From Youthful to Refined: Words to Leave Behind in Your 40s

Navigating your 40s can be a time of significant sophistication and self-reflection, but are some phrases keeping you tethered to your younger self? Isn’t it time we embraced a more distinguished vocabulary befitting this new chapter? 

1. “That’s Bangin'”

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Once a way to show enthusiasm, now it might just show your age. Let’s replace it with “excellent” or “superb.”

2. “You Only Live Once”

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Favoured by the youth, this phrase has had its day. Consider the more timeless “carpe diem.”

3. “It’s Lit”

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This one’s burnt out. Try “it’s exciting” or “that’s fantastic” for a change.

4. “I Can’t Even”

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Let’s opt for clarity in our 40s. Describe what’s bothering you instead of leaving it vague.

5. “I’m Too Old for This”

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Talking about age can be self-defeating. Embrace new experiences with “let’s give it a go.”

6. “Turnt Up”

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Time to turn down the youth slang. Express enthusiasm with “I’m looking forward to this.”

7. “Bae”

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Timeless terms of endearment like “darling” or “love” never age. Let’s use those instead.

8. “FOMO”

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Instead of admitting to a “Fear Of Missing Out,” why not take pride in your choices?

9. “Adulting”

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Surely by now, we’re all adept at managing life’s tasks—simply “managing” or “handling responsibilities” will suffice.

10. “Sorry, Not Sorry”

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It’s better to be sincere in your apologies or stand firm in your statements without flippancy.

11. “This Is Everything”

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Let’s be specific about what we’re praising. Try “this is remarkable” or “this is impressive.”

12. “I Literally Can’t”

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If you’re struggling, specify why. It’s more authentic and less dismissive.

13. “Totes”

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Totally have the time to say the entire word now, haven’t we?

14. “Amazeballs”

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Let’s opt for “impressive” or “incredible,” which are undoubtedly more grown-up.

15. “On Fleek”

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Things might still be on point, but let’s say “perfectly done” or “spot on” instead.

16. “No Worries, If Not”

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Be more assertive. If you’re okay with outcomes, a simple “okay” will do.

17. “Hangry”

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Just say you’re very hungry. It sounds much less like an excuse for poor mood.

18. “Throw Shade”

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Let’s articulate our critiques clearly and maturely.

19. “It Me”

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You’ve had decades to articulate your identity. Use “that’s like me” or “I can relate.”

20. “Can’t Even Deal”

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Instead, explain what aspect of the situation is overwhelming. Specificity reflects wisdom.

21. “Killing It”

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Perhaps now we’re simply “achieving great success” or “excelling.”

22. “Squad Goals”

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Focus on personal relationships rather than group ideals.

23. “Snatched”

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Straightforward compliments like “you look fantastic” are timeless and respectful.

24. “Spill the Tea”

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Opt for “share the news” or “let’s discuss the details” — it’s straightforward and less colloquial.

25. “Bye, Felicia”

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Instead of dismissing people or ideas, offer a genuine “goodbye” or “take care.”

Choosing Words Wisely

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As we navigate our forties, the phrases we choose can significantly reflect our maturity and the respect we command. Embracing a more refined lexicon isn’t about losing touch with the times; it’s about evolving our dialogue to suit our seasoned perspectives.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ivan Marc.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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