Stable: Meaning explained in youth language

The meaning of “stable” is quite clear among young people. For the older generation, however, the term has a different connotation. In recent years, the expression has replaced the youth word “nice”.

Stable: This is the meaning behind the youth word

For the older generation, stable means that something is solidly built, resilient and durable. Among young people, however, the term has another meaning.

• Stable in youth language means something cool, neat or super. It is usually used in a positive context to praise something or to give someone encouragement.
• If “stable” is meant as a compliment, it can also mean beautiful or pretty.
• However, the term can also be a subtle insult, for example when it is mentioned in connection with a person being overweight.
• Since 2020, “stable” has made its way into youth language, replacing the previous trend word “nice”. Other youth words with similar meanings are, for example, “lit” or “fly”.

How to use the term “stable” correctly

“Stable” can be meant positively or negatively – but mostly the word is used as a compliment and only in exceptional cases as a pejorative.

• Use the term as praise, say or write to someone for example: “Your Instagram photo is really solid!”
• “Stay stable” can also be used instead of “Don’t let it get you down” or “Follow through. “
• “But your ex is also quite solidly built” would allude to a high body weight and is likely to be taken rather negatively.