and not making up a story.
In a conversation about a dangerous situation, someone might say, “This storm is no joke, no fooling around. We need to take it seriously.”
A friend might say, “I heard there’s a surprise party for you tonight, no fooling. You better be ready!”

15. No laughing matter

When someone says “no laughing matter,” they mean that the situation is serious and should not be taken lightly or joked about. It is a way to emphasize the gravity or importance of a situation.

For example, if someone says, “Climate change is no laughing matter,” they are emphasizing that it is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
In a discussion about health, someone might say, “Mental illness is no laughing matter. It’s important to seek help and support.”
A parent might tell their child, “Bullying is no laughing matter. It’s important to stand up for yourself and others.”

16. No nonsense

This phrase is used to describe something or someone that is direct, practical, and without any unnecessary extras or distractions.

For example, a manager might say, “We need to have a no-nonsense approach to this project and focus on the essential tasks.”
In a conversation about a serious topic, someone might say, “Let’s have a no-nonsense discussion and get to the heart of the matter.”
A person describing their work style might say, “I like to keep things no-nonsense and efficient to maximize productivity.”

17. No frills

This phrase refers to something that is plain and simple, without any extra decorations, features, or unnecessary elements.

For instance, a hotel might advertise a “no-frills” room that offers basic amenities without any luxurious extras.
In a discussion about fashion, someone might say, “I prefer a no-frills style with clean lines and minimal embellishments.”
A person describing their cooking might say, “I like to stick to no-frills recipes that focus on the natural flavors of the ingredients.”

18. No fluff

This phrase is used to describe something that is concise, direct, and does not contain any unnecessary or excessive details or embellishments.

For example, a writer might say, “I like to keep my articles no-fluff and get straight to the point.”
In a conversation about a business presentation, someone might say, “Let’s remove any fluff from the slides and focus on the key information.”
A person describing their communication style might say, “I appreciate no-fluff emails that provide clear instructions without any unnecessary details.”

19. No BS

This phrase is used to indicate that someone is being straightforward, honest, and not trying to deceive or manipulate.

For instance, a person might say, “I appreciate your no-BS approach to giving feedback.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “We need politicians who are willing to speak the truth and cut through the BS.”
A person describing their personal values might say, “I try to live my life with no BS and always be honest with myself and others.”

20. No kidding

This phrase is used to emphasize that someone is being serious and not joking or exaggerating.

For example, if someone says, “I saw a bear on my way to work,” and you respond with “No kidding?!” it means you are genuinely surprised and believe their statement.
In a conversation about a difficult situation, someone might say, “We’re in a no-kidding crisis and need to take immediate action.”
A person describing their intentions might say, “I’m not joking, I have a no-kidding plan to start my own business.”

21. No messing about

This phrase is used to indicate that someone is being serious and not fooling around. It implies that there is no room for playful or lighthearted behavior.

For example, a teacher might say to their students, “We have a lot of work to do today, so no messing about.”
In a business meeting, a manager might say, “Let’s get down to business and no messing about.”
A parent might tell their child, “This is a serious matter, so no messing about.”

22. No tomfoolery

This phrase is used to convey that there should be no silly or foolish behavior. It implies that the situation requires seriousness and focus.

For instance, a coach might say to their team, “We need to win this game, so no tomfoolery on the field.”
In a professional setting, a supervisor might say, “We have an important deadline to meet, so no tomfoolery in the office.”
A teacher might warn their students, “This is an exam, so no tomfoolery allowed.”

23. No playing games

This phrase is used to indicate that someone should stop engaging in playful or non-serious behavior. It implies that the situation requires seriousness and attention.

For example, a boss might say to their employee, “We have a deadline to meet, so no playing games.”
In a relationship discussion, one partner might say, “I want to have an honest conversation, so no playing games.”
A teacher might tell their students, “This is a test, so no playing games. Focus and do your best.”

24. No horsing around

This phrase is used to convey that someone should stop engaging in playful or mischievous behavior. It implies that the situation requires seriousness and concentration.

For instance, a parent might say to their children, “We’re at a funeral, so no horsing around.”
In a military setting, a sergeant might say, “We’re on a mission, so no horsing around. Stay focused.”
A teacher might warn their students, “This is a lab experiment, so no horsing around with the equipment.”

25. Stone-faced

This term is used to describe someone who is showing no emotion or expression on their face. It implies a serious demeanor and lack of visible emotions.

For example, a witness in court might be described as “stone-faced” while giving their testimony.
In a tense negotiation, one party might remain “stone-faced” to avoid revealing their true feelings.
A poker player might keep a “stone-faced” expression to bluff their opponents.

26. Straight-faced

This term refers to maintaining a serious or solemn expression, often without showing any signs of amusement or emotion. It implies that someone is not joking or fooling around.

For example, during a tense negotiation, a person might say, “Keep a straight face and don’t let them see any weakness.”
In a comedy show, a performer might say, “I couldn’t keep a straight face during that hilarious skit.”
A teacher might instruct their students, “When giving a presentation, remember to maintain a straight face to appear professional and confident.”

27. No funny business

This phrase is used to indicate that there should be no fooling around or engaging in any humorous or playful activities. It emphasizes the need for seriousness and focus.

For instance, a boss might say to their employees, “We have a deadline to meet, so no funny business.”
In a competitive sports match, a coach might warn their team, “No funny business on the field. We need to give our best.”
A parent might tell their child, “You need to finish your homework now. No funny business.”

28. No monkey business

This expression is similar to “no funny business” and is used to convey the message that there should be no foolish or mischievous behavior. It implies the need for seriousness and focus.

For example, a teacher might say to their students, “Class, we have an important test tomorrow. No monkey business.”
In a business meeting, a manager might state, “Let’s get down to business and focus on the task at hand. No monkey business.”
A supervisor might warn their employees, “I expect everyone to be on time and fully committed to their work. No monkey business.”

29. No shenanigans

This term is another way of saying “no funny business” or “no nonsense.” It implies that there should be no mischievous or playful behavior and emphasizes the need for seriousness.

For instance, a teacher might say to their students, “We have a lot to cover today, so no shenanigans.”
In a military setting, a sergeant might command, “Focus on the mission and no shenanigans.”
A parent might tell their children, “We’re going to a formal event, so no shenanigans. Behave yourselves.”

30. No time for games

This phrase indicates that there is no time or patience for engaging in playful or non-serious activities. It conveys the urgency and seriousness of the situation.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “We’re down by two points with only a minute left. No time for games, let’s give it our all.”
In a work setting, a supervisor might tell their employees, “We have a tight deadline to meet. No time for games, we need to focus and get the job done.”
A parent might warn their child, “We’re running late for the doctor’s appointment. No time for games, let’s go.”

31. No time for nonsense

This phrase is used to indicate that someone is not interested in dealing with or wasting time on unimportant or silly matters.

For example, if someone is trying to have a serious conversation and another person starts joking around, they might say, “I have no time for nonsense right now.”
In a work setting, a manager might say, “We need to focus on the task at hand. There’s no time for nonsense.”
If someone is trying to accomplish a goal and others are distracting them, they might say, “I’m sorry, but I have no time for nonsense. I need to stay focused.”

32. No time for tomfoolery

Similar to “no time for nonsense,” this phrase expresses a lack of patience or tolerance for silly or mischievous actions.

For instance, if someone is trying to study and their friends are being disruptive, they might say, “I have no time for tomfoolery right now.”
In a professional setting, a supervisor might say, “We need to maintain a professional atmosphere. There’s no time for tomfoolery.”
If someone is trying to accomplish a serious task and others are being distracting, they might say, “I’m sorry, but I have no time for tomfoolery. I need to stay focused.”

33. No time for funny business

This phrase indicates a serious or no-nonsense attitude, emphasizing the need for others to be serious and not engage in playful or joking behavior.

For example, if someone is giving an important presentation and others are not taking it seriously, they might say, “I have no time for funny business. This is a serious matter.”
In a business meeting, a manager might say, “Let’s get down to business. There’s no time for funny business.”
If someone is trying to complete a task and others are being distracting, they might say, “I’m sorry, but I have no time for funny business. I need to focus.”

34. No time for monkey business

Similar to “no time for funny business,” this phrase conveys a serious or no-nonsense attitude, indicating that there is no tolerance for playful or mischievous actions.

For instance, if someone is trying to have a serious conversation and others are being disruptive, they might say, “I have no time for monkey business right now.”
In a classroom, a teacher might say, “We need to focus on the lesson. There’s no time for monkey business.”
If someone is trying to accomplish a task and others are being distracting, they might say, “I’m sorry, but I have no time for monkey business. I need to stay focused.”

35. Stone cold

This phrase describes someone who is completely serious and shows no emotion or warmth in their demeanor.

For example, if someone is telling a serious story without any emotion, they might be described as “stone cold.”
In a tense situation, someone might say, “Stay stone cold. We need to handle this seriously.”
If someone is being unresponsive or unemotional, they might be described as “stone cold.”

36. No fooling around

This phrase is used to emphasize that someone should not engage in playful or unserious behavior. It implies that the situation or task at hand requires focus and dedication.

For example, a teacher might tell their students, “We have a lot of material to cover today, so no fooling around.”
A coach might say to their team, “We need to win this game, so no fooling around on the field.”
In a work setting, a boss might warn their employees, “We have a deadline to meet, so no fooling around.”

37. No playing around

Similar to “no fooling around,” this phrase is used to convey the message that someone should not engage in playful or unserious behavior. It emphasizes the need for seriousness and focus in a given situation.

For instance, a parent might tell their child, “We need to get ready for school, so no playing around.”
A supervisor might say to their team, “We have an important client meeting, so no playing around in the office.”
In a group project, a team member might remind their peers, “We have a deadline to meet, so no playing around.”

38. No messing

This phrase is used to indicate that someone should not engage in any form of messing around or joking. It implies that the situation requires seriousness and that there is no room for playful or unserious behavior.

For example, a teacher might say to their students, “This is a test, so no messing around.”
A coach might tell their team, “We are in the final minutes of the game, so no messing around on the field.”
In a professional setting, a manager might warn their employees, “We have an important client meeting, so no messing around.”

39. No mucking about

This phrase is used to express the need for seriousness and focus in a given situation. It conveys the message that there should be no wasting time or engaging in unproductive or unserious behavior.

For instance, a parent might tell their child, “We need to finish our chores, so no mucking about.”
A team leader might say to their colleagues, “We have a tight deadline, so no mucking about in the office.”
In a group project, a member might remind their peers, “We need to get this done, so no mucking about.”

40. No messing with

This phrase is used to warn someone against engaging in any form of messing or interfering with a particular person or thing. It conveys the message that the person or thing should be taken seriously and not be tampered with.

For example, a parent might warn their child, “That’s a dangerous animal, so no messing with it.”
A supervisor might say to their employees, “That machine is delicate, so no messing with it without proper training.”
In a social setting, someone might caution their friend, “He’s a serious person, so no messing with him.”

41. No messing up

This phrase is used to emphasize the importance of not making any errors or mistakes in a particular situation. It implies that there is no room for error or failure.

For example, a coach might tell their team before a game, “No messing up today, we need to win.”
In a work setting, a supervisor might say to their employees, “We have a tight deadline, so no messing up this project.”
A teacher might warn their students before an exam, “Study hard and no messing up on the test.”

42. No messing about with

This phrase is used to convey that someone should not engage in any frivolous or unnecessary activities with a particular thing or situation. It implies that the matter at hand should be taken seriously.

For instance, a parent might tell their child, “No messing about with the electrical outlets, it’s dangerous.”
In a professional setting, a supervisor might instruct their team, “No messing about with the company’s confidential information.”
A teacher might warn their students, “No messing about with the lab equipment, it’s expensive and delicate.”

43. No messing around with

This phrase has a similar meaning to “no messing about with” and is used to emphasize that someone should not engage in any playful or unproductive activities with a particular thing or situation. It implies that the matter at hand should be treated seriously.

For example, a coach might tell their team, “No messing around with the game plan, we need to focus.”
In a business context, a manager might say to their employees, “No messing around with the budget, we need to stick to the plan.”
A teacher might remind their students, “No messing around with the classroom rules, they are there for a reason.”

44. No clowning around

This phrase is used to indicate that someone should not engage in any playful or comedic behavior in a particular situation. It implies that a serious and focused attitude is required.

For instance, a parent might say to their child, “No clowning around at your sister’s graduation, it’s a solemn event.”
In a professional setting, a supervisor might tell their employees, “No clowning around during the meeting, we have important matters to discuss.”
A teacher might warn their students, “No clowning around in the classroom, we are here to learn.”

45. No dilly-dallying

This phrase is used to convey that someone should not engage in any unnecessary or time-wasting activities. It implies that action or progress should be made promptly.

For example, a coach might tell their team, “No dilly-dallying during practice, we have a lot to cover.”
In a work setting, a supervisor might say to their employees, “No dilly-dallying on this project, we have a deadline to meet.”
A teacher might remind their students, “No dilly-dallying between classes, we need to be on time.”

46. No dawdling

This phrase is used to tell someone to not waste time or to hurry up and get to work or complete a task. It is often used in a serious or authoritative tone.

For example, a teacher might say, “No dawdling, we have a lot to cover in this lesson.”
A supervisor might tell their employees, “No dawdling, we have a deadline to meet.”
A parent might say to their child, “No dawdling, we need to leave for school soon.”

47. No slacking off

This phrase is used to tell someone to stop being lazy or to stop engaging in unproductive activities. It is often used in a serious or disciplinary context.

For instance, a coach might tell their team, “No slacking off during practice, we have a big game coming up.”
A boss might warn their employees, “No slacking off, we have a lot of work to do.”
A teacher might remind their students, “No slacking off, we have an important exam next week.”

48. No goofing off

This phrase is used to tell someone to stop fooling around or being silly and to focus on the task at hand. It is often used in a serious or scolding tone.

For example, a teacher might say, “No goofing off, we need to finish this project.”
A supervisor might warn their employees, “No goofing off, we have a client meeting in an hour.”
A parent might tell their child, “No goofing off, it’s time to do your homework.”

49. No time-wasting

This phrase is used to tell someone to stop wasting time or being inefficient and to use their time more productively. It is often used in a serious or directive manner.

For instance, a manager might say, “No time-wasting, we have a tight deadline to meet.”
A teacher might remind their students, “No time-wasting, we have a lot of material to cover.”
A coach might tell their team, “No time-wasting, we need to focus on our training.”

50. No dallying

This phrase is used to tell someone to stop wasting time or delaying and to get on with the task at hand. It is often used in a serious or impatient tone.

For example, a supervisor might say, “No dallying, we have a meeting in five minutes.”
A parent might tell their child, “No dallying, we need to leave for the appointment.”
A teacher might remind their students, “No dallying, we have a lot to cover in this lesson.”

51. No lollygagging

This phrase means to not waste time or dawdle. It is often used to emphasize the importance of staying focused and getting things done.

For example, a coach might tell their team, “No lollygagging during practice. We have a big game coming up.”
A teacher might say to their students, “We need to finish this project on time, so no lollygagging.”
In a work setting, a supervisor might remind their employees, “We have a deadline to meet, so no lollygagging.”

52. No screwing around

This phrase means to not engage in idle or unproductive activities. It is often used to convey a sense of seriousness and the need to focus on the task at hand.

For instance, a parent might tell their child, “No screwing around. Finish your homework.”
In a professional setting, a manager might say to their team, “We have a lot of work to do, so no screwing around.”
A coach might use this phrase to motivate their players, saying, “If you want to win, no screwing around on the field.”

53. No monkeying around

This phrase means to not engage in playful or silly behavior. It is often used to emphasize the need for seriousness and to discourage distractions.

For example, a teacher might say to their students, “No monkeying around. We have a test to take.”
In a workplace, a supervisor might remind their employees, “We need to meet our deadlines, so no monkeying around.”
A coach might use this phrase to keep their team focused, saying, “No monkeying around during practice. We need to improve.”

54. No fooling about

This phrase means to not engage in frivolous or unproductive activities. It is often used to convey a sense of urgency and the need to stay focused.

For instance, a manager might tell their employees, “No fooling about. We have a deadline to meet.”
A parent might say to their child, “No fooling about. Clean your room.”
In a team setting, a leader might use this phrase to motivate their members, saying, “If we want to succeed, no fooling about. Let’s give it our all.”

55. No playing the fool

This phrase means to not engage in foolish or silly behavior. It is often used to remind someone to be serious and to discourage them from behaving in a playful or unserious manner.

For example, a teacher might say to a student, “No playing the fool. Pay attention in class.”
In a professional setting, a supervisor might remind their employees, “No playing the fool. We have important work to do.”
A coach might use this phrase to motivate their team, saying, “No playing the fool on the field. We need to focus and give it our best.”

56. No clowning about

This phrase is used to indicate that a situation or topic should be taken seriously and not treated lightly or humorously.

For example, if someone is discussing a serious issue, they might say, “Let’s get down to business, no clowning about.”
In a work setting, a manager might say, “This is a serious project, no clowning about.”
When discussing important decisions, someone might say, “We need to consider all the facts and not engage in any clowning about.”

57. No joking around

This phrase is used to emphasize the seriousness of a situation or to request that someone stops engaging in playful or lighthearted behavior.

For instance, if someone is being too playful during a serious conversation, someone might say, “Enough with the joking around, let’s focus.”
In a classroom setting, a teacher might say, “This is an important lesson, no joking around.”
When discussing a sensitive topic, someone might say, “We need to have a serious conversation, no joking around.”

58. No kidding around

This phrase is used to convey that a situation or topic should be treated seriously and not joked about or taken lightly.

For example, if someone is discussing a dangerous situation, they might say, “No kidding around, this is a serious matter.”
In a professional setting, a supervisor might say, “We need to meet our deadlines, no kidding around.”
When discussing a sensitive topic, someone might say, “We need to have a serious discussion, no kidding around.”